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Conservation commission approves Barefoot Brook Woods trail plan including DCR crossings with condition to avoid town setbacks
Summary
The Northborough Conservation Commission approved a notice of intent for a loop trail at 432 Whitney Street — to be known as Barefoot Brook Woods — including three minor wetland crossings onto DCR land, with a condition that any realignment remain outside Northborough bylaw setbacks.
The Town of Northborough Conservation Commission voted on Jan. 12 to approve a notice of intent for a new loop trail on town property at 432 Whitney Street and a connecting spur that crosses wetlands to reach adjoining Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) land.
Chair Greg Young opened the continued hearing and applicants reported that DCR granted approval to create a trail on DCR property and supplied design materials and conditions. Brian (applicant representative) said DCR’s approval came with recommended alignment changes and that DCR will meet onsite in the spring to set the final route. Brian also told the commission the DCR approval is valid for two years.
Commissioners debated whether to split the decision (approve the main loop on Town property first, then separately vote on the crossings that impact wetlands). Applicant representatives asked for a single decision on the submitted notice of intent. After discussion the chair closed the hearing and the commission voted to allow the proposed trail network as submitted, subject to a condition that any later realignment remain outside Northborough’s bylaw setbacks. Vinnie (staff) clarified that if a future realignment enters the setback, the applicant must notify the commission or file a new application.
Greg Young, chair, stated his support for the loop trail and cautioned about proximity to wetlands: "I support the loop trail a 100. It's a great piece of property for it. I don't like the idea of going to the wetlands, going near them." Applicant representatives said they will work with DCR on alignment and drainage considerations; one applicant noted DCR "was very supportive of the idea" and that some alignment adjustments will be made to improve drainage.
Next steps include a site meeting with DCR in spring to finalize alignment; the commission’s approval includes the condition that alignments avoid local setbacks, and applicants said they would refile if a change moves work into regulated setbacks.
Ending: The hearing was closed and the commission’s decision approving the NOI will be recorded; commission staff and the applicants will coordinate a spring field meeting with DCR to finalize alignment and confirm that the approved condition is adhered to.
