Lydia Lodynsky
Lydia Lodynsky's projects
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Supported a comment by Nate Kemp on
Envision Concord
5 years, 4 months ago
Supported a comment by Judith Hill on
Envision Concord
5 years, 4 months ago
Judith Hill
We won't stop people from commuting through Concord but we can slow them down so they pay attention and are more aware of the crosswalks.
We won't stop people from commuting through Concord but we can slow them down so they pay attention and are more aware of the crosswalks.
Supported a comment by Ann Sussman on
Envision Concord
5 years, 4 months ago
Ann Sussman
Concord needs to make safe walking + biking a priority; this means more sidewalks + bike lanes + lower speed limits throughout town (25 mph max). (Lexington, Arlington, Cambridge have already done this.) It shouldn't be so scary going from one side of town to the other on foot or bike! Concord needs to make sure its planning is around people and public physical + social health - not around cars (the driving concern in the 20th century) (Ask, what would Thoreau do?!) It needs to look what other communities have done to make their planning less car-centric (like Copenhagen!) Concord also need to do more 'evidence-based' design, copying prototypes that worked well in other communities both here and abroad, and importing them. It also needs to engage in post-occupancy evaluation of completed plans + developments; assessing how well a new project turned out so the town can learn from its best practices + avoid mistakes. This doesn't seem to happen much now and it shows; the quality of most recent new commercial and public buildings in town is lower than in the past. The future of design and planning will be data-driven with key metrics gleaned from measuring the positive or negative human experience of place; we need to get ready for that now!
Concord needs to make safe walking + biking a priority; this means more sidewalks + bike lanes + lower speed limits throughout town (25 mph max). (Lexington, Arlington, Cambridge have already done this.) It shouldn't be so scary going from one side of town to the other on foot or bike! Concord needs to make sure its planning is around people and public physical + social health - not around cars (the driving concern in the 20th century) (Ask, what would Thoreau do?!) It needs to look what other communities have done to make their planning less car-centric (like Copenhagen!) Concord also need to do more 'evidence-based' design, copying prototypes that worked well in other communities both here and abroad, and importing them. It also needs to engage in post-occupancy evaluation of completed plans + developments; assessing how well a new project turned out so the town can learn from its best practices + avoid mistakes. This doesn't seem to happen much now and it shows; the quality of most recent new commercial and public buildings in town is lower than in the past. The future of design and planning will be data-driven with key metrics gleaned from measuring the positive or negative human experience of place; we need to get ready for that now!
Supported a comment by Lori Pazaris on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Lori Pazaris
Our open space provides value not only to residents but to the entire region. It is difficult to place monetary value on the preservation of open space and other natural resources because it serves a number of purposes that fit the category "quality of life", namely recreation, inspiration and healing, but open space, plays a critical role in modulation of climate extremes such as extreme storms (e.g. flood control) and preservation of small water cycles (e.g. flood mitigation), providing wildlife habitat, and protecting important ecosystems. Open space supports and protects life.
Our open space provides value not only to residents but to the entire region. It is difficult to place monetary value on the preservation of open space and other natural resources because it serves a number of purposes that fit the category "quality of life", namely recreation, inspiration and healing, but open space, plays a critical role in modulation of climate extremes such as extreme storms (e.g. flood control) and preservation of small water cycles (e.g. flood mitigation), providing wildlife habitat, and protecting important ecosystems. Open space supports and protects life.
Supported a comment by Bob Andrews on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Bob Andrews
I very much enjoy the diverse conservation land and town forest that exists in Concord. I walk frequently in these areas. I also enjoy the Beede Center, especially in cold weather when I prefer not to walk outside. I enjoy going to the playgrounds with my grandchildren, especially Rideout. I have enjoyed riding my bike on the Bruce Freeman Trail where it has been completed and am looking forward to its completion in Concord. Although I am in my eighties I still like both walking and riding my bike. I do not need to see a lot of expansion of what exists for recreational areas. I just want reassurance that they will remain available and will be maintained, leaving in place as much of the natural ecosystems as possible.
I very much enjoy the diverse conservation land and town forest that exists in Concord. I walk frequently in these areas. I also enjoy the Beede Center, especially in cold weather when I prefer not to walk outside. I enjoy going to the playgrounds with my grandchildren, especially Rideout. I have enjoyed riding my bike on the Bruce Freeman Trail where it has been completed and am looking forward to its completion in Concord. Although I am in my eighties I still like both walking and riding my bike. I do not need to see a lot of expansion of what exists for recreational areas. I just want reassurance that they will remain available and will be maintained, leaving in place as much of the natural ecosystems as possible.
Supported a comment by Jessica Harvey on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Jessica Harvey
Hi Tanya,
As a Realtor and someone who lives in a transitional neighborhood, I can tell you that the developers were the highest offers on the Capes in my neighborhood. Now, the Capes have become a high demand commodity. People want the Capes for downsizing and for starters, for which they are paying more than the developers at this point. One thing to keep in mind, the developers are not the bad guys. They pay what the seller wants and for them to make money, they have to build a home that will give them a return on their investment...as, in any business.
Hi Tanya,
As a Realtor and someone who lives in a transitional neighborhood, I can tell you that the developers were the highest offers on the Capes in my neighborhood. Now, the Capes have become a high demand commodity. People want the Capes for downsizing and for starters, for which they are paying more than the developers at this point. One thing to keep in mind, the developers are not the bad guys. They pay what the seller wants and for them to make money, they have to build a home that will give them a return on their investment...as, in any business.
