On Your Mark. Get Set. Study.

Last night was the second work session of the CDTC Exit 26 land use study and like the first session was well-attended. While the concerns and proposals are varied, the bike crossing across Route 5S, where there was a recent fatality, seems of particular interest to those that spoke. Essentially, it’s a safety issue and fortunately, the study has offered the opportunity to discuss possible worthwhile improvements. There will be much to consider when the concepts meet the design phase. Of course, funding any ultimate decisions will prove challenging regardless.

I thought the concept of “the green ribbon”, an idea to tie three distinct areas of the Junction together via green space along the river was intriguing. The idea one resident had of rerouting the bike path along that area and creating a new 5S crossover also made sense but it is unlikely that endeavor would ever be undertaken due to prohibitive costs. I can understand the notion of working to improve what’s already there but still it was an interesting idea to consider.

The current zoning designations didn’t seem to get much of an overhaul if I understood correctly. Wetlands, flood plains, and the aquifer are sure to exert influence over that aspect too.

The real benefit of this study will be when it is incorporated into the Town Comprehensive Plan, along with the other two interchange studies, in coordination with beefed-up performance standards. The early indication of that taking place is late summer or fall of this year. That’s the final exam for all our studying.