Bill's profile - coUrbanize

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Lydia Lodynsky on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Lydia Lodynsky
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 Regine Ryder on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Regine Ryder
Farming is already a big part of Concord. And it should stay that way.

Supported a comment by Kelly Burrell Roberts on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Kelly Burrell Roberts
Almost everything, West Concord needs a grocery store again.

Supported a comment by Janet Beyer on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Janet Beyer
One third of the population of Concord is over 65. These citizens would like to stay in Concord, so let's put time and money into making this possible. $95,000,000 for a high school that students will be in for four years and I believe the budget for the Harvey Wheeler Center is something like $300,000. (I am open to correction about that figure). We need to foster and value the people who have been here for decades and plan to stay. Consider them cultural and historic resources.

Supported a comment by Erin Cusker on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Erin Cusker
Sidewalks on 2A with connection to Acton and future Bruce Freeman Railtrail

Supported a comment by Kevin Neijstrom on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Kevin Neijstrom
Bring a beach area back to Warner's Pond. Current water access is not terribly appealing or usable. Long ago there was a beach here and it was much more frequented.

Supported a comment by Kevin Neijstrom on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
Bill has requested free parking for a long time to help his and others' businesses, and has met with opposition, including from some town officials, that free parking has nothing to do with his concerns - that in fact many businesses prefer limited parking so that there is customer turnover. I have been neutral about this discussion, still am. I think there are pros and cons either way. But I am surprised to find out today in the Concord Journal (http://concord.wickedlocal.com/news/20171114/move-to-boost-business-two-days-of-free-parking-in-concord-center) that the Selectboard has approved free parking for two days after Thanksgiving, precisely "to help businesses" - which makes me wonder about the consistency of the town officials' arguments. Does it perhaps depend on who brings up the issue? If so, should it?

Supported a comment by Valeria Petracchi on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Valeria Petracchi
Our family lives on Harrington, I have 3 kids and would love to walk to Thoreau school and downtown West Concord, but this intersection and the lack of sidewalkson Harrington and anxious commuters that fly by make it an impossible task.

Supported a comment by Michelle Touw on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Michelle Touw
I do NOT in support a traffic circle but the West Concord Task Force had wonderful plans linking the pocket park to the path behind Nashoba Bakery and the (then just planned) BFRT. Their idea was to change the Y junction to a modified T junction shifting Kenny Dunn Square to the west a bit and thus allowing for a walkway to the pocket park.

Supported a comment by Peter Baty on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Peter Baty
Safe Access to Warner's Pond Pocket Park - The sidewalk on Laws Brook Rd. ends before the triangle intersection, so no connection to the park around the corner or to K. Dunn Square. Also, crosswalk across Commonwealth Ave. at the park needs to be repainted (or painted) as this is a busy roadway. Understood that improvements may be made during upgrades of K. Dunn Square / conversion to a traffic circle?

Supported a comment by Matthew Johnson on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Matthew Johnson
I just looked at the survey results, hoping to see the text responses that people submitted to the open-ended questions. There's only a summary of most used keywords. Is the raw data available anywhere? Sometimes the best insights are in those comments.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
Where can one find ALL the data from the envision survey? Your update from the October 21 public event presentation shows the answers to only 'some' of the questions. Please post the answers to ALL the questions.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
Also: the NRC, CSEC, and the Agricultural Committee are official town committees, and as such offered a requested report, along with other boards and committees, including the Planning Board, Housing Authority, and the CHDC. Nobody assumed the last three speak for development interests. Lastly, when replying to comments as "Town of Concord", I ask that the Planning Division or Consultant do not implicitly meld their unique functions with that of the committee's (CLRPC) by using a "we" (as in "we hope.."), with regards to specifics that are under the committee's jurisdiction. It is the CLRPC which is ultimately responsible for non discriminatory treatment of all parties, by making *all* services equally available to *all*. If some conservation interests were alerted to inherent biases going on, much of it was due to the time, effort, and footwork - and willingness to be vulnerable - of a handful of citizens. That in itself has been an unfair burden to bear - especially when for profit interests get cushy treatment from publicly funded consultant because "otherwise they will not talk."

Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Mark Hanson
Restore Adult Ed to it's former stature in the 1970's. At that time it was the best in the region. I recall learning to speak Swedish, for example. We could also take leadership position in new more affordable housing options for middle income residents.

Supported a comment by Edie Lipinski on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Edie Lipinski
A neighborhood bus service would be a wonderful asset to the town. I live on Annursnac Hill and would love to be able to get into the town center and to West Concord center without a car. In the summer I ride my bike, 2.5 miles, but it's not possible once the snow comes. Lexington has Lexpress, a fixed route neighborhood mini-bus service operated by the town with six different routes all ending up in the town center. Is this something we could consider for Concord? Other stops could include Walden Pond and Emerson Hospital.

Supported a comment by Kelly Burrell Roberts on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Kelly Burrell Roberts
I love these trails! Both the Concord Land Trust and the lovingly maintained and generously shared trails on the adjoining private land. The private property was for sale recently and I hope Concord will work with the new owners to keep the land open and not mansionized.

Supported a comment by Brad Hubbard-Nelson on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Brad Hubbard-Nelson
I agree, as I read the census numbers the population is essentially flat. The distribution is what has been changing.

Supported a comment by Matthew Johnson on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Andy Smith on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Andy Smith
Install electric vehicle charging stations. Designate some for local business employees parking for the day and others for short-term visitor parking to encourage turnover for local business shopping.

Supported a comment by Andy Smith on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
BTW, repeating myself: There is no "Envision Concord Committee." There may be an "Envision Concord" project. But the consultant is not part of the Committee, which is the CLRPC. Please stop using this misleading language, which gives people the impression that the consultant and the Committee carry equal weight in this process. They don't.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Wade Rubinstein on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Wade Rubinstein
I would like to see a public garden/path that acknowledges Concord's sister town relationship with Nanae, Hokkaido, Japan. The garden could integrate elements of traditional Japanese gardens. It could serve as a meditation space and reminder of the strong bonds between Concord and Nanae. The garden could become a visitors' destination, like Shelburne Falls Bridge of Flowers. The Concord Nanae Network is celebrating twenty years of exchanging school groups and community delegations. The exchanges create cultural and personal bonds. Nanae recently dedicated Concord Street. Concord Street runs adjacent to Nanae's town hall and cultural center.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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."

