Board approves final lot release for Hunter Street subdivision after bond increase and signage condition

At its Oct. 2 meeting the Taunton City Planning Board approved the petition to release the final two lots in the May 9/Hunter Street subdivision contingent on the petitioner posting additional surety and installing required street signs.

Planning staff and the outside engineering consultant reported the developer previously posted $240,000 in surety; the consultant’s estimate set the cost-to-complete at approximately $173,000 and recommended the surety be twice that amount — $346,000 — meaning an additional bond of $106,000 should be posted before release of the final lots. The engineering review noted the binder course of pavement held up over the winter but that certain castings and gate elevations still require adjustment prior to final paving. The fire department requested that street signs be installed before the release to ensure emergency responders can identify addresses.

The petitioner confirmed readiness to post the additional surety and to place street signs; the board moved and approved the lot releases by voice vote with the condition that the increased surety be posted and street signs be installed. Staff told the petitioner to coordinate with the inspector for required inspections before final acceptance and that a written lot release will issue once the planning department confirms the bond and signage.