Conservation commission votes not to build access to Page Three from Meredith Neck Road

The Meredith Conservation Commission voted June 4 not to build a new access point to Page Three (Page Pond) from Meredith Neck Road, citing inadequate sight lines at the proposed dry site and negative wetland impacts at the alternate location.

Eytan Wulfshon and Department of Public Works Director Craig Hale visited the property and reported that the dry area originally considered would not meet state sight-line requirements for a curb cut. The lower area with acceptable sight lines was found to be wetlands and would negatively affect functional wetlands that serve Page Brook and Lake Winnipesaukee. Commissioners discussed special exceptions and variances but determined those options conflicted with the conservation easement and stewardship responsibilities for the property.

Ralph Pisapia moved, and Jim Gregoire seconded, a motion "to not build an access point to Page Three from Meredith Neck Road." The minutes record the motion carried; the minutes do not list vote tallies.

Why it matters: the decision preserves the conservation values of the town forest and nearby wetlands, but also maintains limited vehicle access for some potential users. The commission noted two other existing trailheads within about 2 miles and that the planned trail connection with the Page Pond Wetland Trail could still provide pedestrian access without a new parking lot.

What happens next: the commission will register boundary monuments and leave the trail access plan unchanged; implementation of pedestrian trail connections will proceed consistent with easement and stewardship obligations.