Joseph Jannetty reviewed the proposed site plan for the future development of Cordage Park. Several existing structures would remain and be rehabilitated into residential units and commercial space. There will also be some new construction of residential units and commercial space. The entrance would be reconfigured as a boulevard that would provide a view of the marina. If developed under Chapter 40R, there would be approximately 694 residential units. Eighty percent of the units would be two bedrooms with 20 percent of the project as affordable housing units. Some of the smaller buildings along Court Street would be designed to fit in with the existing neighborhood. Parking has been designed. Most of the parking for the new construction would be underneath the building or on the first floor. The site would be open to the community, with three access points; the main entrance off Court Street, Boundary Lane and Hedge Road. A walking path would be constructed and
connection to the bike path would be provided. The proposed plan maximizes the green space and provides pocket parks throughout the site. The MBTA train and Gatra bus could provide services to the residents and surrounding community. The developers will work with the MBTA to increase the number of train trips to the site. A preliminary traffic study has been submitted with a full traffic study to follow within two weeks. It is estimated that at full buildout, there may be 100 more vehicle trips than when WalMart was a tenant. Infrastructure has yet to be determined. They may tie into the TownNicholas Filla suggested providing a copy of the traffic study to the Kingston Planning Board. Mr. Filla stated that the project will have approximately a 7-10 year buildout and that the changing demographics will determine the necessary parking. He suggested that the commuter parking lot on Commerce Way could be utilized for overflow parking.
The Kingston Planning Board was concerned with the traffic from the site and minimizing the impact on the Kingston road system. During peak travel times, Route 3A is grid locked in certain areas. They were also concerned with the intersection of Boundary Lane and Route 3A. It was suggested that Boundary Lane be used for ingress only. If MBTA trips were increased in Plymouth, it would take some of the pressure off the Kingston station. A 700 unit Chapter 40R project has been proposed for an area near the Kingston train station, which will also have a large impact on the road systems. The Kingston Planning Board agreed that it is important for both Boards to work together.
Dennis Randall suggested that additional parking for future commuters be provided.
Mr. Jannetty stated that currently there are 100 parking spaces for commuters, but that very few are utilized.
Lee Hartmann stated that it has been suggested to have a train or shuttle bus run between the Kingston and Plymouth train stations.
Loring Tripp felt that cooperation between the two boards was very important. The two boards need to work together to maximize State funding of both projects. Mr. Tripp suggested that a regional transportation study should be done and could possibly be funded through grants.
Paul McAlduff suggested that a commuter boat could also be a component in the transportation of residents to and from Boston.
Tom Bott stated that part of the Chapter 40R proposal in Kingston would include a south bound slip ramp directly onto Route 3.
Loring Tripp suggested drafting an action outline at the next joint meeting.
The Boards agreed that State and MBTA representation be invited to the next joint meeting on May 1, 2006.
Mr. Jannetty stated that the owners have not committed to the Chapter 40R proposal yet. Whether the development is done under Chapter 40R or another special permit, the development will have about the same density.
Nicholas Filla introduced the North Plymouth Steering Committee chairperson, Charles Vandini. The Steering Committee has been reviewing the proposed plan and is supportive.
Paul McAlduff suggested that if Boundary Lane was blocked from being an exit, that it could be kept as an emergency access.
Angus Jennings stated that the Boards should define a scope of work for a peer review of the necessary infrastructure for both projects. Mr. Jennings agreed to help the Boards draft an infrastructure priority list.
Mr. Hartmann suggested that the Boundary Lane intersection should be reviewed by the State whether or not the development proceeds.
The Boards agreed to define the issues that the State needs to review, and to invite the State delegation and MBTA representatives to the May 1, 2006 joint meeting.
Loring Tripp moved to continue the public hearing to March 27, 2006 at 7:15 p.m.; the vote was unanimous (4-0).
Loring Tripp moved to adjourn at 8:15 p.m.; the vote was unanimous (4-0).
Respectfully Submitted,
Eileen M. Hawthorne
Administrative Assistant Approved on: March 27, 2006
