Davis Thayer Reuse Advisory Subcommittee - Agenda for Sep 19, 2023 meeting at 7 PM

Davis Thayer Reuse Advisory Subcommittee 

Agenda & Meeting Packet

September 19, 2023 at 7:00 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building

2nd floor, Council Chambers 355 East Central Street 

Agenda:

1. Discuss potential future uses

a. Arts and recreation center

b. Police station

c. Various housing options

2. Davis-Thayer Cleanout project update

3. Discuss open house dates

4. Adjourn

Agenda doc also includes remote participation info

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/_2023-09-19_davis-thayer_reuse_agenda__0.pdf

Davis Thayer Reuse Advisory Subcommittee - Agenda for Sep 19, 2023 meeting at 7 PM

Hey kids, paint a portrait of Ben Franklin, yes, the 4 legged one: for K-5 students, Sep 26

Join us for a fun art workshop on September 26th. Spend your day with a fun art workshop. We will be painting portrait's of Franklin Police Department one and only Ben Franklin.

Register online at franklinma.myrec.com

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/CxLO_4TOod3/

Paint a portrait of Ben, yes, the 4 legged one: for K-5 students, Sep 26

Good Deeds: Norfolk County Destination Locations

By William P. O'Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds

 

Good Deeds: Norfolk County Destination Locations

We are in the dog days of summer, and the children, if you have them, are out of school. Like many people around this time of year, you may be looking for something to beat the summer doldrums. I have good news for you: we live in an area that is filled with historic places, wonderful views, and interesting landmarks. There are many activities that can provide entertainment, pleasure, and enjoyment. There are numerous opportunities right here in Norfolk County to enjoy while creating lasting memories with your family and friends.

As a parent and native of Norfolk County, I know how difficult it can be to keep family and friends active and engaged while not breaking the bank. So, I thought this list of budget-friendly activities might be helpful for you and your family if you are out and about the 28 communities that make up Norfolk County.

There is nothing like finding a picturesque beach to beat the summer heat, and some of these locations may do just that for you.

Ames Long Pond

1000 Highland Street, Stoughton, MA

Visit website for details: https://stoughtonma.myrec.com/info/facilities/details.aspx?facilityid=14696

Houghton's Pond Recreation Area

840 Hillside Street, Milton, MA

Visit website for details: https://www.mass.gov/locations/houghtons-pond-recreation-area

Sweatt Beach

5 Woolford Road, Wrentham, MA

Visit website for details: https://wrenthamma.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29842

Looking to catch the big one? These locations offer a serene setting for fishing, whether you are an experienced angler or just looking for a peaceful escape with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Even if you don't have any luck with the fish, you can still take a nice stroll along the water.

Fuller Brook Park

15 Maugus Avenue, Wellesley Hills, MA

Lyman Pond

200 Nahatan Street, Westwood, MA

If fishing is not for you, but you still want to take in the scenic views of Norfolk County while burning a few calories, these locations offer some good trails that will keep you motivated. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, there are a variety of locations where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Norfolk County and stay active.

Adams Farm

999 North Street, Walpole, MA

Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary

293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon, MA

Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Oak Grove Park

444 Exchange Street, Millis, MA

Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary

108 North Street, Norfolk, MA

Open Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Norfolk County has a rich history, and to our benefit, many communities have made the investment to preserve these buildings. These preserved buildings offer a unique glimpse into the past and provide a fascinating educational experience for visitors. 

