HomeMy WebLinkAboutLexington OSRP Update 2015_FINAL REPORT_01-14-16
Town of Lexington
OPEN SPACE AND
RECREATION PLAN
Update 2015
Town of Lexington
OPEN SPACE AND
RECREATION PLAN
Update 2015
i Table of Contents September 2015
Table of Contents
1. Plan Summary ................................................................................................................. 1-1
2. Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1 Statement of Purpose ............................................................................................. 2-1
Introduction ....................................................................................................... 2-1
Previous Open Space and Recreation Plans .................................................... 2-1
2.2 Planning Process and Public Participation ............................................................. 2-5
Planning Process .............................................................................................. 2-5
Public Participation ........................................................................................... 2-7
2.3 Enhanced Outreach and Public Participation ......................................................... 2-8
3. Community Setting ........................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1 Regional Context .................................................................................................... 3-1
Introduction ....................................................................................................... 3-1
Physical Location and Characteristics .............................................................. 3-1
Climate .............................................................................................................. 3-2
Open Space Regional Context ......................................................................... 3-2
3.2 History of the Community ........................................................................................ 3-4
Overview ........................................................................................................... 3-4
3.3 Population Characteristics ...................................................................................... 3-6
Total Population ................................................................................................ 3-6
Population Distribution and Density .................................................................. 3-8
Sex and Age Composition ................................................................................ 3-8
Race and Ethnic Composition ........................................................................... 3-8
Household Composition .................................................................................... 3-9
Income Characteristics ................................................................................... 3-10
Environmental Justice Population(s) Characteristics ...................................... 3-13
Implications of Population Composition and Trends ....................................... 3-15
3.4 Growth and Development Patterns ....................................................................... 3-15
Patterns and Trends ....................................................................................... 3-15
Infrastructure ................................................................................................... 3-19
Long-term Development Patterns ................................................................... 3-21
ii Table of Contents September 2015
4. Environmental Inventory and Analysis ..................................................................... 4-1
4.1 Geology, Soils and Topography .............................................................................. 4-1
Geology ............................................................................................................. 4-1
Soils .................................................................................................................. 4-2
Topography ....................................................................................................... 4-3
4.2 Landscape Character .............................................................................................. 4-6
Introduction ....................................................................................................... 4-6
Major Characteristics or Unusual Geologic Features........................................ 4-6
Areas of Archaeological Interest ....................................................................... 4-7
4.3 Water Resources .................................................................................................... 4-7
Watersheds ....................................................................................................... 4-7
Surface Water ................................................................................................. 4-10
Functions of Lexington's Brooks ..................................................................... 4-11
Certified Vernal Pools ..................................................................................... 4-12
Flood Hazard Areas ........................................................................................ 4-14
Wetlands ......................................................................................................... 4-14
Aquifer Recharge Areas .................................................................................. 4-14
4.4 Vegetation ............................................................................................................. 4-15
Introduction ..................................................................................................... 4-15
Unusual Vegetation Types .............................................................................. 4-17
Public Shade Trees ......................................................................................... 4-21
4.5 Fisheries and Wildlife ............................................................................................ 4-22
Introduction ..................................................................................................... 4-22
Wildlife Corridors ............................................................................................. 4-22
Inventory ......................................................................................................... 4-24
4.6 Scenic Resources and Unique Environments ....................................................... 4-26
Introduction ..................................................................................................... 4-26
Unusual Geologic Features ............................................................................ 4-31
4.7 Environmental Challenges .................................................................................... 4-32
5. Open Space and Recreation Inventory ....................................................................... 5-1
5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 5-1
