Co‑owner wins approval for 29 River Street sidewalk, gate and railing

A co‑owner of the house at 29 River Street presented photos and plans for replacing a temporary sidewalk, adding stonework and installing a wrought‑iron gate and handrail, and trustees approved the application as presented.

The presenter explained he bought and renovated the 19th‑century house and wants the new sidewalk and stone wall to be compatible with the front of the house and neighboring masonry by stonemason Darren McCullough. He said the new handrails are required by his insurance and are intended to help older guests: "Once these are done, then there will be some handrails because it's dictated by the insurance company," the presenter said. He described the gate swing target as 42 inches so two people can pass without breaking stride.

Trustees asked about materials and where the railing would attach; the applicant said the railing would likely attach to the porch post and that wrought iron examples are common in town. After brief discussion a trustee moved to close testimony and then to approve the application "as presented," including the wrought‑iron handrail; the motion was seconded and the trustees voted in favor. The applicant said construction should begin within days of contractor availability.

The decision allows the applicant to proceed with the sidewalk, stonework and railings; staff noted the applicant should coordinate final details on materials and attachment points before construction begins.