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Neighbors press board over density and tree loss in Anderson Street subdivision plan
Summary
Neighbors urged the Planning Board to limit new lots and protect mature trees at a proposed subdivision at 84 Anderson Street; applicants said lot-line adjustment and a small lot-width variance produced two buildable lots but offered retaining-wall redesign and tree-protection measures to reduce impacts.
An engineer for the applicant explained a proposed lot‑line realignment and a small 3.6‑foot lot‑width variance to create two single‑family building lots at 84 Anderson Street (R‑1‑10 district). The applicant said the lots meet minimum lot-area requirements after a minor zoning variance; the plan includes grading, erosion controls, driveways and new utility connections.
Neighbors, including a long-term resident who identified herself as Anna Joanna, argued the change increases density in a narrow, child‑populated street and raised concerns about safety at a blind curve and heavy construction over rock ledges. Joanna told the board neighbors “didn't realize that it meant basically getting 2 more houses … we're gonna get 4 houses,” highlighting cumulative effects of parcel assembly and prior variances. The applicant said retaining walls will be used where necessary, described tree‑preservation attempts and offered to reconfigure driveways to reduce root-zone disturbance. The board left the public hearing open while requesting additional survey, sight‑distance documentation on driveways, and a planting/retaining‑wall plan showing which trees can be preserved.
