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HDC approves low observation deck and accessible path at Cornick Road preserve
Summary
The commission approved a low observation deck, accessible path and signage at a Block Island Conservancy property on Cornick Road after reviewing materials and accessibility options; commissioners recommended AZEK decking and asked for exact construction details in the follow-up.
The New Shoreham Historic District Commission approved a proposal from the Block Island Conservancy and the Committee for Great Salt Pond to install a low observation deck, accessible path, picnic-site improvements and interpretive signs at the Cornick Road property near Great Salt Pond.
Cindy Pappas, representing the Committee for Great Salt Pond, described a pared-down plan to replace granite parking delineators with wooden posts and rope, repair picnic tables, add a short observation deck about 8 inches high, and place 2–3 interpretive signs about birds and fish. The commission discussed accessibility options and asked the applicants to research permeable surfaces; the applicants said Scott Cummings had recommended a packed stone-dust path, but commissioners suggested exploring permeable pavers as an alternative. "We don't want anything impermeable," the applicant said; both applicant and commissioners favored a nonpressure-treated decking product for longevity.
Commissioners discussed decking and railing materials; the applicant indicated intent to use a capped synthetic decking product and commissioners agreed that AZEK (a capped-PVC decking product) would be acceptable. The motion—approving a roughly 10-by-16-foot deck, an Azek deck surface, an accessible ramp approach and a railing on the west side—passed by voice vote. The commission asked for drawings or photos to be included in the file and confirmed the railing height would meet code requirements.
The commission asked the applicants to return with final details (exact decking product, ramp alignment, and sign dimensions) and confirmed the scope is limited to a viewing deck and site improvements; there was no discussion of larger structures such as pergolas. The Conservancy will proceed with permitting steps and return if final materials or dimensions change.
Commissioners described the plan as a modest, lower-impact alternative to earlier, more elaborate designs for the site and praised the emphasis on avoiding impermeable surfaces and on improved public access to the pond.
