By Meredith McCulloch
Roy Sorenson, Director of Public Works, requested a review of plans for two additional fields and realignment of the existing baseball field at the Selectmen’s meeting on October 20. Wetland remediation at Page Field, required by a variance granted by the Conservation Commission, must be the first step. The fields will be located on property adjacent to Liljegren Way behind the high school.
In January the Selectmen had approved a design of two natural turf fields, but the project was delayed by a lawsuit by an abutter challenging the variance. In April the Superior court ruled in favor of the Town and the project can now go forward.
Current pricing estimates are $120,000 for design and $1.4 million for construction. The question was raised as to whether one or both fields should be artificial turf. Sorenson reported that the designer did not recommend different types of fields on that site. After some discussion, Selectman Mark Siegenthaler commented that there was a thorough discussion before the vote in January to install two natural grass fields. “What is new and compelling that would make us change our position?” he asked.
Sorenson asked whether the infrastructure for lighting should be considered at this time. It was pointed out that lighting had not been part of the plan, and that extensive study would be required as to the impact of lighting on homes in the area.
The Selectmen asked for a contract based on the January guidelines.
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