Supported a comment by mark gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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."

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
Changing zoning to allow for more density, especially in 0.5 acre lots, as CivicMoxie is recommending in its opportunity scenarios, is not a good idea. The opposition to mansions being built on small lots is because this results in tree loss and change of "town character.". Increasing density in 0.5 acre lots will result in even more tree loss. Moreover, in the survey, Question 15, the two options which were about increasing density received the lowest two rankings - despite the fact that one was obligated to rank every option, ie without being able to leave these blank. The public, as the survey shows, prefers to create affordable housing through existing structures and added in-law units, not zoning changes. People are urged to frequently check documents on the CLRPC's webpage at concordma.gov

Supported a comment by India Hoeschen-Stein on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Brianne K on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Brianne K
I also live on Elsinore Street (14 years as a renter, outbid on an offer I placed about three years ago on a home), and am seeing the change take place in this neighborhood as several houses over the past few years have sold to developers, who in turn build a "McMansion" that in no way complements Concord's history or historic vibe, while taking up a good deal of land, and driving up the cost of for all homes in the neighborhood significantly. The cost of a 1000 sq. foot home is now roughly 700,000, making it impossible for many (including myself) to own in this neighborhood, or Concord in general. Even rents are sky high. E.g., 1 bedroom 688 sq. foot apartment in W. Concord for $2,300 plus utilities! Concord is no longer affordable to the middle class (unless you earn so little income you qualify for affordable housing). On a happy note, the house next door to my building was torn down, as the owners are rebuilding with "green" in mind. :-)

Supported a comment by Judy Hill on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by India Hoeschen-Stein on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Jeffrey Kerr on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Judy Hill on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
Is the March 14th public event a "Public Hearing" of the CLRP Committee or a presentation by the Town's Consultant Civic Moxie of their recommendations so far? A clarification would be appreciated. Last night at the SelectBoard meeting, Town Manager Chris Whelan said the second meeting of CivicMoxie with Town Management Team (planapalooza) had taken place, and that the discussion was about how to incorporate sustainability into the long range plan, and that the consultant would present a draft on March 14th. Is that also going to be a Public Hearing of the Committee itself? Thank you.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Yes a public restroom is needed in West Concord. The train depot I believe has restrooms in the train station in the Depot Area.

Supported a comment by Wade Rubinstein on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Wade Rubinstein
Concord needs a public restroom in West Concord with easy access to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail. This would be much appreciated by visitors and businesses. A public restroom could also act as a kiosk to promote local businesses.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
In this case, there has been a mix of transparency and opacity, which is in some ways more complicated, because there is the "illusion" of transparency (which really is a form of additional opacity.) It is, I believe, even more important, that the public becomes engaged and insists on the committee's own work to receive the visibility and primacy it deserves. I respect the work Committee members have done. I just do not have complete trust in the larger project because of too many behind the scenes elements.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Spelling error : Heat Rises ( not Hear friezes)

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Yes smaller homes and even older homes can be better insulated especially over the ceilings on the top floors. This is where most lf the heat escapes. Hear friezes so the ceiling on your top floor is most likely 90 deg or higher. If the rafters above that ceiling are not insulate weitj say 12 inches or more of blow in insulation then this is where most of your heat is gong. You also loose through the windows. The side walls need to be insulated by blower in insulation. The windows can have heavy drapes that one can close at night when you do not need the light. Cheers Bill

Supported a comment by Brad Hubbard-Nelson on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Jeffrey Kerr on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Jeffrey Kerr
In fact, in Conantum, a family sold to what they assumed was another family. It turned out to by a proxy buy which was then flipped into a McMansion. It was heartbreaking to the family who had participated in the founding of the neighborhood. It also signaled the first intrusion of an outsized house into an historical mid-century neighborhood.
The Boynton Company, along with Hills Bros, has been unwilling to talk about community-influence development and has referred concerned residence to property law.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by India Hoeschen-Stein on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

India Hoeschen-Stein
John Boynton, a CRLP committee member presented a response to the committee referencing my comment - you can find that response here: http://concordma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12706. It concerns me that he did not provide that response here where everyone could see it. I only learned that I was being quoted in this document late the evening before the CRLP meeting when it was going to be discussed.

Supported a comment by Elissa Brown on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Elissa Brown
More restaurants/pubs. I know it doesn't always fit with existing parking requirements, but that seems to be the ways vibrant towns are going now that retail is fading away.

Supported a comment by Bob Andrews on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Bob Andrews
I think that one of the best ways for Concord to honor its history and culture is to follow in the steps of the transcendentalist writers and activists who were among its earliest community leaders. People like Thoreau and Emerson were students of the environment and nature; and they honored and respected it. They believed and preached that God was in nature. If they were alive today they would undoubtedly be advocates for applying the Town's four sustainability principles and in the APA sustainability standards which inspire this planning process to everything we do. Alongside of embracing technical sustainability measures such as solar energy, we need to put more emphasis on preserving nature. We need to put a halt to a relentless extinction of biological species that accompanies exploitation of nature. We need to return the soil beneath our feet to its natural state so that it will sequester carbon and grow good, nutritious food .We are doing some of this but sometimes preservation of nature calls for putting up something in a historical district that is not what is considered consistent with the historical monuments and houses. If we are to honor our past, we cannot just copy the past. We must act in the spirit of our forebears & do what they would do if they were alive today.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
We can do a lot better with regards to acknowledging the Native American history in the region, and do it honestly.

Supported a comment by Melissa McBride on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 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.

Supported a comment by Joe Stein on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Joe Stein
Am I the only one who finds this pro-development question "Where does farming fit in Concord's future" offensive? Concord has a rich tradition of agriculture and I believe the Town should do everything it can to ensure it remains so for the next several generations.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Limit the parking to one side of the street! Why? you would be cutting our parking spaces in half. We are already short of parking spaces now.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 8 months ago}

Create bronze figures to be placed in Monument Square of our most notable citizens who have earned their place there. Such as Thoreau, Emerson at least. Daniel Chester French etc. Bill Montague

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.

