Redevelopment plan granted comment period

BURLINGTON >> The Board of Selectman was receptive to the Village Center Plan and Development Committee’s redevelopment plan for Burlington’s town center, focused around the intersection of Library Lane and Route 4.

First Selectman Ted Shafer, who suggested the creation of the year-long ad hoc group initially, and Community Planning Consultant David Elder made the hour long presentation to the board on Tuesday night. About 20 members of the public came out to hear the presentation and ask questions of the committee.

“The plans were well received by the board of selectman,” said Shafer. “They thought the schematics were well thought out and appropriate for Bur-

lington. They appreciated all of the effort that was put in.”

For the past year the committee, which consisted of landowners, business owners, board and commission members, civic organizations, town residents and others with an interest in reconstructing the town center, have been discussing and planning the redevelopment of downtown Burlington - creating the town center meeting place Burlington has never had.

Their plans include moving the Congregational Church, forming a large town green at the corner of the highway and Library Lane, relocating the current Little League field to a recreation park behind Library Lane, adding an amphitheater within that recreation park, building a clock tower, mixed-use buildings along Library Lane and continuing the lane and connecting it to Covey Road.

During their presentation, the committee recommended opening a 90-day comment period to give the public an opportunity to digest the plans and offer their opinions on them. The board of selectman approved that plan, according to Shafer.

From here, the committee will make presentations to various boards and commissions starting with the planning and zoning commission Thursday night. A presentation will also be made to the public at the Burlington Library in August. In September, they will set up a tent at Tavern Day to meet more members of the public, said Shafer.

“We’re seeking input all along the way,” said Shafer.

After the comment period closes, an implementation committee will be created to address various issues.

The redevelopment plans are moving forward and Shafer believes, “We’re in a good spot.”