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Commission continues hearing on proposed wireless tower at Wheelwright Park, requests culvert inspection and alternatives analysis
Summary
The Conservation Commission continued the hearing on a proposed wireless communications tower at 121 Forest Ave (Wheelwright Park), asking the applicant for a culvert video inspection/certification, detailed construction and vehicle/traffic plans, buffer staking, a full alternatives analysis, and Article 97 documentation; the matter was continued to May 21, 2026.
The Commission reconvened a continued public hearing on the Town‑sponsored proposal for a wireless communications tower and associated utilities at Wheelwright Park, 121 Forest Avenue. Art Allen (EcoTec), wetlands scientist James Fitzgerald, and engineer Michael Dolan summarized a site walk and said the site selection was part of a multi‑factor Town process to improve public safety coverage. Dolan noted RF emissions are regulated by the FCC.
Commissioners raised multiple concerns about construction access, particularly the condition and capacity of a culvert on the access route. The applicant agreed to provide a video inspection of the culvert and professional certification of capacity and condition. Commissioners asked for staking of the 50‑ and 100‑foot buffer zones along the access route; a detailed construction management plan listing vehicle types and weights; a vehicle and traffic analysis; a clearer delineation of buffer zones; documentation of alternatives to a utility trench and evidence that less invasive power options were considered; and Article 97 appraisal/documentation requested from Town Counsel.
Public commenters expressed concerns about wildlife impacts, sufficiency of the alternatives analysis, and expected construction impacts from access and equipment. The Commission noted late submissions and outstanding Town‑department comments and continued the hearing to May 21, 2026 to allow submission and review of the requested materials.
No votes or permits were issued; the Commission recorded the requests and set the continuation date for further review.