Supported a comment by Brad Hubbard-Nelson on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Brad Hubbard-Nelson
I agree with the statement that older homes are not necessarily 'fuel suckers', since in most cases one can improve home efficiency greatly (taking advantage of rebates from either MassSave or the Town of Concord to help pay for it). These smaller homes serve a wider, more diverse market which is not well served by the $1M+ new homes. I see nothing wrong with a home buyer deciding to add to or replace a home to suit their needs, but the trend of buying and demolishing small homes to build spec houses - essentially deciding what the market should be - does not serve this town well. Those spec houses, generally built to code-minimum standards, are not necessarily more energy efficient than a smaller home that has been upgraded.
I agree with the statement that older homes are not necessarily 'fuel suckers', since in most cases one can improve home efficiency greatly (taking advantage of rebates from either MassSave or the Town of Concord to help pay for it). These smaller homes serve a wider, more diverse market which is not well served by the $1M+ new homes. I see nothing wrong with a home buyer deciding to add to or replace a home to suit their needs, but the trend of buying and demolishing small homes to build spec houses - essentially deciding what the market should be - does not serve this town well. Those spec houses, generally built to code-minimum standards, are not necessarily more energy efficient than a smaller home that has been upgraded.
Supported a comment by India Hoeschen-Stein on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
India Hoeschen-Stein
Jessica - I don't agree that these 60 year old ranch houses are fuel suckers. I worked as an engineer in the energy industry for many years and most (if now all these houses) were insulated and retrofitted during the 90's under the demand-side management era. The gas utilities were offering huge subsidies for energy improvements for many years.
I definitely agree that for folks selling their house they will take the best offer. Unfortunately, small, affordable energy efficient houses are not being built in their place. Across the street from me a 960 sqft (3 bedrm, 1 bath) selling for $580,000 was replaced by a 4,600 sqft home with 4 bedrms and one bath costing $1.6 million. At the rate that this is happening across Town I can guarantee that Concord will see it's energy use (and cost) rise and age and income diversity will also disappear.
Jessica - I don't agree that these 60 year old ranch houses are fuel suckers. I worked as an engineer in the energy industry for many years and most (if now all these houses) were insulated and retrofitted during the 90's under the demand-side management era. The gas utilities were offering huge subsidies for energy improvements for many years.
I definitely agree that for folks selling their house they will take the best offer. Unfortunately, small, affordable energy efficient houses are not being built in their place. Across the street from me a 960 sqft (3 bedrm, 1 bath) selling for $580,000 was replaced by a 4,600 sqft home with 4 bedrms and one bath costing $1.6 million. At the rate that this is happening across Town I can guarantee that Concord will see it's energy use (and cost) rise and age and income diversity will also disappear.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Tanya Gailus
It is not necessarily true that the original seller wins either. There is no need to assume that an average family or starter couple (or even a middle aged empty nester couple) would not pay good market value for a modest ranch in a treesy setting with other local advantages, - whereas a developer would try to bargain the price down since the existing building would be of no value to them.
It is not necessarily true that the original seller wins either. There is no need to assume that an average family or starter couple (or even a middle aged empty nester couple) would not pay good market value for a modest ranch in a treesy setting with other local advantages, - whereas a developer would try to bargain the price down since the existing building would be of no value to them.
Supported a comment by Judy Hill on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Judy Hill
Thank you India H, for including Mr. Boynton,s response. The home-replacements projects he gives for examples seem to serve the opposite of diversity. The original seller of a ranch wins, the buyer (eg., Ms. Boynton), in order to put up a larger new home, wins when she sells the house, but the town does not win. Developers can't keep building bigger, $1m-plus homes and expect teachers and firemen to buy them. They will be bought, instead, by two and three-car commuter families making large incomes, and Concord becomes even more a bedroom community, adding citizens who aren't invested in local issues, other than being sure their children's schools remain great.
Thank you India H, for including Mr. Boynton,s response. The home-replacements projects he gives for examples seem to serve the opposite of diversity. The original seller of a ranch wins, the buyer (eg., Ms. Boynton), in order to put up a larger new home, wins when she sells the house, but the town does not win. Developers can't keep building bigger, $1m-plus homes and expect teachers and firemen to buy them. They will be bought, instead, by two and three-car commuter families making large incomes, and Concord becomes even more a bedroom community, adding citizens who aren't invested in local issues, other than being sure their children's schools remain great.
Supported a comment by India Hoeschen-Stein on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
India Hoeschen-Stein
Yes, all the affordable ranch houses are being replaced by almost identical looking mini-McMansions that are 3-6 times the square footage. As a result affordable housing is disappearing and our carbon footprint & energy demand/consumption are skyrocketing. My neighborhood (Elsinore Street) has completely transformed in the last 3 years and soon there will be no ranch houses left.
Yes, all the affordable ranch houses are being replaced by almost identical looking mini-McMansions that are 3-6 times the square footage. As a result affordable housing is disappearing and our carbon footprint & energy demand/consumption are skyrocketing. My neighborhood (Elsinore Street) has completely transformed in the last 3 years and soon there will be no ranch houses left.
Supported a comment by Jeffrey Kerr on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Jeffrey Kerr
Concord has allowed developers to have their way with the town. Unlike other towns in the Western suburbs, Concord has been slow to build protective regulations and reluctant to enforce the rules it makes. A quick glance at the Concord Journal, basically an advertising arm of the real estate companies, gives a useful snapshot of the many ways the town is being mined. It would not take that much to create neighborhood friendly requirements that both allow for new building and preserve the aesthetics of the town. Its not a good thing that Concord is being filled in by the same three huge Colonials over and over and over.
Concord has allowed developers to have their way with the town. Unlike other towns in the Western suburbs, Concord has been slow to build protective regulations and reluctant to enforce the rules it makes. A quick glance at the Concord Journal, basically an advertising arm of the real estate companies, gives a useful snapshot of the many ways the town is being mined. It would not take that much to create neighborhood friendly requirements that both allow for new building and preserve the aesthetics of the town. Its not a good thing that Concord is being filled in by the same three huge Colonials over and over and over.
