Recreation commission approves $7,500 Activitas parking study, will press select board on Fayville Hall parking

The Recreation Commission voted to fund Activitas Task One at $7,500 to advance schematic design, community engagement and a parking study for Fayville Hall and adjacent park parking. The commission agreed the money will come from the recreation revolving fund and that approving the work keeps the project transparent and on schedule.

Members described persistent conflicts: a nearby organization has been advertising free parking for paid events, which commissioners said creates the appearance that Central Street spaces are available to commercial users rather than park visitors. Commissioners asked staff to draft a brief letter to the Select Board requesting that posted park hours be enforced so park users have priority parking during daylight hours, and to share the letter with immediate neighbors so they can offer feedback or attend a Select Board discussion.

Commissioners also discussed deeded parking (eight dedicated park spaces plus four floating spots) and whether signage and enforcement would be required if the Select Board supports the request. Staff said conversations with potential partners and the neighboring organization have been generally positive and that coordination could produce off-hour agreements that are mutually beneficial.

The commission approved Activitas Task One ($7,500) by motion and roll call, and staff will circulate a draft letter to the Select Board and to neighbors before filing the request.