Angle Tree Stone

On the border of North Attleboro and Plainville

accessed on the North Attleboro side at 657 High Street, North Attleboro, MA

Blanchard's Colonial Tavern

98 North Main Street, Avon, MA

Visit website for details: http://www.blanchardstavern.com

Dwight-Derby House

7 Frairy Street, Medfield, MA

Visit website for details: https://www.dwightderbyhouse.org

Fairbanks House

511 East Street, Dedham, MA

Visit website for details: https://fairbankshouse.org

Frederick Law Olmsted Historical Site

99 Warren Street, Brookline, MA

Visit website for details: https://www.nps.gov/frla/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm

Holbrook Historic District

40 Union Street, Holbrook, MA

Jonathan Belcher House

360 North Main Street, Randolph, MA

Medway Historic District

2 Milford Street, Medway, MA

Visit website for details: http://medwayhistoricalsociety.org/hisdists.htm

The F. Holland Day House

93 Day Street, Norwood, MA

Guided tour and ice cream social August 13: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://norwoodhistoricalsociety.org/event/day-house-guided-childrens-tour-ice-cream-social-august-13-2023

Sawin Memorial Building

80 Dedham Street, Dover, MA

Visit website for details: http://doverhistoricalsociety.org/sawin.html

Thayer House

786 Washington Street, Braintree, MA

Visit website for details: https://braintreema.gov/408/Sylvanus-Thayer-Birthplace

Weymouth Central Square Historic District

200 Middle Street, East Weymouth, MA

If you are looking for a museum, Norfolk County offers a variety of options to choose from that showcase the county's history through a variety of exhibits and displays. These museums provide a unique opportunity to delve into the rich heritage and culture of Norfolk County.

Ernest A. Taft Jr. Historical Museum

3 Common Street, Bellingham, MA

Open August 9th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://www.bellinghamma.org/historical-commission

Franklin Historical Museum

80 West Central Street, Franklin, MA

Open Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://www.franklinmuseum1778.com

Maritime Museum

106 South Main Street, Cohasset, MA

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://www.cohassethistoricalsociety.org/maritime-museum

Memorial Hall

4 School Street, Foxborough (Foxboro), MA

Wednesday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Visit website for details: http://www.foxboroughhc.org

Needham History Center and Museum

1147 Central Avenue, Needham, MA

Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Wednesday through Thursday, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://needhamhistory.org

Paul Revere Heritage Site

96 Revere Street, Canton, MA

Visit website for details: https://paulreveremuseum.org

U.S.S. Salem

549 South Street, Pier 3, Quincy, MA

Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://www.uss-salem.org

I hope you find this list useful and that you take advantage of some of the opportunities that Norfolk County offers as well as make some enduring memories with friends and family. Whether you are interested in outdoor activities like hiking or prefer indoor pursuits such as visiting museums or trying out new hobbies, the communities of Norfolk County have something for everyone. So, go ahead and explore all the exciting options available to you this summer! 

Franklin Recreation: Fall 2023 Brochure

Franklin Recreation: Fall 2023 Brochure 275 Beaver Street, Franklin, MA. 02038 • (508) 613-1666 • http://franklinma.myrec.com/ Good Morning Everyone, Our Fall Brochure is officially live! Check out all the exciting programs we will be offering this Fall. Registration for all these programs will open on August 1st. If you have any questions about any programs or classes please let us know. We hope to see you this Fall! Fall Brochure 2023

Comment process for the draft Open Space & Recreation Plan discussed in public hearing #3 - 06/20/23 (audio)

FM #1017 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1017 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the third and final Public Hearing held to gather input on the Town of Franklin Open Space & Recreation Plan (OSRP).

The hearing covered some of the details around the process: 

• The draft has been issued for comment

• Comments are open through July 12

• Additional detail on the survey results are being formatted to add to the draft. This won't change the goals or objectives, just provide the additional supporting evidence for such.