Supported a comment by Lydia Lodynsky on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Lydia Lodynsky
Absolutely. More signs for tourists are needed and some of the existing signs need replacement (peeling paint, splintering wood, etc)

Supported a comment by Wade Rubinstein on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Wade Rubinstein
Adopt complete street policies that create access to safe, comfortable and healthy multimodal transportation options including walking, bicycling and transit. Multimodal transportation should link Concord's neighborhoods, commercial districts, public transportation facilities, cultural districts, parks, bike paths, and recreational facilities.

Supported a comment by Alice Kaufman on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Alice Kaufman
Our economy thrives on vibrant downtown areas. We may need to think creatively about the business interests that provide so much to our community.

Supported a comment by Bill Kemeza on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 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.

Supported a comment by Gary Kleiman on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Gary Kleiman
Continue to increase access to the West Concord waterfront through trails, interpretive features, picnic spots or boat launches/fishing piers, but maintain natural aesthetic.

Supported a comment by Janet Beyer on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Janet Beyer
And I don't think we are envisioning for grandchildren but for all residents. We need to make the town accessible for people with mobility issues.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Tanya Gailus
The original message in this thread was about a shuttle around Concord. Safe bike paths are important, too, but it need not be either or, since different individuals have different needs,

Supported a comment by Martin Alejandro Padilla on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Martin Alejandro Padilla
A bus between Acton's business areas, Concord and West Concord would be a great way of getting rid of 1 of 2 cars in a family. Specially because you can bike in the summer, but not in the winter...

Supported a comment by Linda Nieman on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Linda Nieman
I would also support guarded bike paths

Supported a comment by Ruthy Bennett on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Ruthy Bennett
Some kind of shuttle all over Concord so people dont have to drive their car for a short trip or kids can have another option besides being driven.

Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Mark Hanson
Extending the Minuteman Rail Trail from the Concord/Bedford line to connect with the Bruce Freeman Rail trail near the reformatory is a great idea. Mr. Johnson is right, it would be a safe, quick alternative to the roads to get from Concord Center to West Concord Center. It would require a couple of bridges and I understand there may be some property ownership issues to address, but it's a very worthwhile idea.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months 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.)

Supported a comment by Peggy Briggs on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 9 months ago}

Peggy Briggs
This is one of my top priorities for years

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 10 months ago}

Concord has the best variety of Interesting Shops of any tpwn in Eastern Mass. We are also the best Tourist Town with the North Bridge, We have the Concord Authors that Lexington lacks. Walden Pond the only one in the World where people come here from all over the World to visit. We have to capitalize on our Assets. Get off our Assets and start to take advantage of then business will stop closing and start Booming Like Hudson is now! Cheers Bill Montague

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 10 months ago}

There will be a need for them once we get the Tourist Busses stopping in Concord Center. The tourist spend about $35. ea when they visit a destination. This information came from the Tourist Bus people themselves. This income will go a long way in helping support local shops that have been closing for several years in a row. Due to lack of foot traffic. But it seems it is only the Retailers know this. Many people believe it's the Rents. It is the rent when you do not have enough income to be able to pay your Rent -- All retailers depend on walk-in-traffic. What ever cuts down on foot traffic - retailers suffer. Look at Maynard they have no foot traffic. Aubuchon Hardware closed after 70 years in Maynard. They moved to to Stow where they have no Parking metes, they recovered. It' a no-brainer. Look at towns that Free Parking - Business are fine. You look at towns that have Parking Meters you have no Shoppers. Very Simple! Bill Montague

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 10 months ago}

Yes. a fleet of small busses to circulate the town would be a great asset to town and also a great service to those who cannot drive wish not to. Those who could go shopping and not need to drive. One could expand on these busses given some thought by some of our bright citizens. Bill Montague

Supported a comment by Kelly Burrell Roberts on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 10 months ago}

Kelly Burrell Roberts
This new Concord Land Trust property is lovely. It could be better if connected to other trails for a longer woodsy river walk.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 10 months ago}

Well supporting trees is for the birds, one might say! But them the trees are a good place to start in support of our birds. The trees are their low cost home are they not! Bill

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 11 months ago}

I would like to print my Concord Guidebook in Japanese. And make it available to then, Perhaps they could translate their guidebook into english. Then that would give us both a way to understand each other better. Cheers! Bill Montague

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 11 months ago}

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

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 11 months ago}

I believe the town of Concord should take into account the value that our local retailer provide. The retailers are the Backbone of this town. Without them Concord would be a ghost town. They add so much to this wonderful town. The retailers have been having a great deal of difficulty in the past 3 or 4 years with major shops closings. So far the town government has not consulted the retailers themselves as to what they can to do help them stay in business. I would like to see the town take an active interest in our small independent business to see what they can do to help. We are all connected to each other. When the town, the merchants and the property owners join together and help one another then and only then will we become a strong business community once more, like it was 10 years ago, if you remember back that far? Cheer: Bill Montague a 41 year Concord Retailer.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{5 years, 11 months ago}

Thank you Lydia L. for supporting five of my suggestions to improve Concord in any way we can. Cheers Bill

Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Mark Hanson
There is no pedestrian-safe light cycle at this crossing. Pedestrians cross at the same time left turns are allowed for north bound traffic on Sudbury road that wants to turn left to Route 2 westbound. This could be solved by keeping northbound Sudbury road traffic red while the pedestrian cycle is on.

Supported a comment by Andy Smith on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Andy Smith
Install electric vehicle charging stations at the Keyes Road Parking lot. Designate some for daily employees parking for the day and others for short-term visitor parking to encourage turnover for local business shopping.

Supported a comment by Regine Ryder on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Regine Ryder
A sidewalk from Heaths Bridge Road to #117 is missing. It makes walking and biking quite dangerous.

Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Mark Hanson
Electric trains are a great idea as it would facilitate providing better, more reliable service. Electrifying the line is an expense, but the reduction in operating costs over time and the lower cost of vehicles would more than make up the difference.

Supported a comment by Diane Proctor on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Diane Proctor
A superb idea, Sanford. As a long term project, many changes in our transportation systems can be effectively implemented to reduce harmful emissions.

Supported a comment by Sanford Feman on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Sanford Feman
Electrify the commuter rail and eliminate diesel locomotives.

Supported a comment by Andy Smith on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Make the signs attractive like Show Concord Grapes on them in an attractive way.

Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Mark Hanson
Land uses that are compatible with environmental improvement such as composting or providing school bus parking closer to CCHS and thereby reducing diesel fuel use by simplifying / reducing total bus miles traveled as presented in 2016 during the discussion of Article 16 are compatible with the spirit of Thoreau's philosophy. Parking buses there under solar panels would be a good step toward meeting the goals of reducing CO2 emissions.

Supported a comment by John Boynton on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

John Boynton
Look at creative ways to reuse the remediated landfill at CCHS for recreation. A variety of potential uses have been suggested already. Let's study the options and be in a position to move forward when the remediation is complete.

Supported a comment by Jon Stephenson on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Jon Stephenson
I would love this as I trail run all the time. Currently you can connect the Old Rifle Range, to the Rail Trail, to White Pond and back up onto the land behind Verrill Farm. It would be nice to be able to connect the Rifle Range with the conservation land on the other side as well...

Supported a comment by Andy Smith on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Andy Smith
Work with Musketaquid Sportmens Club to help provide continuous trail access around Kennedy's Pond & to Old Rifle Range from Thoreau Hills neighborhood.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Tanya Gailus
and we need at least one more shelter - not just for the elderly, but for unexpected emergencies in this era of severe climate activity and political unrest

Supported a comment by Brian Foulds on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Brian Foulds
The Harvey Wheeler Center is a shelter for the elderly when a heat emergency or storm hits Concord. Utility scale batteries should be installed there to ensure the building has power when a during one of these unfortunate events. These batteries can also be used to lower the cost of electricity when operated by Concord Light.

Supported a comment by Brian Foulds on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Brian Foulds
Concord Light should work with Emerson Hospital to install utility scale energy storage. This system can be used to lower CL rates and ensure the hospital continues to operate during a natural disaster. State incentives are available.
https://www.mass.gov/energy-storage-initiative

Supported a comment by Nick Pappas on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Nick Pappas
in my experience, forcing people to do something often creates resentment.

Supported a comment by Leslie Pelton on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Leslie Pelton
There are stunning numbers of kids who drive to CCHS. The car parking should be limited and expensive. We need multitudes of bike racks, scooter racks. We could collaborate with HubWay of other organizations to make even electric bikes available to our kids. And then give them huge incentives for using them. And, of course, we need safe biking lanes throughout Concord!

Supported a comment by Andy Smith on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Andy Smith
Concord does own both pieces of land! The north side is Cousins Park, and the other side is Harrington Park. I think it makes sense to connect the two. I think Harrington Park would get a lot more use and appreciation with a connector bridge providing new access.

Supported a comment by Martin Alejandro Padilla on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Martin Alejandro Padilla
I beg that the town builds a walkway or path to keep pedestrians safe. Truthfully, there is no safe way to get from Harrington Ave neighborhood to downtown West Concord. Think about a mother pushing a stroller, a kid wanting to get an ice cream, joggers/runners/walkers or just commuters who would love to take the train and not own a 2nd car... or families that could walk downtown for a bite or soccer matches at cousins park... if the path is too expensive, just build a path and a bridge over the river! I hope we don't need to wait for an accident to be understood.

Supported a comment by Jon Stephenson on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Jon Stephenson
and a sidewalk along Harrington Ave would be nice - especially if there were a bridge connecting the two areas - then kids could bike safely along that section of road to the bridge...

Supported a comment by Jon Stephenson on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Jon Stephenson
I have two young kids on that side of West Concord who will be eventually going to Thoreau... I want them to be active and consider biking to school but would be extremely nervous about them biking on the main roads. Having a bridge connecting those areas would prevent them from having to bike on busy roads to school... there are a ton of kids in my neighborhood

Supported a comment by Andy Smith on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Andy Smith
I think it makes a lot of sense. Our two main options for crossing the river are Main St. to the west and Pine St. to the east. In the middle is a vibrant hub of Thoreau Elementary and two strong neighborhoods that would be strengthened even more by a physical pedestrian connection. It could also be seen as a way to connect the community gardens with Marshall Farm. I think we should really push this idea to our community leaders!

Supported a comment by Valeria Petracchi on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Valeria Petracchi
This would certainly benefit the neighborhood surrounding Marshall Farms. Thoreau and Cousins Park are right behind Marshall Farms, the neighborhoods surrounding the farm are full of and many kids that could walk to school and to soccer on Saturdays, even walk downtown if there was a safe way to do so. It would definitely increase the walkability and provide an alternative to the dangerous Harrington Ave.

Supported a comment by Andy Smith on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Andy Smith
Provide a pedestrian bridge to connect Cousins Park with Harrington Park. This would have a huge impact in connecting the two neighborhoods.

Supported a comment by Jeffrey Kerr on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Jeffrey Kerr
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 Mark Hanson on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Mark Hanson
I agree that we could connect the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail to the Minuteman Trail. Safe bikeways for commuters are a valuable resource. Before I retired I commuted from Concord to Hanscom AFB by bike and a rail trail would have been safer and faster.

Supported a comment by Rick Hedeman on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Rick Hedeman
Love the fact that the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail is happening! Would LOVE it if there was some way to connect it with the trail from Concord center to Bedford...

Supported a comment by Leslie Pelton on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Leslie Pelton
We need safe biking lanes for people of all ages throughout Concord

Supported a comment by Michelle Touw on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Michelle Touw
Absolutely, w c task force also recommended this bridge as well as widening with cantilevered walk tge rt 62 bridge for pedestrians. Winter plowing makes it alist impassable.

Supported a comment by Tyler Spring on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Tyler Spring
Add a pedestrian bridge over the Assabet River connecting the Baker Ave business parks to West Concord Village. Our 2010 Master Plan recommended such a bridge. After reading GPI's feasibility study provided...

Supported a comment by Christa Collins on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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.

Supported a comment by Susan Mlodozeniec on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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.

Supported a comment by Laurel Gerdine on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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.

Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Mark Hanson
Great idea. Traffic visibility is limited there was one pedestrian fatality in this area 20 years ago or so. A smart crossing would make it safer.