5.2 Types of Open Space and Recreation Land Protection .......................................... 5-3
5.3 Inventory of Open Space and Recreation Resources ............................................. 5-5
5.4 Park and Open Space Equity .................................................................................. 5-5
5.5 Important Open Space and Recreational Resources ........................................... 5-31
6. Community Goals ........................................................................................................... 6-1
6.1 Description of Process ............................................................................................ 6-1
6.2 Goals ....................................................................................................................... 6-7
iii Table of Contents September 2015
7. Analysis of Needs ........................................................................................................... 7-1
7.1 Summary of Resource Protection Needs ................................................................ 7-1
General Open Space and Recreation Needs ................................................... 7-1
Regional Resource Protection Needs ............................................................... 7-2
Historical Resource Protection Needs .............................................................. 7-2
Water Resource Protection Needs ................................................................... 7-3
Fisheries and Wildlife Protection Needs ........................................................... 7-4
Vegetation Protection Needs ............................................................................ 7-4
7.2 Summary of Community Needs .............................................................................. 7-5
Park and Recreation Needs .............................................................................. 7-5
Recreation Land Acquisition ............................................................................. 7-7
Enterprise Fund ................................................................................................ 7-9
Lexington Parks and Playing Fields .................................................................. 7-9
Five Year Capital Plan .................................................................................... 7-13
ADA Issues ..................................................................................................... 7-14
SCORP ........................................................................................................... 7-14
7.3 Management Needs, Potential Change of Use ..................................................... 7-16
Need for Open Space and Recreation Facility Management Plans ................ 7-16
8. Goals and Objectives ..................................................................................................... 8-1
8.1 Vision Statement and Open Space and Recreation Goals and Objectives ............ 8-1
9. Seven Year Action Plan .................................................................................................. 9-1
9.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 9-1
9.2 Accomplishments Since the 2009 Plan ................................................................... 9-4
9.3 Seven Year Action Plan .......................................................................................... 9-8
iv Table of Contents September 2015
Maps
Regional Context ............................................................................................................... Map 1
Environmental Justice Populations .................................................................................... Map 2
Zoning Map ........................................................................................................................ Map 3
Soils and Geologic Features .............................................................................................. Map 4
Topography ........................................................................................................................ Map 5
Water Resources ............................................................................................................... Map 6
Subwatersheds ................................................................................................................ Map 6a
Natural Habitats ................................................................................................................. Map 7
Unique Features ................................................................................................................ Map 8
Open Space and Recreation Inventory .............................................................................. Map 9
Action Plan and Priorities ................................................................................................. Map 10
Appendices
Open Space and Recreation Plan Survey and Results ............................................. Appendix A
Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance and Survey ........................................... Appendix B
Letters of Approval ..................................................................................................... Appendix C
1
Plan Summary
The Town of Lexington is a suburban community with an interesting array of open
spaces and parks within its borders. The Town has addressed open space, natural
resource, and recreation issues on a number of different fronts as described in this
plan. The Town recognizes the need to improve and upgrade park facilities and
efforts to preserve and protect existing open spaces are widely recognized and deeply
felt by Lexington residents.
This document represents an update to the 2009 Open Space and Recreation Plan.
Since the adoption of that plan, the Town has embarked on a number of initiatives
that has resulted in implementation of a number of its recommendations. A list of
Conservation and Recreation accomplishments is included in Section 9, Seven-Year
Action Plan. This 2015 Plan includes an updated inventory of Lexington's open
spaces, documents open space and recreation needs, establishes priorities for
preservation of natural and historical resources, provides an update to its capital
planning program, incorporates plans for new programs such as the Community
Center and the ACROSS Lexington pathway system, and establishes an ambitious
program to continue the expansion and modernization of its park and recreation
system. Overall, this Plan reaffirms Lexington's desire to meet the following goals:
Goal 1. Establish and implement a land management program that will assure
optimal maintenance and use of conservation lands.
Goal 2. Protect Lexington’s natural environment, both within and beyond the
borders of open space and recreational properties.
Goal 3. Promote public use of recreational facilities and open space among a wide
variety of user types.
Goal 4. Provide a balance of recreational activities across all demographic groups of
Lexington citizens.
Goal 5. Enhance access to and connectivity between open space and recreation areas.
