2014.06.12 Staff Report.docTo: Conservation Commission
From: Sarah LaValley
Reviewed and Approved by OPD: WF
RE: Staff Report, June 12 Commission Meeting
Date: June 9, 2014
5:00 PM Request for Determination
of Applicability to determine if lighting and security upgrades and installation of subsurface fiberoptic cable are subject to the Wetlands Protection Act or Northampton Wetlands Ordinance.
VA Medical Center, N. Main Street, Leeds, Map ID 11-001
Application Overview:
The application proposes construction of new light poles, bollard-mounted security cameras, and
Two
of the new light poles, a portion of the ditch for the cable, and one new bollard will take place within 50 feet of BVW, but is located entirely within areas of existing pavement and
disturbed areas.
The application also proposes a sediment barrier between the work and downgradient resource areas.
Consistency with the Wetlands Protection Act and Northampton Wetlands
Ordinance
The applicant has indicated that portions of the work qualify as Limited Projects as “reconstruction, operation and maintenance of underground and overhead public utilities.”
This determination is not necessary in this case, as the work will not create new alterations.
Staff Recommendations:
Issue a negative determination by checking box 2, to indicate
that the work is within an area subject to projection, but will not remove dredge fill or alter. Conditions requiring notification prior to and following completion of work, immediately
upon any proposed project changes, and requiring erosion control as proposed.
5:15 PM Notice of Intent for driveway construction and bridge to access a proposed single family home.
Work to take place in riverfront area (unnamed tributary to Parsons Brook), and buffer zone to bordering vegetated wetlands. Anthony Vachelli, Sylvester Road, Map IDs 20-006 and 20-010
Staff
Recommendations:
Continue the application to allow the applicant additional time to address compliance with the WPA and Ordinance.