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Cotton Farm, another priority heritage landscape,is located a short distance to the southwest along Marrett Road. Pelham Road, south of and perpendicular to Massachusetts Avenue, is the site of several other large properties that were also part of the former Tower Estate. The institution referred to locally as the Grey Nuns is a former convent that has now been converted to assisted living for senior citizens known as Youville Place Assisted Living at 10 Pelham Road. An important aspect of the development is a 150' easement established along the Massachusetts Avenue frontage providing a permanent open space buffer. Other large institutions along Pelham Street include the Armenian Sisters Academy at 20 Pelham Road and the Meadowridge Pelham Academy at 13 Pelham Road. The western portion of the Tower Park Area contains several historically significant witness houses: Munroe Tavern, Sanderson House and Mason House as well as Tavern Lane, a secondary road. Recommendations All these institutions are located on large lots that contribute to the rural character of the area. While all appear to be relatively stable at this point, institutions by their very nature are subject to change. Since the value of this area is based on both natural and cultural resources,the Conservation Commission, Historical Commission and Planning Board should work together with the institutional owners to develop a strategy for preserving the general character of this area. ■ Document the large institutional properties on MHC inventory forms, include landscape features as well as buildings. Use this understanding of the area's history to build a case for preserving this scenic area,particularly the view from Massachusetts Avenue CRITICAL CONCERNS In addition to the priority landscapes listed in the previous section,residents also identified critical concerns related to heritage landscapes and community character. These are town-wide issues that are linked to a group or category of heritage landscapes, not to a particular place. They are listed in alphabetical order. Community members also expressed interest in learning about preservation tools and strategies that have been effective in other Massachusetts communities and in identifying sources for preservation funding. Landscape Stewardship Lexington has a long tradition of stewardship of natural resources that includes town agencies as well as non-profit groups and private individuals. It has written management plans for many town-owned properties. A particular concern articulated at the heritage landscape meeting was the disappearance of the i xarudsc.q)c Il1[vv'e�o y t'rogiiallru 12