Committee backs concept for permanent storybook trail on Doy Rock Trail

The Town of Hubbardston Open Space Committee voted to support a proposal to install a permanent storybook trail on the Doy Rock Trail, the committee agreed at its meeting after a presentation from Trish.

Trish, who organized last year’s mobile storybook walk, told the committee she and the library trustees applied to the Community Preservation Committee for funding and secured additional printing support from the Mass Cultural Council. She described a plan for roughly 20 panels mounted in angled, lockable frames on powder‑coated aluminum posts so panels can be changed seasonally.

The project is intended to improve durability and year‑round access compared with the existing mobile displays. Trish said Monty Tech students and staff have offered to install the concrete footings if vehicle access to the field can be arranged. She also said she had consulted a motorized‑wheelchair user about sightlines and that the design would be adjusted for accessibility where feasible.

Committee members discussed mounting options at length. Some favored posts set directly in concrete for security; others recommended a sleeve-and-pin approach so posts can be removed for maintenance or replaced after storm or vandal damage. The committee expressed a clear preference for sleeve-mounted posts if vendors can supply that option within budget.

The motion the committee approved asked for support of Trish’s storybook sign proposal with these preferences: locate the signs on the wooded (east) side of the loop, use brown powder‑coated aluminum posts, and pursue sleeved post installation when feasible. The motion was seconded and the committee voted in favor; the transcript does not record a numeric vote tally.

Trish said she will provide photos and a drawn sketch showing proposed post locations, and will follow up with the town DPW (Travis) to confirm installation logistics and maintenance expectations before the project proceeds to town meeting for CPC approval.

Next steps: Trish will return with a site sketch and vendor options (including sleeve pricing) and the committee will confirm whether the proposal will appear on the town meeting warrant. The committee noted final installation requires permission from landowners and compliance with any preservation restrictions.