1-1 Chapter 1 – Summary September 2015
Goal 6. Acquire and protect parcels that are important from an environmental,
recreational, or historical perspective.
Goal 7. Protect and maintain Lexington’s water resources.
Goal 8. Maintain and expand Lexington’s open space and recreational infrastructure.
Goal 9. Expand upon and create new opportunities for bicycling and walking
throughout Lexington.
Lexington's open space and park system is a precious and limited resource that has
grown over the years to provide a wide variety of opportunities for local and area
residents. This Plan presents open space goals, objectives, and actions that will guide
the Town's open space and recreation philosophy, planning, and management
through 2021.
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2
Introduction
Statement of Purpose
Introduction
The purpose of this plan is to provide both a targeted framework and strategy for
future growth and management of Lexington’s open space and recreation resources.
It is an update of the 2009 Open Space and Recreation Plan and comes at a time when
the demand for open space and recreation has remained high. This updated plan will
assist Lexington in making intelligent decisions about its future open space and
recreation policies, particularly with respect to greenway connections and community
agriculture, as well as maintenance and enhancement of existing facilities. The
purpose of this plan is to make those decisions clear and prioritize them relative to the
Town’s needs. This document is dynamic and meant to effect change in the way that
Lexington plans for and manages its open space and recreation resources.
Previous Open Space and Recreation Plans
1976 Open Space and Recreation Plan
Lexington’s first comprehensive planning effort coincided with the establishment of
the Conservation Commission in the mid-1960’s.
Realizing that the recreation needs of the Town were not adequately addressed, a
groundswell of citizens urged and supported A Master Plan for Recreation and Open
Space for Lexington, Massachusetts, Lexington Planning Board, November 1976.
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The 1976 Plan was initiated by a Town Meeting appropriation. A special advisory
committee produced the plan after two years of work by professional consultants and
the advisory group—made up of representatives of the Planning Board, Recreation
Committee, Conservation Commission, senior citizens, youth groups, athletic leagues,
and the Athletic Director for Lexington Public Schools, among others.
Envisioned in that plan was the acquisition of 1,080 acres of open space land for
possible recreation and preservation of critical wetlands. The initial acquisition
planning was branched into recreation, land management, wetland, and a vast array
of human and conservation needs.
1977 Conservation Master Plan
The 1977 Conservation Master Plan, supported by the Conservation Commission, the
Planning Board, the Recreation Commission, and the Board of Selectmen and
approved by Massachusetts’ Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, was based
upon the plan of 1976 and refined aspects of conservation planning, such as land
acquisition and management, not detailed in the 1976 Plan.
Immediately after the submission of the 1977 Plan, enormous strides were made in
bringing conservation and recreation concerns together. The Conservation
Administrator became Director of Conservation and Recreation, and a full-time
recreation coordinator was hired. Accomplishments included the building of the
Center Pool Complex and creation of more diversified programming.
The arrival of Proposition 2 ½ in 1980 froze plan implementation and caused cutbacks
in recreation programs and newly budgeted land management funds. Town staffs
were not increased, though workloads did, and funding was a constant problem.
These distractions delayed land acquisition and implementation of many programs
recommended by the plan.
1984 Open Space and Recreation Plan
The 1976 Plan became the “base plan” for the 1984 Open Space and Recreation Plan. By
1984, Lexington owned 940 acres of protected open space, with another 60 acres under
conservation restrictions.
The 1984 Open Space and Recreation Plan was prepared by the Conservation
Commission and Recreation Committee, with considerable assistance from the
Planning Board and Metropolitan Area Planning Council Representatives. The plan
was supported by the Conservation Commission, the Planning Board, the Recreation
Committee, and the Board of Selectmen, and approved by Massachusetts’ Executive
Office of Environmental Affairs.
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First attempts at this plan were initiated by the Conservation Commission and
Recreation Committee in the summer of 1983, with a first draft attempted several
months later. In January, the Conservation Commission realized that the plan needed
more documentation and broader input from citizens. Fortunately, the plan’s needs
were supplied when Stewardship Committee members, recreation enthusiasts, and
concerned citizens aided immensely with significant contributions.
