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12-31-57 developed. If the estimated area needed for schools, ' recreational areas, commercial and governmental use is deducted from the gross area available for development, there will probably be about 7280 more dwellings built in town. Using a ratio of about 3.8 persons per dwelling unit, it is estimated that the number of people which could be housed in these new units would be approximately 27,700. If this number is added to present population of the town, Lexington will eventually have about 50,000 residents. When will Lexington have a population of this number? Perhaps earlier than most people realize. This town's rate of growth is following a trend of increasing accel- eration, especially in the 1940-55 period. If it is assumed that the rate which has been in. effect for this fifteen -year period will continue, it is estimated that Lexington will have a population of about 40,100 in 1965 and reach 50,000 before 1970. If, on the other hand, it is assumed that the town's rate of growth will remain steady at an annual increase of approximately 1006 persons, then it will be 1984 before most of the total possible dwellings will have been constructed in Lexington. Economic Base Very intimately connected with studies of population ' data are those of the economic base of the community. Such studies are essential not only in forecasting the growth of the community and the facilities and land that will be required for various purposes but also in formu- lating a sound program for development of the economic resources of the community. Much of the pertinent in- formation needed for formulating such a program has been obtained by studying census and department of commerce data and, as will be noted later, by studying all the land in Lexington. A general proposed land use map is now being prepared for your consideration. It is recom- msnded tta tone of the next steps taken, in conjunction with the preparation of a detailed plan of proposed land use, be the formulation of a program for strengthening the economic structure of this town. Land Use and Conservation. In the preparation of a long range plan for the town, one.of the studies emphasized has been that of Lexing- ton's land uses and natural resources and the preparation of a program for protecting and developing these lands and resources. Particular attention. has also been, given to relating this study and program to a similar one con- cerning this town's recreational needs and open spaces. ' In carrying on these studies I believe I have examined every parcel of land in Lexington noting its condition,