Supported a comment by Judy Hill on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Judy Hill
Zoning regulations and setbacks from rivers and ponds are there for a purpose. It's always disappointing to see builders applying for exceptions, particularly for their projects near rivers and within buffer zones. Then to see those exceptions allowed by Planning and/or ZBA.
Zoning regulations and setbacks from rivers and ponds are there for a purpose. It's always disappointing to see builders applying for exceptions, particularly for their projects near rivers and within buffer zones. Then to see those exceptions allowed by Planning and/or ZBA.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Thank you for this comment Lydia. A similar perspective I have is that people usually consider ownership of trees (and their fates) an "individual right." What is often not recognized is that many peoples right to enjoy trees and benefits is ALSO an individual right.. As such, I find it a misnomer to pit "individual rights" against "communal benefits". It really is individual rights vs individual rights. I know this is a slightly different nuance than your recognition of trees as their own living beings, but process-wise, I think it is relevant to the discourse on matters like this.
Thank you for this comment Lydia. A similar perspective I have is that people usually consider ownership of trees (and their fates) an "individual right." What is often not recognized is that many peoples right to enjoy trees and benefits is ALSO an individual right.. As such, I find it a misnomer to pit "individual rights" against "communal benefits". It really is individual rights vs individual rights. I know this is a slightly different nuance than your recognition of trees as their own living beings, but process-wise, I think it is relevant to the discourse on matters like this.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
again - that is access via a website. Not everyone in this town goes to
the web for information, especially with documents so long.
the web for information, especially with documents so long.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
how are copies of the draft supplied to individuals who do not have access to the website?
Supported a comment by Andy Smith on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Andy Smith
Provide benches or picnic tables in Chamberlin Park and other public spaces around Concord Center. There are too few places to sit to rest or eat lunch.
Provide benches or picnic tables in Chamberlin Park and other public spaces around Concord Center. There are too few places to sit to rest or eat lunch.
Supported a comment by mark gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
mark gailus
Let the Long Range Plan specifically include a goal of preserving nature in residential areas. The benefits of nature need not be restricted to "conservation lands." Neighborhoods with mature tree canopies and mini-meadows provide wildlife corridors and habitat, benefits to human health, and nature instruction to those who pay attention. They multiply the benefits of adjacent conservation lands. Make it a goal to support pollinator and bird friendly native plantings, and to reduce general pesticide use and avoid lawn care methods that require gasoline powered equipment, fungicides, and chemical fertilizers. All great for "Town Character" and "Sustainability."
Let the Long Range Plan specifically include a goal of preserving nature in residential areas. The benefits of nature need not be restricted to "conservation lands." Neighborhoods with mature tree canopies and mini-meadows provide wildlife corridors and habitat, benefits to human health, and nature instruction to those who pay attention. They multiply the benefits of adjacent conservation lands. Make it a goal to support pollinator and bird friendly native plantings, and to reduce general pesticide use and avoid lawn care methods that require gasoline powered equipment, fungicides, and chemical fertilizers. All great for "Town Character" and "Sustainability."
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
if only more of us would consider trees and land as not something that is owned, but rather, something that is leased while we are on this earth, on that piece of property. Trees often outlive generations. They don't belong to us.
Supported a comment by Bob Andrews on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Bob Andrews
I think Dorrie is on target here. When small, relatively affordable houses are replaced by huge, expensive ones, we are making Concord a less desirable and affordable place to live. This is a destructive trend that should not be allowed to continue if we mean what we say when we talk about meeting human needs in a fair and equitable way. A sustainable town is one that adequately houses old and young, rich and poor.
I think Dorrie is on target here. When small, relatively affordable houses are replaced by huge, expensive ones, we are making Concord a less desirable and affordable place to live. This is a destructive trend that should not be allowed to continue if we mean what we say when we talk about meeting human needs in a fair and equitable way. A sustainable town is one that adequately houses old and young, rich and poor.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Tanya Gailus
The Long Range Plan Committee should please post soon the plan drafts that its own chairs provided towards the final document, as well as committee member edits to these. This circulation of these materials among committee members was carried out outside of open meetings (per chairs' described plan on Feb.23), via using consultant as an intermediary, which is very likely still against the Open Meeting Law. It is also simply ethical for the public to know what the CLRPC itself recommended, given all the private interviews and meetings consultant had with select developers and business interests. Authenticity is one thing, secrecy and opacity is another. The Attorney General recently found that the CLRPC had violated the Open Meeting Law during survey preparation. http://www.oml.ago.state.ma.us It is also ironic that this webpage service, coUrbanize, boasts (rightly) in its publicity that contributors have accountability because we sign in with our names and emails, whereas the consultant boasted (Sept 8, 2017) the utmost privacy they provide to the developers they interviewed.
The Long Range Plan Committee should please post soon the plan drafts that its own chairs provided towards the final document, as well as committee member edits to these. This circulation of these materials among committee members was carried out outside of open meetings (per chairs' described plan on Feb.23), via using consultant as an intermediary, which is very likely still against the Open Meeting Law. It is also simply ethical for the public to know what the CLRPC itself recommended, given all the private interviews and meetings consultant had with select developers and business interests. Authenticity is one thing, secrecy and opacity is another. The Attorney General recently found that the CLRPC had violated the Open Meeting Law during survey preparation. http://www.oml.ago.state.ma.us It is also ironic that this webpage service, coUrbanize, boasts (rightly) in its publicity that contributors have accountability because we sign in with our names and emails, whereas the consultant boasted (Sept 8, 2017) the utmost privacy they provide to the developers they interviewed.
