Select Board endorses lower Flint Pond dam, spillway plan
TYNGSBORO >> A plan for a pedestrian bridge, a boardwalk, landscaping improvements and Americans with Disabilities Actcompliant walkways at the lower Flint Pond dam and spillway received positive feedback from the Select Board last week.
The project, which already has some funding from the state, is the capstone for a yearslong effort to develop a town center around the intersection of Middlesex, Kendall and Winslow roads, according to Town Manager Matt Hanson.
In the waning days of former Gov. Charlie Baker’s administration, the town received a $250,000 Housing Choice Grant Program for this project. The state budget includes an additional $80,000. The town will apply for up to $250,000 more under the Community Preservation Act.
This grant rewards communities that have produced a significant number of housing units in the past five years and follow established best practices to encourage housing production. Funds are awarded to projects focused on housing, transportation, economic and community development.
The land involved in the pedestrian walkway project is the island between Middlesex and Winslow roads where the Veterans’ Memorials are located.
In his presentation to Select Board members, Town Engineer Jake Swicker described the site now as “filled with scrub brush and leaves.” The plan he presented includes substantial landscape improvements as well as a boardwalk and observation deck over the existing dam and a pedestrian bridge.
Select Board member Eric Eldridge said, “Conceptually I like it. It ties everything in the center together.”
Board Chair Ron Keohane applauded including a boardwalk and observation deck in the plan. “This is a great use (of the property),” he said.