Town seeks to buy Cross Street parcel for parking and open space; board hears pre‑application
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Summary
Town staff described a proposed purchase of a Cross Street/Shamrock Lane parcel to expand parking and preserve connected open space and trail access; no formal action was taken.
Town Manager Bob Seltzer described a proposed town purchase of a parcel at Cross Street and Shamrock Lane during the June 26 meeting to create about 20–25 parking spaces, preserve a trail corridor and improve public access to adjacent open space held by the Smithfield Land Trust.
Seltzer said the town secured a DEM grant covering about 50% of acquisition costs and has set aside local funds for the remainder. The proposal would keep the area gravel and natural, add safety measures such as a bumper rail near the river, and address off‑street parking for trail users and overflow from athletic events at nearby ballfields.
Board members raised pedestrian safety and traffic concerns at the narrow Cross Street/Fenwood approach, and asked staff to coordinate with police and DPW on safe crossing and signage. The town manager said the town would pursue a pedestrian path and a formal crossing location if needed and will work with field managers to encourage use of the existing expanded lot. The item was informational; no vote was taken.