Supported a comment by Josh Burgel on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Josh Burgel
Over 200 households could use a ped-activated crosswalk in order to access Willard, Sanborn, Peabody, and the Bruce Freeman RT.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Tanya Gailus
to support team: Thank you for re-instating my comment above, which you indicated to me was reviewed because of "sentiment value." As I wrote in response, sentiment is an important part of public dialogue, as long as there is no offensive language. Thank you again.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Tanya Gailus
It seems my comment here about survey problem Q 22 has been removed. Check: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/concord/conversations/messages/54304 I also wrote about the consultant agreeing with me on dismantling the term "town character" but then re-appropriating it to eventually "redefine" it. A contradiction. Either it is an elusive term, or not.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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

Supported a comment by Joseph Stein on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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.

Supported a comment by Lori Pazaris on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Lori Pazaris
We need to support businesses that provide for the health and well being of Concord residents and promote sustainability. Is the tax base the reason why senior town management seems to sometime favor business over residents? Mail ordering is impacting retail business everywhere. Yes creativity, ensuring that the town lives within its means, and willingness of town government to work with public and not just private interests is critical. Has town management considered sending a survey to local businesses and residents to assess, for example, which businesses are thriving, which businesses residents support the most, and to determine which business will thrive long-term, etc? Civic Moxie asks similar questions here, but not all residents are participating.

Supported a comment by Valeria Petracchi on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Valeria Petracchi
There are many neighborhoods without bike path or sidewalks so there is no way to bike during the winter..

Supported a comment by Josh Burgel on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Josh Burgel
While the winter can be cold, cleared bike paths are useable 95% of the year.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

How About using the new large space at the High School to park school busses. They would be close by and save millage. Start and end up at the same location. Bill Montague

Supported a comment by Michelle Touw on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Michelle Touw
All large businesses should have to provide set % of renewable too, like solar, and there should be higher ratrs for high volune water usage by homes and businesses to reduce wasteful use of precious water supplies.

Supported a comment by Brian Foulds on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Brian Foulds
Concord Light should work with commercial customers on the installation of energy storage systems to manage building demand and Concord Lights peak expenses. Additional this will allow companies like Crosby's market to remain open during blackouts and keep food from spoiling.

Supported a comment by Nate Kemp on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Nate Kemp
Need continuity of Reformatory Branch trail into Concord Center, West Concord, and points west... the Minuteman Path to Bedford and continuation on the Reformatory Branch toward Concord is nice.. but connect it to the Freeman Trail and you've got progress.

Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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.

Supported a comment by Kelly Burrell Roberts on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Kelly Burrell Roberts
And cars on Upland need to be alerted that cars coming up Pine do not stop. I have had a car from Upland pull across Pine as I was turning at the top of the hill. He expected me to stop.

Supported a comment by Michelle Touw on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Michelle Touw
Cars coming up Pine should continue to not have stop sign as the hill is so steep. Upland already has stop signs, it is people coming up Pine who get confused and sometimes stop that create a hazard. Is there such a thing as a Do NOT Stop sign?

Supported a comment by Peter Baty on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Peter Baty
Intersection of Upland and Pine - Confusing intersection because Pine does not have a stop sign. Improved signage to alert drivers of this, plus crosswalk/stop line repainting would greatly enhance safety.

Supported a comment by Peter Baty on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Peter Baty
Utility Box in Middle of Main Street Sidewalk, In Front of TD Bank - Concerns (particularly from Concord Greene residents) about the placement of a utility pole/utility box combination that causes the sidewalk to become very narrow, making access with a wheelchair or walker difficult. In addition, during the winter, the sidewalk plow cannot access this area; therefore ice and snow accumulation drive pedestrians into the road, creating a serious safety hazard.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Ask the Town government ways to support the Retailers who are having a difficult time!

Supported a comment by Bob Andrews on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Bob Andrews
Yes, we will be seeing the death of local retail businesses unless we recognize collectively the role these businesses can play when they are local owned and managed and really work to meet the needs of local people. Ideally, they can bring the community together since people who care about the kinds of products they carry will meet each other in the aisles and at community events sponsored by the businesses.. It feels really good to know and be known by the people behind the counter. Debra's Natural Gourmet and the 5 & !0 are excellent examples. The Town needs to find new ways to encourage and support these kinds of businesses and to limit the spread of large chains that are copies of others around the country. Putting limits on the growth business will reduce traffic and parking issues that create stress and alter the whole flavor of a business district. I agree with Lori that there needs to be attention paid to what products people really prefer to buy in person and what stores sell goods that are in themselves sustainable.

Supported a comment by Lori Pazaris on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Lori Pazaris
Retail businesses across the country are struggling. We need to identify the products and services that Concord residents (and tourists) most need and would prefer to buy in person and not on-line. Households are paying more attention to sustainable products.

Supported a comment by Michelle Touw on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Michelle Touw
ABSOLUTELY agree with all of the above. Sick of town supporting groups to bypass open meeting laws.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Tanya Gailus
Hello Susan. However, the tensions you offer to solve are not to that extent. There aren't many "silos" in this town. The elders and the young may have slightly different "first" priorities per town's earlier survey, but they usually support each others' needs and an overall majority supports treesy neighborhoods, climate related sustainability, and schools. There may be disagreements at town meeting when a development proposal has evaded correct process, but discussions are rigorous and many-sided. Silos may be some development interests who, you mentioned at 9/8 CLRPC meeting, do not want to speak in public. It is wrong for CivicMoxie to hold closed door meetings with selected interest groups, - two with business partnerships who also invite CivicMoxie consultant to private function. Ideas you presented on September 22 are based on feedback from these for profit groups. (Where else was data from?) Also, you will not hold any conservation gatherings; after May 31 event, on June 9, you stated that views which supported conservation would be given lesser consideration. Now you suggest less environmental protection. Environmental protection benefits all ages. Alleged young/old tensions often are excuse for development interests. Town Management Team preferences from "planapalooza" meeting should not influence plan. Their function is implementation. "[T]he whole purpose of this comprehensive long range planning process" is for Concord's people to define, led by CLRPC, a public entity. CivicMoxie is hired with public money, to assist, not to "lead." Survey Q22 misleads. Survey's closed doors preparation and pre-full-review release violated OML.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Tanya Gailus
Ms. Silberberg mentioned during her presentation to the Comprehensive Long Range Plan Committee today (Sept.22) that they observed a tension between needs of the elderly and needs of youth. Anyone who has been in a "sandwich generation" situation knows that caring for the needs of the aging and the needs of the young can be taxing on time, energy, and resources. A helpful perspective is that generations need and benefit each other, for practical help, for guidance, and for emotional well-being to name a few ways. Approaching our priorities with this perspective may help come up with decisions that ultimately benefit everyone.

