Representatives for the Nordblom Company were before the Planning Board as part of their housing project at 129 and 131 Middlesex Turnpike. The board reviewed a site plan approval and special permits related to the project’s residential garage and a swimming pool, while also hearing updates on parking, stormwater, public open space, pedestrian connections, landscaping and traffic.
The development has been refined following Town Meeting approval and is intended to align with the development agreement approved as part of that process. A key update to the plan is pulling the building back an additional 20 feet from Great Meadow Road to better accommodate the road’s curve and reduce the building’s presence along Great Meadow Road.
The plan includes a two-level, underbuilding garage, along with surface parking for guests. The board expressed concerns about flooding and fire safety regarding the placement of EV charging stations in the underground garage, an issue the proponent said they would address.
A significant feature of the project is the proposed public park along the southern side of the site on Great Meadow Road. The park would feature an eight-foot-wide multi-use path with access to sidewalks on Middlesex Turnpike and future sidewalks along Great Meadow Road.
The design of the building emphasized refined facades on all sides and the preservation of mature trees, along with native tree plantings throughout open spaces. Proposed open space amenities include a dog park, benches, and native plants from the Vine Brook conservation area to support local pollinators, insects, bees, and bird life.
The proposed stormwater management system involves collecting water from various parts of the site and directing it into an upgraded system, with the goal of substantially reducing the amount of water leaving the site.
Preliminary traffic studies were conducted by the proponent last November during Black Friday and again during a recent weekend in April. Representatives also stated they planned to seek state funding for additional traffic studies aimed at improving pedestrian connectivity and the traffic signal system in the area.
The board ultimately voted to proceed with a traffic peer review due to the area’s complexity and heavy traffic and requested staff develop a scope and solicit bids.
The matter was continued to the Planning Board meeting of May 21.
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