Supported a comment by Judy Hill on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Judy Hill
Such lack of transparency and availability of the long term plan as it is being developed often cause residents like myself to stay home from public meetings when they occur.
Such lack of transparency and availability of the long term plan as it is being developed often cause residents like myself to stay home from public meetings when they occur.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
thank you for your updates along with the link to the AG's response; much appreciated
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 7 months ago
Bill Montague
Small one family homes. On a heated slab foundation, with a deep two car garage for storage, right off the kitchen, to make it easy to shop and bring your groceries in. Then the kitchen would be large family room with dinning table in the same room Perhaps with a fireplace for warmth and comfort. One bathroom. Perhaps 3 bedrooms. One can be used as an office if you like. Newley weds would be able to afford it. It could easily support 2 children. When we get older we could move into such a nice comfortable small home, with neighbors like us. No steps to fall on hence no basement. The fireplace needs a cold air inlet as the smoke filled air goes up the chimney it needs outside air to enter. The clean out door in the bottom of the fire place to have cold air come in. The hearth needs to be at least 12 -16" high so the clean out ceramic liner for the clean out can be accessed from he outside. You could have an ash pit or ash barrel for the ashes. You will find the fire place in winter to be just "The most tolerable third party ", Henry David Thoreau. Concord is the Farmland of the Soul, plant yourself hear, then watch yourself grown, like Emerson and Thoreau. Bill Montague
Small one family homes. On a heated slab foundation, with a deep two car garage for storage, right off the kitchen, to make it easy to shop and bring your groceries in. Then the kitchen would be large family room with dinning table in the same room Perhaps with a fireplace for warmth and comfort. One bathroom. Perhaps 3 bedrooms. One can be used as an office if you like. Newley weds would be able to afford it. It could easily support 2 children. When we get older we could move into such a nice comfortable small home, with neighbors like us. No steps to fall on hence no basement. The fireplace needs a cold air inlet as the smoke filled air goes up the chimney it needs outside air to enter. The clean out door in the bottom of the fire place to have cold air come in. The hearth needs to be at least 12 -16" high so the clean out ceramic liner for the clean out can be accessed from he outside. You could have an ash pit or ash barrel for the ashes. You will find the fire place in winter to be just "The most tolerable third party ", Henry David Thoreau. Concord is the Farmland of the Soul, plant yourself hear, then watch yourself grown, like Emerson and Thoreau. Bill Montague
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 7 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Wildlife preservation has not been specifically covered by the committee so far. A similar view is in Mr. Richard Forman's letter posted by the Town earlier on this site, on November 22. https://res.cloudinary.com/courbanize-production/image/upload/v1/information_plans/etk3arqhxtp8j8ulso35
Mr. Forman states, in his third paragraph:
. "Protect land so that key native species can readily move across town. The rich protected lands of Concord are fundamental resources providing enviable water, wildlife, and walking. A few large areas such as Estabrook Woods support an array of forest-interior species scarce elsewhere, and thus of high importance. But, as a Google Earth image makes clear, Concord’s land is fragmented by buildings,
roads and other features. To survive or thrive, animals “need to” move. Think of amphibians/reptiles moving along soil. Establishing, and protecting, spatial patterns across our town that provide connectivity for wildlife in different directions is critical to maintaining valuable biodiversity in the face of both climate change and ongoing urbanization."
Wildlife preservation has not been specifically covered by the committee so far. A similar view is in Mr. Richard Forman's letter posted by the Town earlier on this site, on November 22. https://res.cloudinary.com/courbanize-production/image/upload/v1/information_plans/etk3arqhxtp8j8ulso35
Mr. Forman states, in his third paragraph:
. "Protect land so that key native species can readily move across town. The rich protected lands of Concord are fundamental resources providing enviable water, wildlife, and walking. A few large areas such as Estabrook Woods support an array of forest-interior species scarce elsewhere, and thus of high importance. But, as a Google Earth image makes clear, Concord’s land is fragmented by buildings,
roads and other features. To survive or thrive, animals “need to” move. Think of amphibians/reptiles moving along soil. Establishing, and protecting, spatial patterns across our town that provide connectivity for wildlife in different directions is critical to maintaining valuable biodiversity in the face of both climate change and ongoing urbanization."
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 8 months ago
Tanya Gailus
An analysis of the survey the Tree Preservation Subcommittee conducted in 2016:
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/concord/conversations/messages/53795
An analysis of the survey the Tree Preservation Subcommittee conducted in 2016:
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/concord/conversations/messages/53795
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 8 months ago
Tanya Gailus
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/concord/conversations/messages/53795
Here's an analysis of what trees mean to the people of Concord, included in my report on the Tree Preservation Subcommittee survey of 2016. Despite our modest means of distribution, 327 people responded.:The survey analysis is part of the message above to the concord yahoogroups list.
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/concord/conversations/messages/53795
Here's an analysis of what trees mean to the people of Concord, included in my report on the Tree Preservation Subcommittee survey of 2016. Despite our modest means of distribution, 327 people responded.:The survey analysis is part of the message above to the concord yahoogroups list.
Supported a comment by Joan Kennedy on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Joan Kennedy
As global warming and associated weather patterns change, the Town should review how best to protect its still water ponds, wetlands and vernal pools. Practices that were sufficient in the past will most likely be insufficient going forward and thus ecosystems associated with these areas will most likely be adversely impacted.