The conversation runs about 70 minutes. Let’s listen to the OSRP Public Hearing #3 Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1017-open-space-recreation-plan-public-hearing-3-06-20-23

--------------

Conservation page ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation 

The draft plan can be found online ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/system/files/uploads/2023_osrp_draft_for_comment_0.pdf 

Comments on the plan can be submitted ->

https://forms.gle/SJZKH43xj6JkAVPX8 

The summary of the plan -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/06/2023-open-space-recreation-plan-summary.html 

The goals & objectives -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/06/2023-open-space-and-recreation-plan.html 

The public hearing video is available for replay ->    https://www.youtube.com/live/wbA8tRvhO6M 

My notes captured via Twitter and found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MYo-a8rFxsoyCa8XVnbVnfSRmwMeVSqy/view?usp=drive_link

--------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Open Space & Recreation Plan - Summary

Open Space & Recreation Plan public hearing #3 video available for replay

The Open Space & Recreation Plan was discussed in the 3rd and last in the series of planned Public Hearings on Tuesday, June 20, 2023. The hearing covered some of the details around the process: 

• The draft has been issued for comment
• Comments are open through July 12
• Additional detail on the survey results are being formatted to add to the draft. This won't change the goals or objectives, just provide the additional supporting evidence for such.

The draft plan can be found online ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/system/files/uploads/2023_osrp_draft_for_comment_0.pdf

Comments on the plan can be submitted ->

https://forms.gle/SJZKH43xj6JkAVPX8

The summary of the plan -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/06/2023-open-space-recreation-plan-summary.html

The goals & objectives -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/06/2023-open-space-and-recreation-plan.html

The public hearing video is available for replay ->    https://www.youtube.com/live/wbA8tRvhO6M

Open Space & Recreation Plan - Summary 

Open Space & Recreation Plan - Public Hearing #3 - June 20, 2023 - 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Open Space & Recreation Plan 

Public Hearing #3 - Agenda

June 20, 2023 - 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

This Open Space and Recreation Plan Public Hearing is available to be attended in person and via the ZOOM platform. 

In an effort to ensure citizen engagement, citizens will be able to dial into the meeting using the provided phone number (Cell phone or Landline Required) OR citizens can participate by copying the link (Phone, Computer, or Tablet required). Please click/copy and paste the link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86345075948 or call on your phone at 929-205-6099, meeting number is 863 4507 5948. 

If you are having trouble accessing through the link, please call on your phone and use *6 to toggle between mute/unmute and *9 to raise your hand. 

The public hearing can also be accessed remotely on Franklin TV All-Access channel (Channel 8 Comcast/Channel 26 Verizon). 

For residents that do not have cable, the public hearings can be accessed live on the Franklin TV All-Access YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@franklinmaall-accesstv7535. 

If you wish to attend in person, the meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at the Franklin Town Hall, second floor at 355 East Central Street.

1. GENERAL BUSINESS

1.1 Public Hearing 3: Town staff will present a draft of the 2023 OSRP and will be seeking feedback from the community.

The draft plan can be found online ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/system/files/uploads/2023_osrp_draft_for_comment_0.pdf

Comments on the plan can be submitted ->

https://forms.gle/SJZKH43xj6JkAVPX8

Open Space & Recreation Plan - Summary 

2023 Open Space & Recreation Plan - Summary

“We need the tonic of wildness...At the same time that we are earnest to explore and learn all things, we require that all things be mysterious and unexplorable, that land and sea be indefinitely wild, unsurveyed and unfathomed by us because unfathomable. We can never have enough of nature.”

― Henry David Thoreau, Walden

Every seven (or so) years, the Town of Franklin reexamines and updates its Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). Required by Massachusetts, the OSRP is a comprehensive plan for the Town’s many Conservation and Recreation Areas and other public and publicly accessible Open Spaces, and serves as a framework to guide policy decisions by the Town around the management, maintenance and enhancement of existing Open Spaces and Recreational Areas, as well as potential investments in and development of new Open Spaces and Recreational Areas. 