The quality and quantity of response from a stewards meeting and two public
hearings (one for conservation, one for recreation), attended by 40 citizens
representing a broad range of interests (Town Meeting members, sports leagues,
Garden Club, Citizens for Lexington Conservation, senior citizens, youth groups,
Selectmen) was enormous, and the result of this effort and enthusiasm was the
completion of the 1984 plan.
1997 Open Space and Recreation Plan
In 1990, an attempt was made to update the 1984 Plan, but new guidelines issued by
the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs’ Department of Conservation Services
forced facilitators of this plan to realize that “preparation of this plan involves more
than the updating originally envisioned.”
At the time, the Planning Department was in the process of preparing two significant
reports—one on Land Use and the other on Population Characteristics— which
would not be completed until 1993. A comprehensive study of the Town’s brooks
would also not be completed until 1993.
It became apparent that the writing of this plan should be delayed until these reports,
which were to contain significant information concerning open space and recreational
properties, were complete.
In 1994, the Report on Community Conversations held in 1993 was published. In 1995,
the Commonwealth approved the Open Space Bond Bill, allowing towns and cities a
chance to apply for Self-Help funding. Also in 1995 the Land Acquisition Planning
Committee was formed to “carefully review all of the open space in Town, both
private and publicly owned, that does not have permanent protection.” Additionally,
the Historical Guide to Open Space in Lexington by Thomas P. Sileo was published in
1995, and nearly 200 acres of open space was transferred to the Conservation
Commission. It became clear that the time was right to complete a new open space
plan. The result of this realization, The 1997 Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan,
focused on three important elements of the Town:
• Water resources
• Existing open space properties
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• Historic integrity
The 1997 Plan also recommended a broader approach to accomplishing these goals. It
established a five-year action plan for accomplishing open space acquisition and
stewardship, as well as expansion of the recreational programs and facilities available
to Lexington residents. A number of the recommendations were accomplished,
although some land targeted for future acquisition was lost to development.
2009 Open Space and Recreation Plan
Unlike the 1997 Plan, the 2009 Plan aimed to take a more specific approach to
accomplishing its goals. The 1997 Plan’s broad focus set policy goals that were
generally maintained in the 2009 update. By providing specifically focused goals and
action items, the 2009 Plan attempted to set the stage for more progressive open space
and recreation planning in the future.
The 2009 Plan used the information from the 1997 Plan and substantially updated it in
conformance with the March 2008 Open Space Planners Workbook revisions as required
by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Although the 2009 Plan recommended
specific actions, its flexibility accommodated a realistic and practical approach to
preserving, enhancing, and expanding the Town’s open space and recreational
resources. Thus, the contents of the 2009 Plan included an updated and revised
inventory of open space parcels, an open space and recreation strategy in the new
five-year action plan, a program for administering and achieving the plan’s goals and
objectives, and a prioritization of those recommendations.
As part of the 2009 planning process, Richard Thuma, a member of the Recreation
Committee, undertook an extensive survey for the Town to determine compliance
with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with respect to
accessibility to Town-owned open spaces and recreational facilities.
The purpose of the 2009 Open Space and Recreation Plan update was to:
• Utilize the Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan from 1997 and update
its information to create a document that outlines a five-year plan of action
with the Town agencies and Lexington’s community organizations for the
protection, caretaking, and enhancement of its park facilities and open spaces.
• Make the Town eligible for Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity (LAND)
and Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC)
funding from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and increase its
Commonwealth Capital score.
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• Increase awareness and knowledge among residents who live in Lexington
and other nearby communities about the open space and recreation amenities
and needs that exist in Town.
• Formulate a stronger community base that will assist with administering and
implementing the Open Space and Recreation Plan and sustain a commitment
to the protection and enhancement of the Town’s open space and recreation
resources.
