What is the process for allowing the project to occur?
The original permit issued by the Zoning Board of Appeals in 2009 to allow the construction of Forge Pond Park and its use as a recreational complex for the Town contained several Special Conditions. Special Condition 7 states, in part: “If the applicant wishes at any time to install lighting for after-hours use of the facilities, a lighting and operations plan must be submitted to the Zoning Board of Appeals for review and approval. Any proposed lighting fixtures at the facility shall be directed into the site and shall utilize “shoebox style” light cutoff fixtures to prevent glare to adjacent properties.”
Along with public hearing(s) and approval by the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Conservation Commission held a public hearing on March 29, 2023, and issued a Negative Determination of Applicability at that time.
Funding for this project is being requested at the May 2023 Annual Town Meeting. Article 30 of the Annual Town Meeting asks for the appropriation of $500,000 of Community Preservation funds to allow this project to move forward. This funding will enable the construction and installation of LED athletic field lighting for one baseball and one softball field, along with necessary roadway and parking area lighting.