Developers propose reconfiguration to join Pacasset Ridge and Bayview projects; board flags review steps and fire access

The Planning Board reviewed a concept from Northborough Realty Holdings LLC proposing to reconfigure two adjacent developments — the larger Pacasset (Picasset) Ridge project and the smaller Bayview condominiums — to create a roadway connection and revise Bayview from 52 attached condominium units to a cluster of larger multi‑unit buildings. Attorney William Lander and project team described the change as intended to produce efficiencies in infrastructure and an improved layout and landscaping for the Bayview site.

Pacasset Ridge has preliminary approval for roughly 275 units across multiple types and phases on about 35.9 acres; Bayview had final approval for 52 condominium units on about 15.8 acres. The developers said the proposed reconfiguration would preserve unit counts, connect Bayview’s sewer to the Pacasset system (not Main Road), and rely on existing water and sewer infrastructure where feasible while improving landscape and road geometry. Bayview would be reconfigured into several 12‑unit and 8‑unit buildings, with garages on the first levels, and the developers showed conceptual parking and garage layouts.

Board members expressed general support for the concept as an improvement over the previously approved Bayview layout, noting the proposed elimination of a serpentine (switchback) road and reduced direct curb cuts onto Main Road. The board discussed process questions because Bayview had final approval and Pacasset had preliminary approval: most members agreed the changes would be “major modifications” requiring public notice and that both projects would effectively need to return to preliminary plan review and a coordinated public hearing. Members asked staff and the applicant to confirm how affordable (deed‑restricted) units and inclusionary zoning obligations would be carried forward under any change of configuration.

Concerns raised by board members and public commenters included fire access and ladder‑truck turning radii for the new building footprints, phased traffic impacts on Souza and Main roads, sidewalk and pedestrian connections between projects (including links to Picasset Cemetery and potential public access to a historic cemetery), and utility capacity — notably water pressure and fire flow issues tied to the Stonebridge and North Tiverton water systems. The board asked for hydrology and infrastructure modeling and to coordinate with the town, fire chief and utility providers as part of any formal application. Several public speakers praised the revised design, asked for cemetery access and improved sidewalks, and requested more detail on parking, sidewalks and ladder‑truck access.