Needham Conservation Commission members on July 24 approved a request to accept a contractor‑installed, 9‑foot gravel walkway, an ADA‑accessible ramp, granite steps and a timber bridge added during construction of the town’s reservoir dredge project.

Laura Krausz of Beta Group, representing the town, told the commission the contractor provided the path as an additional benefit during construction and that the project team is presenting the change now before seeking a future certificate of compliance.

“...the contractor was able to provide the town with an additional benefit to the project, which included construction of a gravel walkway that connects the trail that is around the reservoir to the DeFazio parking lot,” Krausz said. Justin (DPW) said the work was timed to coincide with required swale reconstruction and that the new features complete ADA connectivity between DeFazio Fields and the reservoir path: “We were really looking for as kind of a double benefit of the project to get that ADA compliant access…we were able to put in a small timber bridge and a ramp in order to accomplish that.”

Commission members reviewed photos of the ramp, granite steps and timber bridge. Chair Dave Harrer said he had visited the site and described the installation as a “first class job” that improves safety by providing a route that keeps pedestrians away from Public Works yard traffic.

Because the change was made during construction and was time sensitive, the project team submitted it as an after‑the‑fact minor modification. The commission voted by roll call to approve the modification; recorded votes were all in favor (Sue — aye; Bill — aye; Reid — aye; Paulina — aye; Chair Harrer — aye). Staff said the town will bring the completed project back later when it applies for the certificate of compliance.

The commission discussed signage and maps to help direct visitors to the new connection; staff said a new kiosk map and a trailhead sign are planned.

No enforcement or permit sanctions were discussed; the modification was approved as presented.