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Designer says switchbacks could meet grade on steep site for proposed 4478 Howe Hill Road subdivision
Summary
The DRB reviewed additional materials for a proposed subdivision at 4478 Howe Hill Road; site steepness—especially on Lot 2—requires a road profile and may trigger stormwater requirements. Designer Rob Townsend said extending the road with switchbacks could meet grade; a site visit is set for June 8 and a hearing for June 9.
The Development Review Board reviewed additional materials for the proposed subdivision at 4478 Howe Hill Road on May 12, 2026. Agent Joe Honkala and designer Rob Townsend represented the applicant, owner Joe Griffo. DRB discussion focused on steep terrain—particularly on Lot 2—and whether the proposed road and grade meet the town's Subdivision Regulations. Commissioners said a road profile is required to demonstrate that proposed grades comply with the regulations; failing that, applicants must propose mitigations or alternative alignments.
Rob Townsend described an option in which the road would be slightly longer than 1,000 feet with switchbacks so the required grade can be attained, and said he would flag the proposed road alignment and provide maps before the scheduled site visit. The minutes note that because of the site's steep slopes and regulatory complexity, stormwater control measures may be necessary. The DRB scheduled a site visit for Monday, June 8 at 6:00 PM and set a hearing for Tuesday, June 9 at 7:00 PM.
The conversation emphasized engineering documentation: the board requested a road profile and flagged alignment so members and staff can assess grades and potential stormwater impacts during the site visit.
