South Burlington DRB reviews final plat for 11‑lot master plan; civic garden, stormwater and tree mix detailed

The South Burlington Development Review Board on March 18 heard the final plat application SD 2503 from WGN Associates for phase 1 of an 11‑lot master plan at 850 Hinesburg Road. Dave Marshall of Civil Engineering Associates described the civic‑space layout and on‑site stormwater features and answered questions from board members and city staff.

The civic space is proposed as a community garden immediately north of the lots. Marshall said the design includes a gravel wetland and a forebay intended to settle solids and to “double use that particular area as some irrigation water” for garden plots downhill. He described a yard hydrant connection and piping to deliver water by gravity, a garden shed, raised beds and a butterfly‑planting area. City staff asked that the applicant identify and label those features on the final plans for board review.

Why it matters: the civic lot occupies a wetland buffer and contains stormwater infrastructure whose management affects downstream receiving waters. Board discussion emphasized labeling and flexible approval language so the city and future stewards can change garden details without reopening the hearing.

Board and staff questions centered on wetland‑buffer protections and construction details.…