Each update of the OSRP is intended to memorialize past achievements, to highlight efforts that are ongoing, and to provide a roadmap for the implementation of the Town’s Open Space and Recreation goals and priorities over the succeeding seven-year period – in other words, “where are you, where you would like to go, and how might you get there.”1

Franklin’s initial OSRP, from 2001, encompassed Franklin and two other communities, Bellingham and Blackstone, and addressed the region as well as each community. That plan was subsequently updated in 2008 and, most recently, in 2016. That most recent OSRP update, from 2016, laid the groundwork for the Town’s adoption of the Community Preservation Act (CPA) in November of 2020, and the subsequent acquisitions by the Town of the Maple Hill Conservation Area and Schmidt’s Farm, totaling approximately 200 acres, using CPA funding. 

The 2016 OSRP update had the foresight to prioritize the health of the Town’s surface and groundwater resource areas, while protecting priority habitats and enhancing biodiversity amidst the rapidly accelerating effects of climate change. It called for investing in updates to the Town’s playgrounds, fields and athletics facilities with a particular focus on promoting greater accessibility.

However, for all of its virtue and vision, Franklin’s 2016 OSRP update could not have predicted the onset of a global pandemic. In the dark days of the coronavirus pandemic, the Town’s Open Space resources were a vital tonic, and lifeline, for those looking to escape the isolation of their homes. It is fitting, then, that as the federal state of emergency was lifted in May of 2023, and amidst a renewed appreciation for the outdoors, the Town was well into the process of reviewing and updating its OSRP – assessing where we are since the 2016 update, where we would like to steer the Town’s Open Space and Recreation priorities over the next seven years, and how to accomplish those new and renewed goals.

The Franklin Conservation Department and Franklin Conservation Commission set out to address those questions over the course of two dozen public hearings and information sessions held from January through June of 2023, including bi-weekly stakeholder meetings, bi-weekly office hours, and three public hearings. More than 100 stakeholder groups were invited to participate in the OSRP update, and many were active participants throughout. The Franklin Recreation Department was a key partner in the preparation of this 2023 OSRP update, and the Conservation Department and Commission were also assisted by Franklin’s Department of Planning and Community Development, Building and Inspectional Services, the GIS Department, Public Works Department, Franklin Public Schools, and the Franklin Senior Center, among others who were instrumental in the OSRP process. 

Representatives of Franklin’s Agricultural Commission, Commission on Persons with Disabilities, and Town Council were also actively engaged throughout the public process and have helped to shape the 2023 OSRP update. Lastly, state and nonprofit organizations, including representatives of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Metacomet Land Trust graciously lent their expertise and input. More than 700 residents provided detailed feedback via a citizen participation questionnaire that was initially distributed in February of 2023. The 2023 OSRP update is truly the product of community-wide input and the community’s vision for the future of Franklin’s Open and Recreational spaces.

Based on that collective feedback, the Conservation Department and Commission have developed the 2023 OSRP update, including updated goals, objectives, and an action plan for the succeeding seven-year period. In addition, a re-evaluation of the accessibility of the Town's Open Space and Recreation facilities was conducted (see Appendix D), an inventory of the Town's Open Space, Recreation, and Conservation properties (see Appendix C) was updated, and descriptions of the Town's substantial resources were compiled, updated and included in the 2023 OSRP update.

Since the 2016 OSRP update was approved, substantial progress has been made on the goals and objectives that were highlighted in that plan. Among them are:

a. Acquired the Riverbend Open Space Area, and converted other Town-owned parcels to the Conservation Commission for designation as Conservation lands.

b. Adopted the CPA in 2020, and utilized CPA funding to (1) acquire and preserve the Maple Hill Conservation Area as forest area and public Open Space; and (2) acquire and enable the continued agricultural use of Schmidt’s Farm, one of Franklin’s legacy farms, in addition to potential future community uses.

c. Partnered with DCR to improve and extend the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) to Grove Street in Franklin, and separately constructed a shared use path along portions of Grove Street, with an additional phase of the Grove Street shared use path currently underway.

d. Revitalized the DelCarte Conservation Area through the successful treatment of invasive species within DelCarte’s north and south ponds, the implementation of the Biodiversity and Buffer Zone Restoration Project in 2022-23, and through increased community engagement and improved signage throughout DelCarte.

e. Installed and updated signage and recycling receptacles at all public fields and Open Space areas.

f. Performed a parking analysis of Open Space areas.

g. Added sidewalks along portions of Chestnut Street, Pleasant Street, Beaver Street and Lincoln Street.