As global warming and associated weather patterns change, the Town should review how best to protect its still water ponds, wetlands and vernal pools. Practices that were sufficient in the past will most likely be insufficient going forward and thus ecosystems associated with these areas will most likely be adversely impacted.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Tanya Gailus
more outdoor cafes would be nice
more outdoor cafes would be nice
Supported a comment by Melissa McBride on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Melissa McBride
I saw in one of your links all the topics you are addressing, the Healthy Community section is of particular interest to me. I would LOVE to see the conversation start around our communities use of and exposure to wireless radiation, as a significant and important health concern for our wonderful Concord community to learn about, especially as it relates to wireless radiation exposure to our students/children and the roll out of smart meters for all homes that is being planned by the light plant, a serious source of 24/7 powerful radiation that is harming many across the country.
I saw in one of your links all the topics you are addressing, the Healthy Community section is of particular interest to me. I would LOVE to see the conversation start around our communities use of and exposure to wireless radiation, as a significant and important health concern for our wonderful Concord community to learn about, especially as it relates to wireless radiation exposure to our students/children and the roll out of smart meters for all homes that is being planned by the light plant, a serious source of 24/7 powerful radiation that is harming many across the country.
Supported a comment by Todd Benjamin on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Todd Benjamin
Scheduling a meeting between 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on a Friday is contrary to the goals of engaging as many residents as possible. Residents working normal business hours will find attending this meeting difficult. The meeting time of Saturday from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM is marginally better. But many people, especially adults with children in sports and other activities, will find it difficult to attend. I understand that finding times for meetings is always difficult. However, these times seem especially challenging.
Scheduling a meeting between 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on a Friday is contrary to the goals of engaging as many residents as possible. Residents working normal business hours will find attending this meeting difficult. The meeting time of Saturday from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM is marginally better. But many people, especially adults with children in sports and other activities, will find it difficult to attend. I understand that finding times for meetings is always difficult. However, these times seem especially challenging.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Bill Montague
Yes and more benches all over town so people can sit and rest a while.
Yes and more benches all over town so people can sit and rest a while.
Supported a comment by Elissa Brown on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Elissa Brown
Self guided walking tours and apps connecting historic areas and open space, like AcrossLexington.
Self guided walking tours and apps connecting historic areas and open space, like AcrossLexington.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Bill Montague
Create monuments on Monument Square of our most respected Icons such as Thoreau, Emerson, Daniel Chester French, Louisa May Alcott. Sarah Ripley
Then the founders of Concord: Squaw Sachem, Simon Willard, Peter Buckley
Create monuments on Monument Square of our most respected Icons such as Thoreau, Emerson, Daniel Chester French, Louisa May Alcott. Sarah Ripley
Then the founders of Concord: Squaw Sachem, Simon Willard, Peter Buckley
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Tanya Gailus
CLRPC should take charge: The CLRPC needs to run its own public hearings as required by its charge and should not substitute consultant- led gatherings in their place. The CLRPC, not consultant, should formulate initial draft plan. Otherwise change the committee's charge to at least factually reflect what is happening . More public attendance at committee meetings is encouraged.
CLRPC should take charge: The CLRPC needs to run its own public hearings as required by its charge and should not substitute consultant- led gatherings in their place. The CLRPC, not consultant, should formulate initial draft plan. Otherwise change the committee's charge to at least factually reflect what is happening . More public attendance at committee meetings is encouraged.
Supported a comment by Lori Pazaris on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Lori Pazaris
The word sustainability can be defined in terms of leaving our children with the natural resources they will need for a healthy future. Sustainability must be considered and built into all aspects of the comprehensive plan. Energy is just one segment of sustainability. Maintaining and protecting open space using fewer materials in construction and other projects etc are examples.
The word sustainability can be defined in terms of leaving our children with the natural resources they will need for a healthy future. Sustainability must be considered and built into all aspects of the comprehensive plan. Energy is just one segment of sustainability. Maintaining and protecting open space using fewer materials in construction and other projects etc are examples.
Supported a comment by Andy Smith on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Andy Smith
Build an open park with brick/stone pavers and lots of bench seating and plantings in front of the Visitor Center. Concord Center desperately needs outdoor seating and gathering spaces for eating lunch or accommodating larger groups of tourists without clogging the sidewalks. This would make the Visitor Center more visible from Main Street and provide a more welcoming presence for visitors.
Build an open park with brick/stone pavers and lots of bench seating and plantings in front of the Visitor Center. Concord Center desperately needs outdoor seating and gathering spaces for eating lunch or accommodating larger groups of tourists without clogging the sidewalks. This would make the Visitor Center more visible from Main Street and provide a more welcoming presence for visitors.
Supported a comment by Malcolm Bryant on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Malcolm Bryant
Repeating what I said before - Debra’s is for a specialty market, limited and very expensive, and the 7/11 (How many years ago did the White Hen close?) only sells garbage - and very little of that. The West Concord supermarket closed for many reasons, but there is most definitely a market for a new, competitive grocery for the “common person”.
Repeating what I said before - Debra’s is for a specialty market, limited and very expensive, and the 7/11 (How many years ago did the White Hen close?) only sells garbage - and very little of that. The West Concord supermarket closed for many reasons, but there is most definitely a market for a new, competitive grocery for the “common person”.
Supported a comment by Dorrie Kehoe on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Dorrie Kehoe
Yes!! In West Concord there is no longer a grocery store within walking distance of the Center. As Mayor Menino noted, 'Every center needs a grocery store." There are a growing number of older residents of Concord Greene and especially in the winter this need is really significant. The West Concord Shopping Plaza seems a logical place, but the current leases, except for the 7/11 prohibit the sale of grocery items. I think that the Town could work to bring this about--again, perhaps with "incentivizing." This is a top priority for me.
