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Board continues 29 Ridge Road hearing after developers present expanded tree mitigation and 4.5× stormwater plan
Summary
The Zoning Board carried the complex 29 Ridge Road application to Dec. 16 after hearing applicant testimony on large‑scale grading, a planting program adding 105 trees (net +46) and a stormwater system the applicant says is 4.5 times ordinance requirements. Neighbors pressed for details about tree retention and planting timelines.
The Zoning Board continued the hearing on the application for 29 Ridge Road on Dec. 2 and agreed to carry the matter to Dec. 16 to allow time for additional materials and review. The applicant presented a substantially revised landscape and stormwater plan aimed at mitigating the impact of removing several trees to create a flatter rear yard and large retaining walls.
Why it matters: The revised planting plan proposes 105 new shade and ornamental trees, retention of 11 existing trees and a net increase of roughly 46 trees on the lot; engineers said the stormwater system has roughly 4.5 times the detention capacity required by the ordinance, which the applicant argued will alleviate off‑site runoff and improve neighborhood safety near a curb intersection.
What was presented: Applicant counsel summarized a city forester report dated Nov. 14 and the applicant's revised planting and grading plans. Landscape and arborist testimony explained species choice (swamp white oaks, sugar maples and 20–22 foot specimen plantings in key places), and the project team said some mature or structurally damaged trees must be removed because grading and retaining wall construction would compromise their root zones. Neighbors questioned how quickly new plantings will screen views and whether specific shrubs on adjacent properties might be affected; the applicant said planting will occur in spring after heavy construction and that existing screening may be retained as long as feasible.
Board action: The board carried the application to Dec. 16 without additional public notice, with the applicant consenting to the waiver so the matter can be re‑noticed administratively. Officials asked the applicant to provide final planting sizes, a planting schedule and clarification about efforts to preserve screening during construction.