Additionally, the following projects and improvements to the Town’s Recreational facilities have been completed since the 2016 OSRP update:

a. Installation of new playground at DelCarte Conservation Area (2017).

b. Improvements made to King Street Memorial Playground (2019), with master plan for King Street Memorial Park currently underway.

c. Installation of new playground equipment (Vendetti Playground, 2021) and fitness course (2023) at Beaver Pond, along with resurfacing of Beaver Pond athletic fields.

d. Installation of new playground at Henry “Ski” Faenza Memorial Playground (formerly Nason Street Tot Lot)

e. Improvements to Fletcher Field Playground (anticipated in 2023).

The 2023 OSRP includes numerous goals, objectives and proposed actions that are the result of feedback and input received over the course of the above-referenced public stakeholder sessions, informal office hours, public hearings and other meetings with Town personnel; through letters, emails, and other outreach from residents and stakeholder groups; and through the responses to the citizen participation questionnaire.

The goals, objectives and proposed actions resulting from the Open Space and Recreation planning process are oriented around three principal themes: inclusivity and connectivity, growth, and sustainability. The Conservation Department and Commission believe these goals reflect the priorities of the Town’s residents:

(1) Inclusivity & Connectivity: As the Town looks to enhance its existing open and Recreational spaces and plan for future improvements to those spaces, the Town should do so with a particular emphasis on expanding access to and awareness of those spaces, especially for the elderly, persons with disabilities and families with young children. Along those same lines, the Town should develop strategies to promote walkable and bikeable connections between existing open and Recreational spaces, particularly with respect to spaces where there is little available parking, so as to facilitate the use of those spaces by individuals who don’t live in the immediate neighborhood.

(2) Growth: The Town should identify opportunities to grow participation and involvement in the Town’s open and Recreational spaces, including by providing space for individuals and activities that may be currently underserved. For example, this may include space for community agriculture and associated educational opportunities, as well as for up-and- coming sports such as pickleball and cricket, which are growing in popularity in the region but lack adequate space relative to regional demand for facilities.

 

(3) Sustainability: During periods of the summer and fall of 2020 and the summer of 2022, the Town was experiencing a “critical drought” as classified by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. As the effects of climate change continue to be felt more acutely, the Town should continue to promote sustainability and prioritize the protection of the Town’s natural resources, including conservation areas, wetland resource areas and forests, all of which serve as a bulwark against global warming.

The OSRP’s implementation, and achievement of the above goals, will require the commitment of a broad variety of organizations and individuals, including non-profit organizations, state agencies, resident volunteers, and Town departments, boards, commissions, and committees. Through the combined efforts of all parties mentioned above the Town feels confident that the OSRP can be implemented to meet the prescribed goals over the seven-year planning period.

1 Massachusetts Open Space and Recreation Planner’s Workbook, last revised March 2008 (https://www.mass.gov/doc/open-space-and-Recreation-plan-workbook/download).

 

Shared from the Open Space & Recreation Plan update for comment

https://www.franklinma.gov/system/files/uploads/2023_osrp_draft_for_comment_0.pdf

Comments on the plan can be submitted ->

https://forms.gle/SJZKH43xj6JkAVPX8

Open Space & Recreation Plan - Summary 

2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan - Goals and Objectives

The goals and objectives for Franklin’s 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan are the product of extensive public input and comments, as well as close coordination and extensive planning by Town staff, led by the Conservation Department and also including the Department of Planning and Community Development, the Recreation Department, the Public Works Department, Building and Inspectional Services, the GIS Department, and Franklin Public Schools, among others.