Yes!! In West Concord there is no longer a grocery store within walking distance of the Center. As Mayor Menino noted, 'Every center needs a grocery store." There are a growing number of older residents of Concord Greene and especially in the winter this need is really significant. The West Concord Shopping Plaza seems a logical place, but the current leases, except for the 7/11 prohibit the sale of grocery items. I think that the Town could work to bring this about--again, perhaps with "incentivizing." This is a top priority for me.
Supported a comment by Matthew Johnson on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Matthew Johnson
The "Existing Conditions" presentation that Civic Moxie made at the workshop claimed that Concord's population had grown by 13.4% since 2000. That didn't sound right to me, so I got the town census data from the Town Clerk. It shows Concord's population of 15,537 in 2000 growing to 15,987 in 2016. That's 450 people, or 2.9%, over 16 years. I think it's very important to correct this error, which could mislead readers into thinking that Concord's a fast-growing town, when its population has actually been very stable for the past few decades. (In 1990, the population was 15,424.) I'm not certain, but my guess is that the error came from using US Census data, which counts the MCI Concord prison population. That may have increased substantially as a result of the prison changing from an intake facility to a residential site.
The "Existing Conditions" presentation that Civic Moxie made at the workshop claimed that Concord's population had grown by 13.4% since 2000. That didn't sound right to me, so I got the town census data from the Town Clerk. It shows Concord's population of 15,537 in 2000 growing to 15,987 in 2016. That's 450 people, or 2.9%, over 16 years. I think it's very important to correct this error, which could mislead readers into thinking that Concord's a fast-growing town, when its population has actually been very stable for the past few decades. (In 1990, the population was 15,424.) I'm not certain, but my guess is that the error came from using US Census data, which counts the MCI Concord prison population. That may have increased substantially as a result of the prison changing from an intake facility to a residential site.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Bill Montague
Provide a free Concord Guide book for visitors. With adds in the back by local shops to pay for the publication.
Provide a free Concord Guide book for visitors. With adds in the back by local shops to pay for the publication.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Bill Montague
Decorated Concord Center with flowers on lamp posts and shops like West Concord.
Decorated Concord Center with flowers on lamp posts and shops like West Concord.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Bill Montague
Also encourage shops to install benches in front of their business such as Sally Ann Bakery and Main St. Market and Cafe have.
Also encourage shops to install benches in front of their business such as Sally Ann Bakery and Main St. Market and Cafe have.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Bill Montague
Start up a movie in the Scout House or 51 Walden to show old classic movies. So folks will have a reason to go out and get away from their T.V.s
Start up a movie in the Scout House or 51 Walden to show old classic movies. So folks will have a reason to go out and get away from their T.V.s
Supported a comment by Sarah Bustin on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Sarah Bustin
The Concord Scout House is a beautiful place. It should continue to receive support and maintenance from the Town. Folk dancing run by the New England Folk Festival Association on Thursdays brings many visitors to Concord.
The Concord Scout House is a beautiful place. It should continue to receive support and maintenance from the Town. Folk dancing run by the New England Folk Festival Association on Thursdays brings many visitors to Concord.
Supported a comment by Kevin Neijstrom on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Kevin Neijstrom
Bring trees back to Commonwealth Avenue! Old photos depict a tree-lined street. Our modern street has limited shade and is designed around how many cars we can park along it. It's a great town but could be a more beautiful and useful one.
Bring trees back to Commonwealth Avenue! Old photos depict a tree-lined street. Our modern street has limited shade and is designed around how many cars we can park along it. It's a great town but could be a more beautiful and useful one.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
we should remember to include "wildlife preservation" along with the trees. Perhaps greater emphasis can be placed on "preserving habitat"
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Tanya Gailus
The Tree-Preservation-Subcommittee was duly dissolved after Town-Meeting 2017. There have been delays in implementing the Tree Bylaw. It was sent late to the AG, in July. Was on town website in October. Rules and regulations are still being worked out. A modest bylaw affecting only periphery and only major construction. Meanwhile, unnecessary tree loss is continuing, as simply to allow for a slightly bigger lawn in new construction-not because a house is to be built on that location. I also agree that we need to look into a more comprehensive discussion/bylaw for preserving "significant trees" - like 100yr old oak trees. I don't usually write sentimentally in town matters. But yesterday, such a tree (100 yr. oak) was taken down across the street from us, and it literally sounded like a "cry" as it fell..A number of peripheral tall pine trees were taken down, too, just to expand the future lawn. One has to- and does- respect the existing rights of land owners, including developers. But this is also why our town staff has to act with more diligence in making sure our bylaws are implemented in a timely manner. There is often a lack of communication among town departments as well. So, yes, we need to look into tree preservation in more detail and with more thorough understanding of ecology than the Tree Subcommittee was able to do.- and deal with TM bylaws in a more conscientious manner.
The Tree-Preservation-Subcommittee was duly dissolved after Town-Meeting 2017. There have been delays in implementing the Tree Bylaw. It was sent late to the AG, in July. Was on town website in October. Rules and regulations are still being worked out. A modest bylaw affecting only periphery and only major construction. Meanwhile, unnecessary tree loss is continuing, as simply to allow for a slightly bigger lawn in new construction-not because a house is to be built on that location. I also agree that we need to look into a more comprehensive discussion/bylaw for preserving "significant trees" - like 100yr old oak trees. I don't usually write sentimentally in town matters. But yesterday, such a tree (100 yr. oak) was taken down across the street from us, and it literally sounded like a "cry" as it fell..A number of peripheral tall pine trees were taken down, too, just to expand the future lawn. One has to- and does- respect the existing rights of land owners, including developers. But this is also why our town staff has to act with more diligence in making sure our bylaws are implemented in a timely manner. There is often a lack of communication among town departments as well. So, yes, we need to look into tree preservation in more detail and with more thorough understanding of ecology than the Tree Subcommittee was able to do.- and deal with TM bylaws in a more conscientious manner.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Absolutely. More signs for tourists are needed and some of the existing signs need replacement (peeling paint, splintering wood, etc)
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Bill Montague
Make the signs attractive like Show Concord Grapes on them in an attractive way.
