Bridge replacement at 325 Baldwinville Road continued while state review pending

The Templeton Conservation Commission on July 21 opened a public hearing and then continued a notice of intent to replace a preexisting access bridge at 325 Baldwinville Road until the commission receives a MassDEP file number and any state comments.

Project description: The filing proposes to replace a deteriorating access bridge with a like-for-like structure within the same nine-foot span footprint. The proposed replacement is slightly smaller than the original; the original bridge measured about 16 by 9 feet and the new structure will be approximately 15 by 9 feet, installed in the same location and with similar elevation above the stream.

Why it matters: The bridge crosses an intermittent stream near a residential property. Although the commission’s site inspection found no bordering-vegetated-wetland (BVW) within the specific footprint, work in and near streams typically triggers state stream-crossing standards and MassDEP review.

Discussion and conditions: Presenting engineer Matthew Morrow told the commission the original bridge had been removed and that the replacement would use concrete footings and steel support beams. He said he expected the state to raise standard stream-crossing questions but that there would be “no change in hydrology.” Commissioners and neighboring residents said the crossing has existed for decades and expressed support for a timely resolution; the commission explained emergency permits are limited to immediate threats to public health or safety and do not apply to generalized replacement work.

Action: Commissioners voted to continue the matter to the next regular meeting to allow time for MassDEP to assign a file number and submit comments. Staff will notify the applicant when the state response is received.