In particular, the OSRP goals and objectives reflect an analysis of the results of the Citizen Participation Survey, which provided the Conservation Department and Commission with data on the current usage of the Town’s Open Space and Recreation Areas, and residents’ viewpoints on issues such as conservation and protection of the Town’s natural resources; the availability, accessibility and condition of passive and active Recreation Areas and Open Spaces; and the need for improved connectivity between and among the Town’s Recreation Areas and Open Spaces.

Information gathered from the survey helped the Commission Department and Commission formulate goals and objectives that address residents’ desire for things such as improved accessibility (for example, a greater number of respondents (139) responded that they were “dissatisfied” or “very dissatisfied” with availability of Recreational spaces for persons with disabilities than those who responded as being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with such availability (117)), better connectivity (64% of respondents rate accessibility to Open Space, natural areas and/or Recreation destinations by walking or biking as “very important”), improving existing conservation lands for Recreation, habitat and biodiversity (83% of respondents rate this as either a medium priority or high priority), and acquiring conservation lands for passive Recreation (70% of respondents rate this as either a medium priority or high priority). A slight majority of respondents (55%) rated the acquisition or construction of additional Recreation facilities as a medium or high priority, whereas a significant majority (80%) rated improving existing Recreational facilities as a medium or high priority.

The survey responses, as well as feedback generated during the course of the Conservation Department and Commission’s bi-weekly stakeholder meetings, office hours, and public hearings, were compiled, assessed and used to formulate the goals and objectives of the 2023 OSRP update, centered around the three central pillars of inclusivity and connectivity, growth of existing passive and active Recreational opportunities, and sustainability and protection of natural resources. These goals and objectives, broken out into specific categories of action items below, are meant to be cohesive and complementary of each other and created to address the desires, needs and concerns of the residents of the Town of Franklin regarding Open Space and Recreation.

The goals and objectives of this Plan are not designed to operate in a vacuum, but rather to be pursued in conjunction with the goals and objectives of other land use documents especially the Town’s forthcoming 2023-24 Master Plan update.

 

The following goals and objectives are identified to improve the quality of life for residents at neighborhood, town and regional level:

GOAL 1: Increase public awareness of Open Space and Recreation opportunities in Franklin.

Objective 1.1: Install maps and directional signage at Open Space and Recreation Areas, including signage identifying and directing visitors to walking/hiking trails, bike paths and bike lanes, and interconnected or nearby Open Spaces and Recreational areas, as well as signage (to the extent not already installed) which can identify characteristics of Open Spaces including unique flora and fauna, legacy trees, native animal species, and other pertinent information.

Objective 1.2: Create educational and/or outdoor programs to educate citizens about the environment and natural habitats in Franklin, as well as to promote agricultural engagement with the community, including through partnerships with Franklin High School, Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School, Norfolk Aggie, Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts, Franklin Future Leaders, local sports teams, and other organizations.

Objective 1.3: Assist schools and other organizations with environmental science, conservation and sustainability education.

Objective 1.4: Create a “Friends of Franklin Conservation” organization to encourage volunteer efforts to steward natural resources and sponsor town events to promote appreciation, awareness and utilization of Open Space to foster a community sense of identification with the land and resources.

GOAL 2: Promote, preserve and enhance existing Town Open Space resources.

Objective 2.1: Create a plan for prioritization and acquisition of Chapter 61, 61A, and 61B properties, and ensure the availability of adequate CPA and Open Space funding for the acquisition and preservation of such properties if and as they become available to the Town.

Objective 2.2: Prioritize land owned by the Town and managed by the Conservation Commission for development of resiliency improvements, improved trails and walking paths, increased public access (with a particular emphasis on accessibility to persons with disabilities), and approval of conservation restrictions to ensure the land will be permanently protected.