Make the signs attractive like Show Concord Grapes on them in an attractive way.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Bill Montague
Install Signs all over town so visitors can find their way to North Bridge, Walden Pond, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Also to the Depot area and West Concord. Visa versa.
Install Signs all over town so visitors can find their way to North Bridge, Walden Pond, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Also to the Depot area and West Concord. Visa versa.
Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Mark Hanson
Parking buses under solar panels helps reduce operating costs by reducing snow and early morning window frost removal work in winter and keeping the buses dry and out of the sun the rest of the year.
Parking buses under solar panels helps reduce operating costs by reducing snow and early morning window frost removal work in winter and keeping the buses dry and out of the sun the rest of the year.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Thank you, Bob. I do not know what instance you have in mind with regards to natural preservation conflicting with historic character issues, but one thing for sure: natural preservation is important for everyone's well-being, all ages, all abilities, rich or poor - so thank you for your post.
Thank you, Bob. I do not know what instance you have in mind with regards to natural preservation conflicting with historic character issues, but one thing for sure: natural preservation is important for everyone's well-being, all ages, all abilities, rich or poor - so thank you for your post.
Supported a comment by Jeffrey Kerr on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Jeffrey Kerr
Protect neighborhood integrity by limiting tear-downs, enforcing house-size to lot size limitations and requiring clear disclosure of buyers identity.
Protect neighborhood integrity by limiting tear-downs, enforcing house-size to lot size limitations and requiring clear disclosure of buyers identity.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Preserving Neighborhood Trees: I have been looking over the current drafts for vision for concord, opportunities, and the element of preserving trees and nature "within neighborhoods" is missing. The physical and mental health value of having trees within one's neighborhood should not be underestimated. Natural conservation should not be limited only to designated parcels of interest.
Preserving Neighborhood Trees: I have been looking over the current drafts for vision for concord, opportunities, and the element of preserving trees and nature "within neighborhoods" is missing. The physical and mental health value of having trees within one's neighborhood should not be underestimated. Natural conservation should not be limited only to designated parcels of interest.
Supported a comment by Bill Kemeza on
Envision Concord
5 years, 11 months ago
Bill Kemeza
Concord Center, seems to be losing its vitality as shops close.
A significant way to address this is to make the center itself an experience. Walking, lingering, having commodious places to sit, to eat, to talk. Imagine places where our restaurants could have tables outside. Our stores could have displays where folks could take their time.
Consider widening the sidewalks on the Milldam and Walden street by getting rid of street parking. With signage, direct cars to our parking lots (and negotiate more spaces from private sources) to offset the loss of on-street parking.
The current traffic lanes would remain.
Concord Center, seems to be losing its vitality as shops close.
A significant way to address this is to make the center itself an experience. Walking, lingering, having commodious places to sit, to eat, to talk. Imagine places where our restaurants could have tables outside. Our stores could have displays where folks could take their time.
Consider widening the sidewalks on the Milldam and Walden street by getting rid of street parking. With signage, direct cars to our parking lots (and negotiate more spaces from private sources) to offset the loss of on-street parking.
The current traffic lanes would remain.
Supported a comment by Christa Collins on
Envision Concord
5 years, 11 months ago
Christa Collins
Re: Josh's comment, also a ped-activated crosswalk on Rt 62 at West St. would be great. It's a dangerous crosswalk and we could use some traffic-calming in that approach to W. Concord.
Re: Josh's comment, also a ped-activated crosswalk on Rt 62 at West St. would be great. It's a dangerous crosswalk and we could use some traffic-calming in that approach to W. Concord.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 11 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Closed door meetings with private interests and with town management staff have inappropriately derailed this public process, which the CLRPC, a public body, not consultant, is supposed to "lead." Please also read my response to consultant under general comments: https://courbanize.com/projects/envisionconcord/comments?ordering=-created&prompt=8.%20Sustainability&tag=General
Closed door meetings with private interests and with town management staff have inappropriately derailed this public process, which the CLRPC, a public body, not consultant, is supposed to "lead." Please also read my response to consultant under general comments: https://courbanize.com/projects/envisionconcord/comments?ordering=-created&prompt=8.%20Sustainability&tag=General
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 11 months ago
Tanya Gailus
The consultant mentioned this idea of dismantling the term "town character" at the CLRPC's Sept. 22 meeting. However, she proposed to re-appropriate it to defining a different town character- to which I objected.
You can't first non-validate a term and then re-define and apply it for your own purposes. Her land use recommendations are along the lines of business and development interests, based on closed doors focus groups. Caution with survey: Question 22 on the survey has misleading phrasing, which equates land conservation with "town character" in option a, and groups acquisition of land with protection , and "housing needs" with tax-base developments in option b. People who wish to express a 'balanced' view of land use, perhaps for affordable housing support, will thus also be supporting less environmental protection and "tax base" related development. People who want conservation will thus be assumed to be doing so for "town character" (ie rather than the many concrete benefits of natural preservation.) Option c is there is enough open space land. You can't leave it blank, and there is no write in option.
I urge caution with the survey, which did not get the full final review by the Comprehensive Long Range Plan Committee before release - a process mistake on the part of the committee.
The consultant mentioned this idea of dismantling the term "town character" at the CLRPC's Sept. 22 meeting. However, she proposed to re-appropriate it to defining a different town character- to which I objected.
