2006-06-00 Lexington Heritage Landscape Report

Browse Search

■ Continue a program of public outreach and communication to community members regarding the Scenic Byway designation. Develop legislative support for designation of a Scenic Byway at the state and federal levels. Cottage Street Neighborhood The Cottage Street neighborhood is a cohesive mid-to late-19th century neighborhood of small-scale worker housing on small lots. It includes houses on Cottage Street,Woburn Street and Vine Street. The location just east of downtown and its proximity to the bikeway make this a desirable area. As in many small older neighborhoods,there is considerable pressure to tear down older homes and combine lots to create large new houses that are out of scale with the neighborhood. Recommendations The Historical Commission is in the best position to take a leadership role in promoting the preservation of this neighborhood, which has been documented on an MHC area form. To preserve the integrity of this architecturally and historically significant neighborhood: ■ Prepare a National Register Nomination for the Cottage Street neighborhood. ■ Develop a study report to consider a neighborhood architectural conservation district, which is a preservation strategy to preserve the neighborhood character. See Downtown and Neighborhood Character in General Preservation Planning Recommendations for details on adopting a neighborhood architectural conservation district bylaw. ■ Develop rehabilitation standards to assist property owners in preserving character defining features of these architecturally significant properties. Cotton Farm The Cotton Farm is a very visible property along Marrett Road that includes a mid-20th century house and small orchard with wetlands and woodlands at the rear of the property. The primary significance of this parcel is as a link to an important open space corridor in the eastern part of town. Recommendations The Conservation Commission is the appropriate agency to take the lead on preserving options for preservation of the backland associated with this property. ■ Work with owner to explore options for preservation of backland, such as a conservation restriction. ■ Work with owner to explore easement along the cart path from the north end of the property to Clarke Middle School. Massachusetts Heritage Landscape Inventory Program 6 Lexington Reconnaissance Report