2015 Open Space and Recreation Plan Update
The 2015 Open Space and Recreation Plan Update is organized to provide an overall
baseline of information regarding what physical resources exist in Lexington
regarding properties, facilities, and infrastructure. The plan serves as an
informational resource that inventories and describes resources, opportunities, and
challenges. Lexington should consider this Open Space and Recreation Plan Update a
blueprint to follow for the next seven years that will help the Town attain its goals
and objectives regarding open space and natural resources.
Much was accomplished since the preparation of the 2009 Plan. A description of these
accomplishments can be found in Section 9. This Plan builds on the goals of the 2009
Plan and its implementation program to expand upon the ongoing and planned
programs for the next seven years. The Town has created new opportunities for
residents and visitors to participate in open space and recreation activities through
such programs as ACROSS Lexington and the soon-to-be-completed Community
Center, and these are described in detail within the Plan. Additionally, the Town
recently prepared its first Recreation Strategic Work Plan. The goals and objectives
(see Section 8) have been revised to reflect Lexington’s current needs, which are
detailed in Section 7.
Planning Process and Public Participation
Planning Process
VHB, the consultant selected to prepare this plan, worked closely with the Lexington
Recreation Department, Conservation Department, Conservation Commission,
Recreation Committee, Greenways Corridor Committee, Bicycle Advisory Committee,
and the broader Lexington community throughout the planning process. To ensure a
solid line of communication between all the parties involved in preparation of the
Plan, periodic coordination meetings were held both in the Lexington Town Office
2-5 Chapter 2 – Introduction September 2015
Building and via teleconference calls. Geoffrey Morrison-Logan served as project
manager for the Plan Update with Peter Coleman, Supervisor of Recreation and
Community Programs; Karen Simmons, Director of Recreation and Community
Programs; Karen Mullins, Director of Community Development/Conservation
Administrator; Jordan McCarron, Conservation Stewardship Program Coordinator;
and Aaron Henry, Assistant Planning Director, of the Town of Lexington providing
direction and support.
A key step in the planning process was site visits to significant open space and
recreation parcels in Lexington during the fall of 2014. The tour was guided by staff
from the Recreation and Community Programs and Conservation Departments and
provided a means of gaining insight into the condition, type, and quality of
Lexington’s open space and recreation resources.
After becoming acquainted with Lexington’s resources, work began on formulating a
draft of the Plan. The draft was heavily shaped by the public participation portion of
the planning process, which will be detailed in the next section.
The update of the Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan was a highly
collaborative effort that focused heavily on how to best implement the Plan. Moving
forward, residents and visitors will have numerous open space and recreation
opportunities to look forward to as this Plan is implemented.
Pine Meadows Golf Club
(left) and Idylwilde
Community Garden
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Public Participation
Public input was extensively sought during the planning process through various
channels designed to reach the broadest possible audience. Two public forums were
held in the process of updating the Plan. These events were advertised through online
and print media in an effort to equally engage the entire Lexington population. Both
of the forums were held at the Samuel Hadley Public Services Building with the first
occurring in November 2014 and the second held in February 2015. The forums
served to inform the public on open space and recreation planning in general, the
progress of the Plan, as well as to seek input on how to shape the new Plan. The
forums provided valuable insight into what the citizens of Lexington felt the most
important areas of the Plan should be and how to successfully fulfill them. Two key
exercises were performed at the first public forum to reach these conclusions:
• A Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) exercise
• A voting exercise designed to validate and update the goals and objectives
from the 2009 Open Space and Recreation Plan
In addition to the two public forums held in the update process, there was also an
open space and recreation survey distributed via the Town, both online and in print,
to Lexington residents for the span of one month and half from the end of October to
mid-December. The online survey was available to anyone with computer access and
the paper version was made available at several Town office locations. The
availability of the survey was advertised through various local media outlets as well
as the Town website. The survey received a total of 838 responses. Printed surveys
collected were manually input into the online survey system for easy data export and
analysis. All of the survey results were then tallied and analyzed by VHB.
