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Board leans toward conventional Abbot Hill subdivision, asks developer for traffic-calming and landscape details
Summary
The Hollis Planning Board signaled a preference for a conventional layout for the Abbot Hill Estates subdivision but directed the applicant to provide additional traffic-calming details (signage, a blinking warning light and a radar speed indicator subject to DOT approval) and a landscape plan for the Deacon Lane side in lieu of a visual-impact study; the case was continued to June 16.
The Hollis Planning Board pressed a developer to provide firm traffic-calming details and a landscape plan as it moved the Abbot Hill Estates (PB2025011) discussion forward.
Chad Brannen, civil engineer and principal owner with Fieldstone Land Consultants representing Ryerson Homes Elite, told the board the March 10 submission includes signage commitments and that additional documentation on the community water system and other staff comments will be provided before the next meeting.
Board members discussed three traffic-calming options identified by the town's independent consultant: additional signage, an overhead blinking warning light at the new-road intersection with Route 130, and a radar speed-indicator sign. Several board members expressed support for a blinking light and for placing a radar speed indicator in both directions if DOT permits. Brannen said the applicant had formally offered signage on the plan and was willing to review other measures with DOT if needed.
The board also debated whether to require a visual-impact study for views from Proctor Hill and Deacon Lane. The applicant said most houses would be set far back from Proctor Hill and suggested a targeted landscape plan for the Deacon Lane approach would better address local concerns. The board expressed consensus favoring a landscape plan for Deacon Lane and asked the applicant to provide that plan at the next meeting.
On procedural matters the board agreed to continue PB2025011 to the June 16 meeting so staff and the applicant can submit the requested materials (traffic-calming plan details for DOT review and a Deacon Lane landscape plan) and to allow staff time to review the outstanding 26 items in the staff memo.
Brannen said he would provide a memorandum with the community-well monitoring results and the state permit reference and would coordinate with DOT on any overhead lighting permit requirements.
The continuation gives the board time to evaluate the traffic-calming options, the landscape plan, and any required state permitting before scheduling a public hearing or a final vote.
