In a recent meeting of the Charlestown Town Council's Technical Review Committee, discussions centered around a proposed housing development that aims to address the growing demand for affordable housing in the area. The project, which includes 41 single-level two-bedroom units and 42 three-bedroom, two-bathroom units, is designed to incorporate 21 affordable units, reflecting the town's commitment to providing diverse housing options.

Evelyn Smith, the property owner, has been involved with the site for many years, and the development has undergone several iterations. Sam Hemmenway, representing the engineering team, provided an overview of the project, noting that it is still in the preliminary stages. He emphasized the importance of understanding the subsurface conditions and the need for further investigations as the project progresses.

A key point of discussion was the density of the proposed development. Hemmenway acknowledged that the new plan would allow for a significantly higher number of units compared to previous proposals, which had suggested around 24 lots. However, concerns were raised about the implications of this increased density on the surrounding community, particularly in relation to the character of Carolina Village.

The committee highlighted the necessity for a detailed yield plan to better understand the actual density allowed under state law, especially in light of the Low and Moderate Income Housing Act, which permits additional units for affordable housing. The committee expressed the need for clarity on how infrastructure impacts the total acreage available for development.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while the project holds potential for addressing housing needs, further analysis and community input will be essential. The committee awaits a formal application that will provide more detailed plans, including prototypes of the buildings and a clearer understanding of the project's overall impact on the community. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing development with community concerns, a theme that resonates throughout Washington County as it navigates growth and housing demands.