BCAT News

Rendering of proposed helideck

The Burlington Planning Board has been hearing from representatives of Lahey Hospital on the relocation of their helicopter pad. 

Initially the MedFight helicopter landed at TW Field which was not popular with neighbors and was moved to the pads current location off Kimball Ave. The plan calls for the new pad to be located adjacent to the Emergency Room from its current location. The board requested information on traffic implications and flight path information.

Attorney Mark Vaughan informed the board that the new flight path would not require stopping of traffic. 

In response to the board’s questions on the MedFlight helicopter’s flight path flying over residential areas Vaughan referred them to Boston MedFlight Chief Operating Officer Rick Kenin. Kenin told the board that MedFlight typically flies over thoroughfares.

“Boston MedFlight endeavors not to fly over residential areas unless there is a safety of flight issue,” said Kenin.  

The Chief Operating Officer went on to explain flight paths typically fly according to the predominant wind out of west, landing and taking off into wind. Take off from the proposed pad would be in the direction of Mall Road, then turn left to get out over 128. The proposed site does follow FAA requirements for altitude and turning radius. 

The Lahey reps displayed visuals of the flight path of which Planning Director Kristin Kassner and members of the board requested more realistic, better visuals so as to better understand the impact on local neighborhoods. Vaughan agreed to return with better flight path visuals. 

Planning Board member William Gaffney requested a site visit to the proposed pad with helicopter flight overhead to understand the full effect of the MedFlight landing and taking off. Member Brenda Rappaport spoke in regards to residents being bothered by a MedFlight fly by.

“If it’s a life and death situation I’ll listen to a helicopter all day long,” said Rappaport.

Member Ernie Covino asked how often the helipad is used which is about 1 to 2 per week, 2-3 times per week is the maximum utilization. Although it was noted that 2020 proved that the healthcare industry can be unpredictable.

The board also inquired about restoring the existing site if the location is no longer needed. Lahey reps agreed to the possibility of seeding and making it a grassy green space. 

It was noted that one of Lahey’s give back to the Burlington community is an extensive benefit package through COA providing free parking vouchers for the garage for seniors.

The matter has been continued to a later meeting of the Planning Board.