Objective 2.3: Create a master plan for the Maple Hill parcel, which should at minimum include the following: identifying and constructing appropriate and accessible trail heads and corresponding parking facilities and locations; promoting public awareness (including through off-site directional signage); balancing public access with the private property rights of adjacent neighborhoods; assessing the existing trail network; and promoting forest management best practices.

Objective 2.4: Create a master plan for Schmidt’s Farm, which should at minimum include the following: preserving the legacy agricultural use of Schmidt’s Farm, including studying the implementation of a town-managed community garden (similar to King Street Memorial), and/or town-leased agricultural plots (see, e.g., Norfolk Community Organic Farm); studying and identifying appropriate public access to Schmidt’s Farm, including studying existing trails and implementing new trails where appropriate; restoring the existing barn, and assessing potential future uses, including as an educational/community engagement facility (e.g., in collaboration with programs at Norfolk Aggie and Tri-County Regional), while celebrating and preserving the Schmidt Family legacy; and assessing potential partnerships with governmental and nonprofit organizations around preservation and wildlife management at Schmidt’s Farm (including potentially providing for wildlife resettlement).

Objective 2.5: Explore the creation of an independent, nonprofit land trust comprised of Franklin residents to hold conservation restrictions on Maple Hill and Schmidt’s Farm, and to have a role in the oversite and day-to-day management of Maple Hill and Schmidt’s Farm.

GOAL 3: Maximize Recreational opportunities to meet the community’s evolving needs by maintaining current inventory of facilities and programs and by providing new facilities and programs for both active and passive Recreation.

Objective 3.1: Maintain and improve current Recreation Areas and provide new Recreation opportunities for residents of all ages and levels of ability. In particular, as the Town continues to implement capital improvements at facilities such as Henry “Ski” Faenza Memorial Playground and Beaver Pond (currently underway/recently completed), Fletcher Field Playground (est. in 2023), King Street Memorial Park (est. in 2024), Dacey Playground (est. in 2025), and as the Town/Recreation Department assesses future needs, the Town should prioritize accessibility improvements such as improved surfacing, playground equipment that is designed to be inclusive to persons with disabilities, and the construction of permanent, accessible restroom facilities.

Objective 3.2: Increase usage of existing Recreational spaces and modify existing Recreational space as the needs of the Town require and evolve. In particular, the Recreation Department should assess the demand for its existing programming and for programs/sports that are currently not served or are underserved, or where demand is anticipated to increase over the next seven years, which assessment should inform the development of potential new facilities or modifications to existing Recreational facilities.

Objective 3.3: Assess the feasibility of additional/improved access points for canoes, kayaks and boats to utilize the Charles River and Mine Brook and work with the Charles River Meadowlands to facilitate and promote awareness of these access points.

 

Objective 3.4: Increase connectivity to and between Franklin’s Recreation Areas, conservation areas, and Open Space including safe walking and bicycle linkages through the creation of a cohesive “Emerald Necklace” linking and promoting access to the Town’s Open Spaces and conservation areas. Connectivity and access improvements should place a particular emphasis on improved access for the elderly, persons with disabilities, and families with young children.

Objective 3.5: Work with DCR and others to continue to increase access to and improvements of the SNETT and State Forest Trail, in particular by assessing the feasibility of extending the SNETT from Grove Street into downtown Franklin through the potential acquisition of property rights over the balance of the former CSX right of way, which has since been acquired by the MBTA/Massachusetts Department of Transportation. Any such expansion of the SNETT should prioritize the construction of surfacing that is accessible to wheelchairs.

Objective 3.6: Assess opportunities for the development of a youth center to provide a meeting place for teens to congregate and participate in indoor sports, gaming and conversation, and for additional indoor Recreational facilities to ease the lack of available indoor facility space. This may include exploring the feasibility of expanding and/or replacing the existing Recreation Department gymnasium, as well as through partnerships with other municipalities and private organizations to increase access to indoor facilities in the region.

GOAL 4: Protect natural, historical and cultural resources and maintain Franklin's New England character.

