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Planning board approves Pearl Street preliminary subdivision; vernal pool questions to be addressed at definitive stage
Summary
The Gardner City Planning Board approved a preliminary subdivision for a 54.82-acre Pearl Street parcel allowing a 46-unit residential proposal and signaled that wetland delineation and Conservation Commission review will be required at the definitive-plan stage.
The Gardner City Planning Board voted March 24 to accept a preliminary subdivision plan for a 54.82-acre parcel off Pearl Street, clearing the way for the applicant to prepare a definitive plan with engineering, stormwater and wetland delineation.
Dan Sheen of Haley Ward, representing applicant FWP Realty Partners, presented the proposal: a subdivision showing 12 lots and 46 dwelling units made up of 11 four-unit buildings and one duplex. Sheen said the applicant intends to pursue an open-space residential development option during the definitive-plan process that would reduce roadway length and preserve more upland open space.
During public comment, resident Greg Gton said the wetland crossing the site includes a certified vernal pool "certified by the state." A consultant for the applicant responded that their preliminary work did not identify a certified vernal pool in that wetland series on the parcel but did identify a certified vernal pool off Opal Lane that abuts the property; the consultant emphasized that a wetland scientist will perform a formal delineation at the definitive stage.
Staff told the board that any wetlands impacts and buffer compliance will be reviewed by the Conservation Commission under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the City of Gardner Wetlands Protection Ordinance. Board members indicated they were comfortable approving the preliminary plan, noting both the by-right and conceptual open-space layouts meet zoning requirements, and asked the applicant to return with detailed engineering and stormwater documentation.
The board’s preliminary approval does not authorize construction; it allows the applicant to prepare the definitive subdivision plan and supporting environmental and engineering reports required for full review. Staff and applicants said they expect more detailed wetland delineation, limits of clearing, landscaping and screening to be resolved in the definitive submission.