Supported a comment by Dorrie Kehoe on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Dorrie Kehoe
I think that this is a critical area for consideration. Businesses and economic development are critical to the health of the community. The Town needs to pay better attention to this. The recent installation of MORE parking meters is an example of the lack of sensitivity to retail businesses. Where are we headed??

Supported a comment by Bob Andrews on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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.

Supported a comment by Dorrie Kehoe on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Dorrie Kehoe
I think that there need to be better and more "downsizing" opportunities for long time Concord residents who would like to continue to live in Town even after they are not able to maintain their own houses. And when I write "downsizing" I am not talking about million dollar plus housing, but moderate, e.g. condominiums, stand along condominiums, small houses in the $500,000-$600,000 range. The Town could "incentivize" developers to engage in this kind of development by making taxes and zoning more friendly.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Yes an important challenge for developers it to build small affordable state of the art houses. On a slab, two car garage right off the kitchen for grocery unloading etc. Basements with steps are far too dangerous and unnecessary

Supported a comment by Dorrie Kehoe on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Dorrie Kehoe
My earlier comment addresses this: smaller houses/condominiums to make it possible for older residents who want to stay in Town. I favor affordable housing, but think that it should be geared especially toward the above group or toward public employees of the Town and not toward bringing in people from out of Town. We need to take care of those who help to make Concord a good place to live.

Supported a comment by Dorrie Kehoe on Envision Concord ^{6 years 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.

Supported a comment by Dorrie Kehoe on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Dorrie Kehoe
The Library--in both locations!! I like it that one can park for free at Fowler Library and hope that remains.... I like the public spaces such as Junction Park which offer a place for residents to socialize.

Supported a comment by Dorrie Kehoe on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Dorrie Kehoe
Wonderful that the Town is encouraging farming and glad that there seems to be a renaissance.

Supported a comment by Dorrie Kehoe on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Dorrie Kehoe
I have two suggestions---both of which deal with West Concord Center: 1. Encourage a small grocery store such as Concord Provisions on Thoreau Street for this area. This is really needed---and Concord can play an active role in helping an entrepreneur to make this happen. 2. Find SOME way to alleviate the daily commuter traffic tie ups in West Concord Center. This may involve some creative thinking and it is even possible that there is NO solution. But an effort must be made.

Supported a comment by Elissa Brown on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Elissa Brown
Co-housing within walking distance of town centers.

Supported a comment by Elissa Brown on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Elissa Brown
Self guided walking tours and apps connecting historic areas and open space, like AcrossLexington.

Supported a comment by Alice Kaufman on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Alice Kaufman
Many of our roads and streets are common bike routes - Lowell, Monument, Bedford, Lexington, Sudbury, Commonwealth, & Lawsbrook. I understand that the width of many of our roads will not allow installation of bike lanes. Painted Sharrows would help remind drivers that these roads are shared & to drive with caution.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Hudson 5 years ago removed all parking meters and pay to park. Hudson is now a booming business town. In 2008 they had 23 vacant shops. We do have examples of the damage that parking meters, They replace them with Parking limits 2 hours
How much more proof do you need? Experience is the best teacher.

Supported a comment by Regine Ryder on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Regine Ryder
Every "High Rise", meaning more than 4 stories, should be built to accommodate solar.

Supported a comment by Kevin Neijstrom on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Kevin Neijstrom
West Concord center is too crowded with cars. Two traffic lanes and parking on both sides takes up too much space, and is dangerous for bicyclists, and is unattractive. Eliminating street parking here would give us room for bike lanes and wider sidewalks, with possibilities for more open space, outdoor dining and shopping, and greenery. Keep the parking behind the shops.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Tanya Gailus
The committee's and the consultant's continued resistance and refusal to hold focus group meetings with conservation interests is a shameful hindrance of equal access to all parties. The committee has extended private focus group meetings to select businesses and developers because "they will not otherwise speak in public" and "the committee wants to know what they think." How does the committee know that some conservation interests do not have their own thoughts they might not share in public - which may be of use in the process? Why are they essentially "forced" to either speak in public or be quiet? Why are they essentially "forced" to spend extraordinary amount of time and energy attending meetings and writing letters, while for profit interests receive red carpet treatment? This is outright discrimination in public process. The public - not some "business partnership"- is paying for the consultant. Are the committee and the consultant afraid of what might be said in a closed focus group of people interested in natural preservation and protection? Ideally, there should be no closed focus groups in this process - but if they will be held anyway, they should be made available to everyone.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Find interesting ways to attract all those folks many older generation to get them to go out more and break the Television Habit. Such as a big band type of setting where we can listen to big band music and dance and have some food and drinks at the same time. Music that we were brought up on like Glen Miller, Benny Goodman etc. Older folks like us need the stimulation and the exercise and companionship at the same time. But local by that I mean with in 5 miles or so of Concord. Like the Old Mill in West Concord for instance. There are plenty of musicians around us who would love to play for dancing etc. Bill

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years ago}

Yes you are correct. Decisions to spend thousand of $ on a parking plan then not to consul the very business that will be effected by their decision is discrimination plain and simple. Bill

Supported a comment by Joe Stein on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Joe Stein
Trees provide a number of important ecological and environmental services, as well as improve property values and "town character". But trees are experiencing increasing stress from road salt, infestations (pine trees are dying all over town), and climate (ie,tar spot due to prolonged wet conditions). I propose the Town consider creating a formal Tree Committee modeled after other successful committees within MA. The committee may be charged with promoting shade tree plantings, soliciting ideas for tree replacement, managing tree dedications, etc. Towns such as Lexington, MA have an active Tree Committee and dedicated town website. Concord should consider the same (I would happily serve as volunteer).

Supported a comment by Peter DeRosa on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Peter DeRosa
Look for ways to connect high density residential areas to the town centers, job clusters, and regional transportation hubs. Plan all future dense housing with this in mind.

Supported a comment by Lori Pazaris on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Lori Pazaris
Would it make sense for Concord to consider purchasing already built smaller homes fand renting to town workers at affordable prices.? This could limit the tear down trend and minimize expanding our built environment.

