Development News for East Bridgewater, Massachusetts

Planning Board Encourages Participation in 'TRACK' Meetings for Project Streamlining

The planning board discussed the "TRACK" (Town Regulatory and Administrative Committee) meetings, which are informal sessions held on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 9:00 a.m. These meetings allow developers and project proponents to present their projects to representatives from various town departments and boards (Planning, Zoning, Board of Health, etc.) to receive early feedback and streamline the approval process. This initiative was implemented to help project proponents navigate town regulations more effectively and avoid confusion. The board is seeking members to attend these TRACK meetings to represent the planning board and report back, as well as individuals willing to learn how to operate the presentation screens for meetings. The next TRACK meeting mentioned is on the 17th, featuring Josephino presenting a proposal for the old 106 Motors property.

Planning Board Approves Covenant Release for River Road Extension Property Owner

The planning board is considering a proposal to release a covenant on a property at 34 River Road Extension (Parcel 2822), which was part of the River Road Extension subdivision approved in 2023. The current owner of this parcel is selling their home and requested the release, as the covenant, intended for road construction for the subdivision lot, was burdening their existing residential property title. The board prepared a release specifically for this house lot, with the understanding that any future development of the subdivision lot would still be subject to the covenant's road standards. The motion to approve the release was made by Mr. Hager and seconded by Mrs. Phillips, passing unanimously with one abstention.

Covenant Released for Existing Residence on River Road Extension Property

The planning board considered a request to release a covenant affecting a specific parcel of land (Parcel 2822) related to the River Road Extension subdivision. The original subdivision approval in 2023 was for a single lot on the easterly side of River Road Extension. The current owner of the adjacent residence (Parcel 2822, 34 River Road Extension) is selling his home and sought a release of the covenant as it pertains to his residential lot, which he argued should not be burdened by the road construction covenant meant for the subdivision lot. The board prepared a release for this existing house lot, stipulating that if the property were ever developed, the covenant regarding road standards would still apply. The motion to approve this release was made and seconded, passing with one abstention due to the subdivision nature of the item.

Central Elementary School Project Update: Design, Permitting, and Site Circulation Detailed

The planning board received an update on the Central Elementary School project, with representatives presenting details on the design schedule, permitting status, and site plans. The project is currently at the 60% construction document milestone, with submissions due July 1st. Early site work, including pre-loading, is underway. Bidding for concrete and steel is planned for August, with site package awards in September/October, and final construction document bids in November. Permitting updates included meetings with ConCom and a track meeting with town departments. Stormwater filings are in progress. The presentation also detailed the school's layout, including academic wings, central facilities, and second-floor arrangements, as well as site circulation for vehicles, buses, and staff/parent drop-off/pickup. Renderings of the building's exterior and interior spaces were shown, emphasizing an inviting entrance and functional learning environments. Security measures and door access were discussed, along with the school's multiple entrances for different functions, including a separate entrance for preschool.