Objective 4.1: Preserve natural resources for the protection of priority habitats so as to enhance biodiversity which will help sustain native plant and wildlife species and improve the quality and health of natural infrastructure, including through the implementation and completion of Forest Stewardship Plans for app qualifying Open Space areas.

Objective 4.2: Seek the approval of Franklin voters to expand Community Preservation Act funding.

Objective 4.3: Implement growth management techniques that will help to preserve the Town's natural, historic and cultural resources, including through the adoption of updated bylaws addressing/expanding the protection of trees and water resources, and by promoting the sustainable design of public facilities and improvements.

GOAL 5: Preserve and Protect the Town’s Water Resources.

Objective 5.1: Prioritize water bodies in Town for ecological studies to determine overall health of the water body and long term management strategies and programs.

Shared from the Open Space & Recreation Plan update for comment

https://www.franklinma.gov/system/files/uploads/2023_osrp_draft_for_comment_0.pdf

Comments on the plan can be submitted ->

https://forms.gle/SJZKH43xj6JkAVPX8

Open Space & Recreation Plan - Summary 

The DRAFT 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan - Open for Public Comment through July 12, 2023

The DRAFT 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan is open for public comment through July 12, 2023.

You can find the plan on line ->     

https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/files/private/2023-draft-open-space-and-recreation-plan

You can submit your comments ->  https://forms.gle/SJZKH43xj6JkAVPX8

The DRAFT 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan - Open for Public Comment through July 12, 2023

For additional info, please visit the Open Space & Recreation Plan page ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/pages/2023-open-space-and-recreation-plan-update

The DRAFT 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan

Draft 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan Comment Period - DELAYED

Please note that the comment period for the draft 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan is delayed until later this week. More details to follow.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/draft-2023-open-space-and-recreation-plan-comment-period-delayed

Draft 2023 Open Space and Recreation Plan Comment Period - DELAYED

More info on the Open Space & Recreation Plan update ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/pages/2023-open-space-and-recreation-plan-update

Agenda for the initial Master Plan Committee meeting Wednesday, June 14, 2023 - 6:30 PM

Master Plan Committee 

Agenda for June 14, 2023 6:30 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building Town Council Chambers

355 East Central Street

1. Swearing in of Master Plan Committee Members 

- by Town Clerk Nancy Danello

2. Introductions

a. Town Council

b. Planning Board

c. Zoning Board

d. Conservation Commission

e. Members At-Large

f. BETA & Barrett

3. Rules, Policies, and Procedures

a. In-House Communications, Town Emails, and Data Collection storage

i. Google Town Emails, use of.

ii. Google Drive for DATA/Information Storage (Amy Love)

b. Robert's Rules of Order

c. State Open Meeting Law

i. Open Meeting Law Guide and Educational Materials | Mass.gov

d. Commonwealth of Massachusetts, General Law on Master Plans

i. MGL Section 81D: Master plan; economic development supplement

4. Current 2013 Master Plan Document

a. 2013 Master Plan Document

b. Goals & Policies

c. Land Use

d. Natural, Cultural and Historic Resources

e. Open Space and Recreation

f. Circulation

g. Housing

h. Economic Development

i. Community Services and Facilities

j. Implementation Plan

5. Committee Charge:

a. Master Plan Charge

b. Five Sub-Committees

i. Land Use & Zoning Subcommittee (6 Members)

ii. Housing & Economic Development (3 Members)

iii. Community Services, Facilities, & Circulation (3 Members)

iv. Sustainability (3 Members)

v. Open Space & Recreation and Natural, Cultural, & Historic Resources (4 Members)

The agenda doc also contains remote participation info ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/june_14_2023_mp_agenda_0.pdf

 The Master Plan update Committee page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/master-plan-update-committee

Agenda for the initial Master Plan Committee meeting Wednesday, June 14, 2023 - 6:30 PM