Supported a comment by Lori Pazaris on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month 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.

Supported a comment by Brad Hubbard-Nelson on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Brad Hubbard-Nelson
In the case that the middle schools are rebuilt at Sanborn, the Peabody site could be repurposed into a co-housing development. Affordable community housing with shared spaces would be attractive to young families, close to both Willard and CMS. For a nearby example, look at NewView housing in Acton, a really nice living situation.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Thoreau St Parking Meters. How would you like to have to pay to park in front of your own property. In addition all your visitors would have to pay also? Bill

Supported a comment by Debra S. on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Debra S.
More parks with benches. A finished bicycle path! More community vegetable gardens (maybe some right in town centers). Also, and this seems contrary to the suggestions above here, more parking for retail shopping (particularly in West Concord).

Supported a comment by Debra S. on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Debra S.
I like events more than specific facilities. I being with others when I celebrate the 4th or listen to music....

Supported a comment by Debra S. on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Debra S.
I think Concord should start with human "sustainability." How about having a town wide lunch walk, a morning yoga stretch in each town center, thinking about the drinks and refreshments we serve at functions? How about getting into the habit of always bringing our own eating and drinking implements instead of expecting a disposable plate?

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Tanya Gailus
Thank you. However, I think one may be needed near Concord Center or East Concord as well. What I have in mind is not 'hot weather' type of emergencies, but unexpected and more urgent emergencies - hurricanes, tornadoes, and even military emergencies.. In any case, we may need one for other parts of town as well.

Supported a comment by Caty Fledderjohn on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Caty Fledderjohn
WEST CONCORD. There are lots of young families, retail space, & convenient access to public transportation. Help to make it as visually appealing as main Concord and somehow try to incorporate the two parts of town into one. Free train passes between the two for day trippers? Add a splash park for children, find room for more outdoor seating/picnic area, better actress to the river...etc

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Like Having to pay to park.

Supported a comment by Martin Alejandro Padilla on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Martin Alejandro Padilla
I beg that the town builds a walkway or path to keep pedestrians safe. Truthfully, there is no safe way to get from Harrington Ave neighborhood to downtown West Concord. Think about a mother pushing a stroller, a kid wanting to get an ice cream, joggers/runners/walkers or just commuters who would love to take the train and not own a 2nd car... or families that could walk downtown for a bite or soccer matches at cousins park... if the path is too expensive, just build a path and a bridge over the river! I hope we don't need to wait for an accident to be understood.

Supported a comment by Stephanie Chrobak on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Stephanie Chrobak
Publicize more in MA towns; hold more events that bring people to town. Races, fairs, farmer markets, ... create a buzz

Supported a comment by Stephanie Chrobak on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Stephanie Chrobak
Farming, local goods, art...

Supported a comment by Debra S. on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Debra S.
I'd love to see potlucks made legal so the town could have periodic potlucks to bring community together. Imagine what fun that would be! And, since we talk about citizens biking, let's put bike racks around all town centers. More dialogue between business and town residents so each can more appreciate and support the other.

Supported a comment by Debra S. on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Debra S.
As a retailer, I think vibrant town centers are important. Independent retailers should be cherished, because we are a dying breed that makes one want to walk main streets. We're the ones who support fundraising and school events, aren't we? As for economic development, anything that will protect our environment, our diversity, our humanity would be perfect for a town like Concord. Also anything that steps into a Star-Trek tech world!

Supported a comment by OARS Sudbury-Assabet-Concord Rivers on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

OARS Sudbury-Assabet-Concord Rivers
Add street trees in West Concord, Commonwealth Ave. in particular. There is no shade, and the stormwater runoff is hot in the summer. Make planted islands sunken instead of raised to collect and infiltrate stormwater, add sunken islands to parking lots. Use stormwater tree planting boxes where possible.

Supported a comment by PAUL LOVECCHIO on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

PAUL LOVECCHIO
There needs to be a study of the long term financial needs of many Concord citizens associated with meeting the town's goals of affordable housing and diversity. Several public and private groups and committees in town are attempting to meet these needs. However, Concord's 2015 Housing production Plan projects many more citizens needing financial aid if we are to meet our affordable housing and diversity goals. We should project the future financial needs of Concord citizens as a result of these goals and plan how to meet them through perhaps coordination of public and private groups.

Supported a comment by Malcolm Bryant on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Malcolm Bryant
I agree. While consultants need to earn their salary (I know, I was one for many years), they are only necessary when the competence does not exist within the existing community. Concord clearly has the capability to do this work using its own citizens, many of whom are experts in their own right.

If the concern is having an “independent” lens, then a neutral facilitator to ensure balanced representation and time would make sense, but not to run the show.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month 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.

Supported a comment by Bob Andrews on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Bob Andrews
I think that bike trails and sidewalks that can take us from one business area to another and to all of our wonderful conservation lands and wildlife preserves are much be desired. We want these areas to be accessible; but we also want to reduce automobile traffic.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Well I have been a Concord Retailer for 40 years. I am quoting what people tell me. When they get $20.. parking ticket they tell me they will never come back to this town again. Have you seen how many shops have closed? It's parking Meters. Bill

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Yes but first we must offer free 3 hour parking to encourage shoppers. Today paid parking drives would be customers away. Hence Shops Closed. Bill

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Hi Mark, Yes I was thinking of a separate Commuter Parking lot that would be fenced in and guarded. Perhaps pay $1.00 for all day for computers to they would not be taking up valuable Town parking spaces. They already have a huge lot in Acton for this purpose. Just copy that an put it half way between Acton, and West Concord. It could be owned by the MBTA etc.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

In the past 40 years since I have been a retailer the town has not added to it's parking lots. Yet there are Many more cars on the streets today but we have not planned for the increase in traffic to accommodate them. Bill

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

We need to find way to support our Concord Retailers that have been suffering for the past 5 years or more. There is not enough free parking spaces. Bill Montague

Followed Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

How about Sunday afternoon where almost any one could attend.Bill

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Start our own Bank. Like we did in 1899 with the Co-op-Bank.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Because Farming I growing Local Food that is better for you than food that is from other states and other nations. With out farmers we would not last long.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

By encouraging towns folks to buy Local. To help the stressed retailers can stay in business.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

