Planning board recommends town accept Cross Country Lane, releases phase 2 security for Saltwood Farm

The Town of Middletown Planning Board voted to release the remaining performance security for phase 2 of the Saltwood Farm subdivision and to recommend that the Town Council accept Cross Country Lane as a town road.

Peter Gallapo, who identified himself with an address of 135 Bailey Avenue and spoke for the item, said the improvements have been in place for more than two years and that the town's Department of Public Works had indicated the work was complete. The board noted it had received a letter from the town engineer and the public works director confirming the road is acceptable for town maintenance.

The board clarified that a maintenance bond — equal to 10% of the original performance security — will be retained for one year to cover any defects that emerge after acceptance. Town staff said the maintenance bond is standard practice and that the bond retains 10% of the original performance security for a year in case issues arise.

A member of the board moved to release the performance security for phase two and to recommend the council accept Cross Country Lane; the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote with the chair voting aye.

The action applies only to phase two of the Saltwood Farm subdivision; the applicant is expected to return to the board to address later phases at future meetings.