The Natural Resources Commission voted to approve placement of two teak benches on NRC land as part of preparations for the town’s 250th celebrations. Mimi Grainy, the town’s economic vitality coordinator, said she secured a $27,000 grant from the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism to purchase the benches and that the Historic Districts Commission approved the proposed styles and locations.

Grainy described two candidate sites: one near Monument Square along the Reformatory Trail entrance to improve seating between the depot and North Bridge, and a second at Macomb Park near a wayfinding sign. The benches being procured meet the town’s accessibility and age‑friendly goals (back and armrests). Grainy said the town expects delivery by March with installation in March or early April, and that the town has prepared easement documents where necessary.

A commissioner moved to approve two public‑access benches at the proposed addresses with final location approval by Natural Resources Division staff; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. Town staff committed to handling installation and future maintenance in coordination with Public Works.