ISSUES
Balancing Preservation and Development
In areas of significance to Franklin’s ecosystem, there is a need to balance public access to open space and recreational facilities and safeguarding the natural environment. Striking this balance is important to preserve the ecological integrity of the area while maintaining Franklin’s overall appeal. Recent surveys distributed by the Franklin Planning Board and Conservation Commission indicate that many responses find that the primary challenges of managing Franklin are balancing the town’s growth with preserving town facilities and amenities.178 Most of Franklin’s open space is protected in perpetuity, though several parcels have limited or no protection. Parcels under consideration for acquisition by the Town embody the vision of creating an expansive green belt similar to Boston's Emerald Necklace, prioritizing habitat preservation and open space connectivity.
Recreation Management
The town's recreational facilities are well-used and well-maintained, striving to be accessible to all. Many of these facilities operate near full capacity daily, indicating an ongoing need to expand indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate more participants. Expanding opportunities for people to access popular activities like pickleball and soccer would help meet the current demand. Along with increased demand for recreational use, the amount of parking, particularly around Maple Hill and Dacey Community Fields, should be considered.
OPPORTUNITIES
Enhanced Recreation and Inclusivity
Increasing the number of accessible trails presents an opportunity to promote recreational activities for a broader range of community members, including those with mobility challenges. This contributes to a more inclusive and diverse recreational environment. Through outreach and communication, Franklin continues to promote open space and recreational facilities throughout town. Franklin is in the process of adding signage at various open spaces and recreation areas to facilitate easy navigation. Additionally, signage can educate visitors on a variety of local environmental, cultural, and recreational information.
Increase in Public Outreach
With over 700 people in the community participating in the 2023 Master Plan and Open Space surveys, there is a consensus for increasing public awareness of open space and recreation amenities and facilities. Data gathered from the 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) shows common improvements the public wants to incorporate moving forward including trail maintenance, trail and boundary markers, habitat improvement, invasive species management, tree protection, and aquatic connectivity.
The Open Space and Recreation, Natural, Cultural, and Historic Resources Subcommittee (OSRP NCHR) members have successfully utilized Instagram, Facebook, and the Farmer’s Market as effective platforms for communication and public engagement.180 This initiative has enabled the expansion of communication channels through social media leverage and the dissemination of information at community events, thereby educating residents across all age groups.
Future Planning
Town officials created a 7-year action plan as part of the 2023 OSRP to guide the town in prioritizing needs and resources. It utilizes public feedback and participation obtained over the past decade to achieve the goals and objectives for future open space and recreation advancement and outreach. This plan aims to enhance public awareness and conserve open space resources. The progression and goals of the action plan serve as the foundation for most OSRP NCHR meetings.
Local Policies and Practices
The Town hopes to move towards preserving the character of Franklin with a balanced mix of development and open space. Policies such as the Community Preservation Act (CPA), allow for two percent of resident taxes to be put towards local preservation of open space, historic sites, and affordable housing. Town officials are considering increasing the levy to three percent and have received favorable public feedback for this change. The CPA includes Chapter 61 land for conservation, recreational, and agricultural use.
A recent example of CPA utilization is the Town successfully acquiring Schmidt Farm in 2022, a valuable piece of land spanning over 100 acres. To preserve the legacy of agriculture, the Town secured these rolling fields and forested areas through a 20-year borrowing plan using CPA funds.182 The Agricultural Commission envisions promoting sustainable practices in Franklin and aims to utilize this newly acquired parcel for education and conservation.
