Committee members described steps to build a community garden and a prototype accessible picnic table they hope to replicate at public sites across town.

A committee speaker said the group has “got a $5,000 grant” that could cover materials for a picnic table for the community garden. The table design was developed from research by the town’s Accessibility, Walkability and Pedestrian Safety Task Force; Tim (last name given in meeting) built a prototype combining preferred features from several reviewed models.

Members said the community garden site is east of Summer Street, adjacent to Dog River Park, and that initial groundwork is complete. Plans call for raised beds but the group intends to try a dirt-first approach before adding lumber because of concerns about floatation and water redirection. A speaker summarized the phased approach: trial planting without lumber, then add 2x10 framing if needed and request further FEMA or other support for full construction.

On the picnic-table design, members said they will use pressure-treated lumber for structure and composite decking (Trex) for seating to reduce splinters and maintenance. Tom Davis and Fred Nathan were named as local contacts for materials and donations; members said Tom has a bill-of-materials list and that coordination with the select board will follow.

No formal purchase or construction schedule was approved at the meeting; members said they will coordinate with the select board and continue fundraising and material sourcing.