You can't first non-validate a term and then re-define and apply it for your own purposes. Her land use recommendations are along the lines of business and development interests, based on closed doors focus groups. Caution with survey: Question 22 on the survey has misleading phrasing, which equates land conservation with "town character" in option a, and groups acquisition of land with protection , and "housing needs" with tax-base developments in option b. People who wish to express a 'balanced' view of land use, perhaps for affordable housing support, will thus also be supporting less environmental protection and "tax base" related development. People who want conservation will thus be assumed to be doing so for "town character" (ie rather than the many concrete benefits of natural preservation.) Option c is there is enough open space land. You can't leave it blank, and there is no write in option.
I urge caution with the survey, which did not get the full final review by the Comprehensive Long Range Plan Committee before release - a process mistake on the part of the committee.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 11 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Joseph: The term "town character", so widely used in surveys , town meeting, etc, is a misnomer in my opinion. It is a term that can easily be dismissed as subjective and vague. I have encouraged that more specific terms be used instead: Does one mean trees in neighborhoods, small houses, sidewalks, bike paths, historical sites? These are all distinct factors. My personal opinion is that when people complain about 'developments', they are often referring to tree loss (but that's just my opinion.)
As for limiting purchases by 'developers', I don't think that would be legally possible. A buyer is a buyer. Measures like a tree bylaw, however, may help, a little, perhaps...:-)
Joseph: The term "town character", so widely used in surveys , town meeting, etc, is a misnomer in my opinion. It is a term that can easily be dismissed as subjective and vague. I have encouraged that more specific terms be used instead: Does one mean trees in neighborhoods, small houses, sidewalks, bike paths, historical sites? These are all distinct factors. My personal opinion is that when people complain about 'developments', they are often referring to tree loss (but that's just my opinion.)
As for limiting purchases by 'developers', I don't think that would be legally possible. A buyer is a buyer. Measures like a tree bylaw, however, may help, a little, perhaps...:-)
Supported a comment by Joseph Stein on
Envision Concord
5 years, 11 months ago
Joseph Stein
Place a annual cap on the number of properties purchased by developers. Developers are slowly eating away at town character with outsized McMansions - all in the name of profit.
Place a annual cap on the number of properties purchased by developers. Developers are slowly eating away at town character with outsized McMansions - all in the name of profit.
Supported a comment by Kristen Hagerty on
Envision Concord
6 years ago
Kristen Hagerty
Bike lane on Thoreau St on the way to Alcott and CCHS schools so kids (and adults) don't ride on the sidewalk in the opposite direction of traffic.
Bike lane on Thoreau St on the way to Alcott and CCHS schools so kids (and adults) don't ride on the sidewalk in the opposite direction of traffic.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
6 years, 1 month ago
Tanya Gailus
A suggestion about visibility of ideas: For first time visitors: please note that there is also a "newest" option above. Otherwise only the most supported postings get the most frequent visibility.
For CivicMoxie or coUrbanize: Consider leaving the text response posts at the bottom of the pile (ie 'how did you get here?' 'where do you shop' etc.) -- so that citizen initiated needs, desires, and suggestions get better and easier visibility, and therefore better access to discussion, support, or other feedback.
(note: I do happen to be one of the supporters of the above idea as well.)
A suggestion about visibility of ideas: For first time visitors: please note that there is also a "newest" option above. Otherwise only the most supported postings get the most frequent visibility.
For CivicMoxie or coUrbanize: Consider leaving the text response posts at the bottom of the pile (ie 'how did you get here?' 'where do you shop' etc.) -- so that citizen initiated needs, desires, and suggestions get better and easier visibility, and therefore better access to discussion, support, or other feedback.
(note: I do happen to be one of the supporters of the above idea as well.)
Followed Envision Concord
6 years, 1 month ago
Supported a comment by Susan Mlodozeniec on
Envision Concord
6 years, 1 month ago
Susan Mlodozeniec
I agree with your assessment that small local retailers are at risk in the future. I personally hope retailers/ restaurants continue to be part of the mix in Concord - I support them with my shopping and dining. it'd be interesting to compare how other historic downtowns are evolving their space. I still love the look of Beacon Hill and I wonder if something more can be done to unify the look of concord center, regardless of what's being sold or offered in the various spaces.
I agree with your assessment that small local retailers are at risk in the future. I personally hope retailers/ restaurants continue to be part of the mix in Concord - I support them with my shopping and dining. it'd be interesting to compare how other historic downtowns are evolving their space. I still love the look of Beacon Hill and I wonder if something more can be done to unify the look of concord center, regardless of what's being sold or offered in the various spaces.
Supported a comment by Laurel Gerdine on
Envision Concord
6 years, 1 month ago
Laurel Gerdine
Need to think about the future of retail in our two/three town centers. The retail environment no longer supports small local retailers very well and I am not sure it will in the future. A vibrant town center 20 years from now may look completely different, perhaps retail not as a hub, but with services and community gathering areas.
Need to think about the future of retail in our two/three town centers. The retail environment no longer supports small local retailers very well and I am not sure it will in the future. A vibrant town center 20 years from now may look completely different, perhaps retail not as a hub, but with services and community gathering areas.
Supported a comment by Ruthy Bennett on
Envision Concord
6 years, 1 month ago
Ruthy Bennett
Bike/pedestrian crossing at route 2, so people can easily travel to both sides of town, especially school aged kids riding their bikes.
Bike/pedestrian crossing at route 2, so people can easily travel to both sides of town, especially school aged kids riding their bikes.
Nextdoor.com has several separate "neighborhood groups" in the East Concord area that are interconnected (some with Bedford too) and have been used actively as a bulletin board for everything from garage sales to inquiries about the best plumbers.