51 Walden, Emerson Umbrella, the Library, Emerson Playground. They are close by you don't have to drive for miles. The Concord Band. Great Band leader with professional music ties.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Show old classic movies at 51 Walden and or the Scout House that are empty a lot of the time.. Also a Dance hall with light food and live music like the old days. Where older folks could go out and dance like the Balloons of years ago. They get exercise and meet people etc.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Yes a small bus that makes the rounds all day for those who do not want to drive or even have a car. West Concord, - Depot Area - Concord Center p Crosby's parking lot.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

If the Prison closes, that is rumored, Make that very large ares into affordable condos or apparent buildings. Where people can walk to West Concord center where there is almost anything one would need. Even the Post office is near by.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

More affordable smaller houses so newly weds and retired folks can live here in Concord.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Help Make Concord a user-friendly town. By having more benches in Concord Center, The Depot area, and West Concord, for people to sit and rest awhile or have a bite to eat.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Increase Free Parking Spaces to help merchants survive.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

The main reason that Concord Shops have closed is because the loss of people coming to Concord to eat and shop. They have been driven away by our Parking Meters. Especially; the new ones. Customers tell me "If I cannot find a free parking space in the Keyes lot or the Walden St. Lot I leave!" Towns all rover the nation have removed parking meters. Dearborn Michigan had a 38% vacancy rate. They remove the meters and in one year they cut their vacancy rate in HALF!
Hudson Ma. had 23 vacant shops in 2008 they removed their parking meters 5 years ago they tell me. Now they only have 1 vacant spot. The town of Hudson is booming!
So what is Concord doing? Our town government has installed more meters raised the fees and increase the tickets from $15. to $20. YOU wonder way shops have closed in Concord Center for the past 2 years. Our government never considered the effect these meter would have on Retailers! I went to a Selectmen meeting last year - I asked what effect will these added new meters have on the Retailers? The answer was "That's not why we are doing it!" What kind of an answer to give to a Concord Retailer for 40 years? Bill Montague

Supported a comment by Michelle Touw on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Michelle Touw
It is hard to ocercome people taking the Easy way of ordering online vs going shopping. In addition to creating more community events/traditions as W C businesses have, locals need to add better websites, online ordering and delivery via local p.o. to compete, sad but true.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Hello Abby White, You propose a good argument to change our Zoning in particular the Walden St. bank building. However my recommendation seeing that you point out Large Banks are no longer needed. I suggest that we Concord people start our own Bank! We did it in 1899 called the Concord Co-op. We pay depositors 4% lone money out at 8% use the 4% to run the bank. There is plenty of money abailable here in Concord to get it started. If we do that you would see a run on this new bank, like you have never seen before. Everyone wants interest on the money they put into a bank. Today people pay 18% interest on their credit cards. So 8% would be a bargain.
Cheers! Bill Montague

Supported a comment by Stephanie Chrobak on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Stephanie Chrobak
More activities with children. Target health and social solutions we are struggling with.

Supported a comment by Stephanie Chrobak on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Stephanie Chrobak
The town center needs to be revitalized.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Yes and more benches all over town so people can sit and rest a while.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Yes more free parking all over town.

Supported a comment by Debra S. on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Debra S.
It would be a dream to have everything accessible by foot from each neighborhood -- libraries, food markets -- not realistic though.

Supported a comment by Debra S. on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Debra S.
Without farms and people who grow our food, we'd be a poor place to live. Isn't it wonderful that we have young farmers coming along, and so many organic farms? Yeah, us! What would it take to help all our farms adopt organic practices?

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

A mirror at the Walden St lot onto Hubbard St. The wood fence blocks your view There was a mirrior but the DPW. took it down when it became damaged, We need a new one so a pedestrian will not get hit by the hundreds of cars that exit there just to mail a letter.

Supported a comment by Linda Nieman on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Linda Nieman
Would be great to have a mirror here so drivers can see southbound traffic around bend. Folks tend to speed on Old Bedford rd and it is difficult to see them when pulling out of Merriam Rd.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Yes I agree! Parking meters serve no useful purpose - except to drive would be visitors away to all the towns around us that have no meters.

Supported a comment by Todd Kokoszka on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Todd Kokoszka
We need a sidewalk all the way down Cambridge Turnpike. We need crosswalks for them to use. There are children that live here and would like to walk to their friends' houses.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Yes we need more free Parking in all three shopping areas of Concord Parking meters drive people away, so shop close because of lack of customers given away by intimidating parking meters, now they even put them in front of private homes on Thoreau and Main Streets.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Tanya Gailus
more outdoor cafes would be nice

Supported a comment by Elissa Brown on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Elissa Brown
The libraries! They are beautiful, peaceful, warm in winter and cool in summer, and full of interesting reading and listening material and programs.

Supported a comment by Bob Andrews on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Bob Andrews
I think that Concord needs to view sustainability not just as having more solar panels and heat pumps but as a critical facet of almost everything we decide as a town. What we do about managing public water and waterways, supporting local and organic agriculture, introducing carbon sequestration practices into out use and care of land, what kind of housing we have. Just about anything we plan as a town either adds a lot of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere or does not. Our actions remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere or do not. Proper use of sustainability principles means that every decision is analyzed to pinpoint as closely as possible how it impacts climate change, which is our most critical threat as a community and a planet.

Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month 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.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

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

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

We need a beltway around concord to eliminate the traffic jams in the a.m. and p.m. all roads coverage into the center of town.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

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

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Provide a free Concord Guide book for visitors. With adds in the back by local shops to pay for the publication.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Strive to make Concord friendly to outsiders, such as bike racks, for bikers. Seats were people can site a while. Install an upright piano outside such as Hudson has. Ask Milddlesex Bank to put one under cover in front of their Main St. office.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Decorated Concord Center with flowers on lamp posts and shops like West Concord.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Also encourage shops to install benches in front of their business such as Sally Ann Bakery and Main St. Market and Cafe have.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

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.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Ask the Select Board to communicate with the retailers find out how to support them.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

Make Downtown Concord free parking to encourage walk in traffic is what is lacking now.

Commented on Envision Concord ^{6 years, 1 month ago}

The Post Office is in Prim Retails Space Move it to Keyes Road location, model it as we did in West Concord no steps place to drive through to mail a letter. Use the present building as an indoor mall for many small retailers.

Bill Montague

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