The 2015 Plan Update also employed the latest online public engagement tool called
MindMixer. The Town of Lexington maintains a well-recognized MindMixer site
named LexEngage where residents and visitors alike can share opinions and engage
Public participation at the
November 2014 public forum
2-7 Chapter 2 – Introduction September 2015
in discussions. New topics featuring the 2015 Open Space and Recreation Plan
Update were created to solicit public input through LexEngage.
The plan update was also discussed with the Board of Selectmen, Planning Board,
Recreation Committee, Bicycle Advisory Committee, and Conservation Commission.
The survey results can be seen in Appendix A along with a voting dot and SWOT
exercise summary from the first public forum and the summary report of the
MindMixer topics.
Enhanced Outreach and Public Participation
According to MassGIS and the 2010 U.S. Census data, half of all the census block
groups in Lexington were identified as Environmental Justice populations as a result
of either minority or foreign born populations exceeding 25 percent of the total block
group population (see Map 2, Environmental Justice Populations).This is largely the
result of an influx of immigrant families over the past decade pursuing good school
systems and healthy living environments that the Town of Lexington offered (more
details in Section 3 Community Settings). These populations resided throughout the
community, including the EJ neighborhoods. The latest 2009-2013 American
Community Survey estimated that 20 percent of Lexington residents were foreign
born non-native English speakers, and a vast majority – 93 percent – of these people
spoke English well, indicating that there is virtually no English language isolation in
Lexington.
The Town has been dedicated to an inclusive and enhanced public outreach process
to meaningfully engage all Lexington residents. The various public engagement
strategies utilized throughout the planning process were designed to equally reach
the broadest possible audience in Town. As part of the enhanced outreach effort, the
Town has conducted major public outreach during the 2014-2015 Flu Clinics,
including distribution and completion of the open space and recreation community
survey as well as publication of the public meetings. Several of these health clinics
were held in EJ neighborhoods and interpreter services were provided by the Town at
these events (see Flu Clinics location and schedule below).
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Table 2-1 Town of Lexington 2014-2015 Flu Clinic/Enhanced Outreach Schedule
Date Location Hours Ages Vaccine type offered at the free public flu clinics
September 24, 2014
(Wednesday)
St. Brigid’s - Kielty Hall, 1997 Massachusetts Avenue 10:00 AM 1:00 PM Senior Clinic (60 years +)
Flu Shot vaccine
Pneumonia Shot
October 25, 2014 (Saturday)
Clarke Middle School Gymnasium
17 Stedman Rd
9:00AM 12:00 PM
Public Clinic
(Ages 3 and above)
Flu Shot vaccine
“Flumist”
November 5, 2014
(Wednesday)
Diamond Middle School Library
99 Hancock Street
4:00PM
7:00PM
Public Clinic
(Ages 3 and above)
Flu Shot vaccine
“Flumist”
November 20, 2014
(Thursday)
(Closed to Public)
St. Brigid’s - Kielty Hall, 1997 Massachusetts Avenue
1:00 PM
4:00 PM
Closed to the Public
(TOL+LPS employees)
Flu Shot vaccine
December 3, 2014
(Wednesday)
Lexington High School Media Room
251 Waltham Street
4:00PM
7:00PM
Public Clinic
(Ages 3 and above)
Flu Shot vaccine
“Flumist”
December 8, 2014
(Monday)
Katahdin Woods Apartment Complex Community Room, 1 Katahdin Drive
5:00 PM 7:00 PM
Public Clinic
(Ages 3 and above)
Flu Shot vaccine
“Flumist”
January 7, 2015
(Wednesday)
Avalon at Lexington Hills Community Room 1000 Main Campus Drive
5:00 PM 7:00 PM
Public Clinic
(Ages 3 and above) Flu Shot vaccine
The success of the enhanced public outreach process is evidenced by the historic
record of survey responses and the well-attended public forums. In addition, it is
important to note that Lexington’s open space and recreation resources are well
distributed throughout the Town, as seen in the Open Space and Recreation map (see
Map 9, Open Space and Recreation Inventory). Each and every of the EJ census block has
equal and adequate access to the Town’s open space and recreation opportunities.
