Developer plans VFW site transformation with improved green space and stormwater management

The Lowell Planning Board made significant strides in urban development during their recent meeting on May 19, 2025, focusing on a proposed redevelopment project for a 1.7-acre site currently occupied by a VFW building. The plan includes the construction of three fast-food restaurants, including a Chipotle, and aims to enhance the area’s green space while addressing stormwater management concerns.

The existing site is predominantly impervious, with approximately 95% of its surface covered by pavement and the VFW building, which is larger than the combined area of the proposed restaurants. The redevelopment plan promises to introduce about 20% landscaping across the site, which will include a requirement for 5% interior landscaping. This shift is expected to improve the aesthetic and environmental quality of the area, responding to community feedback regarding the need for more greenery.

Key discussions during the meeting highlighted the importance of stormwater management. The project team, in collaboration with geotechnical engineers, has developed a plan to redirect stormwater runoff away from private properties and into an underground infiltration system. This system is designed to treat stormwater before it re-enters the groundwater, significantly reducing runoff to both Tanner and Plain Streets.

Additionally, the planning team addressed concerns raised by the fire department regarding vehicle access and landscaping. They assured that the design accommodates emergency vehicle paths while ensuring that low-growth plantings are used in areas where vehicles may traverse landscaped sections.

The board also discussed utility connections, with a focus on integrating a dedicated drainage system to meet the requirements of the wastewater utility. The team expressed willingness to collaborate with local businesses, such as Target, to facilitate these connections.

Overall, the proposed redevelopment not only aims to modernize the site but also to enhance environmental sustainability and community aesthetics. As the project moves forward, the Lowell Planning Board will continue to monitor its implementation, ensuring that it meets the needs of the community while adhering to environmental standards.