Planning Board Reviews Adventure Zone Application Completeness
On June 19, 2025, the Planning Board convened to determine the completeness of a site plan application for the proposed Adventure Zone project. The meeting, a continuation of the June 12 session, focused solely on reviewing whether the application submitted by the developer met all required elements.
The board evaluated several components of the application, including updated maps showing building placements on Map 105, Lot 10-311, designated pedestrian paths that avoid interference with fire lanes, estimated signage locations, service areas for deliveries and loading, handicapped parking spaces, and an elevation view of proposed fencing (link). The chair noted that all requested items appeared to be included, prompting discussion among board members.
A key concern raised was the potential non-compliance of handicapped parking spaces with ADA requirements, specifically the distance from accessible entrances, which may exceed 200 feet (link). A board member referenced a letter from town staff, signed by the Director of Public Safety, indicating that compliance with ADA and other codes would be verified once final site parameters are confirmed. The letter, read into the record, affirmed that the proposed plan can be serviced by existing water and sewer systems without public road or sidewalk disruptions (link). It also noted ongoing coordination with the Department of Public Safety to ensure adherence to state and local regulations.
The board clarified that determining an application’s completeness does not require immediate legal compliance, such as final ADA adherence, but rather confirms that all required elements are present (link). Following this, the board unanimously voted to accept the application as complete, marking the start of a 30-day evaluation period, with up to 65 days for further assessment before a final decision is required (link).
The board also scheduled a public hearing for July 24, 2025, at 6 p.m. tentatively in the Brookside Room in Town Square to gather community input (link). Concerns were raised about the timing due to the proximity to the July 4th holiday, potentially affecting attendance, but the board opted for an earlier date to allow ample time for public comments and subsequent deliberations. The hearing will be posted on the town website, with a legal notice sent to abutters, and a schematic of the plan will be available online for public review (link).
No significant financial matters were discussed, but the decision to accept the application as complete sets the stage for further scrutiny of the Adventure Zone project, which could impact town development and infrastructure.