Moving forward, the Town will work towards providing more translated material to
ensure that the environmental justice populations are made aware of open space and
recreational opportunities within close proximity to the homes. Additional enhanced
outreach can occur within nearby religious institutions and through the civic groups
that work with residents lacking English proficiency.
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2-10 Chapter 2 – Introduction September 2015
3
Community Setting
Regional Context
Introduction
Lexington is located in eastern Massachusetts within Middlesex County. According to
the U.S. Census data, the Town’s population in 2010 was 31,394, representing a 3.4
percent increase or 1,039 additional people from year 2000. Its neighboring
communities include: Winchester, Woburn, Belmont, Waltham, Lincoln, Arlington,
Bedford, and Burlington (see Map 1 Regional Context).
Lexington’s location provides easy access to both Boston and surrounding towns via
two major roadways, Routes 95/128 and 2. Because of this, several of Lexington’s
roads are used as alternate routes home for those living in surrounding towns and
cities. These roads include: Massachusetts Avenue, Bedford Street, Waltham Street,
Woburn Street, Maple Street (Route 2A), and Lowell Street.
Physical Location and Characteristics
The Town of Lexington is located in the eastern plateau of Middlesex County at
42.26N Latitude, 71.13W Longitude and contains 10,650.42 acres or 16.64 square miles
of land within its bounds. The character of Lexington is formed by its numerous
smoothly rounded hills and broad, shallow stream valleys. Some points of
topographical importance include: the Town’s highest point at the summit of Whipple
Hill, at 374 feet above sea level; the lowest point in Lexington, Tophet Swamp, at 110
feet above sea level; and in the center of Town, Lexington Battle Green, which lies 224
feet above sea level.
3-1 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
The hills and ridges of Lexington have no general pattern, and the valleys are drained
by small, sluggish streams. One of these streams, Hobbs Brook, supplies a reservoir
used by the City of Cambridge for public water supply. Approximately 60 percent of
the Town’s area is drained to the Shawsheen River, with the Charles and Mystic
Rivers receiving the balance of annual runoff.
Climate
The climate of Lexington is marked by four distinct seasons: a long, cold winter; a
wet, cool spring; a warm, humid summer; and a wet or dry fall. The warmest month
is typically July, and the coolest month is typically January. The Town’s precipitation
averages 47 inches annually and is evenly distributed throughout the year, with the
average wettest month being November.1 Lexington is frost free for an average of five
months and the mean annual temperature is 51.4 degrees F.
Open Space Regional Context
Of the surrounding communities mentioned above, Arlington, Winchester, Lincoln,
and Burlington have currently valid OSRP’s.2 As described elsewhere in this Plan,
there are shared resources among these communities such as the Cambridge
1 http://www.weather.com 2 Division of Conservation Services, June 10, 2014 plan status. Arlington is updating its OSRP concurrently with Lexington.
Lincoln Park aerial photo
3-2 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Reservoir, a land-locked parcel in Burlington, the Minuteman National Historic Park,
the Arlington Great Meadows, and the Busa Farm parcel, which are addressed in
these plans. Since both the Arlington and Lexington planning efforts overlapped and
were coordinated through the same consultant, common issues between the two
towns were identified and reflected in subsequent recommendations.
Lexington is a member of the Minuteman Advisory Group on Interlocal Coordination
(MAGIC), which is one of eight subregions of the Metropolitan Area Planning
Council (MAPC). MAGIC is a group of 13 communities that meet regularly to discuss
issues of common interest, thereby creating an excellent forum for discussing regional
open space plan issues and opportunities. However, the surrounding communities
comprise four different subregions of MAPC.
Updated in June 2009, MetroFuture3 is the official regional smart growth plan for the
Greater Boston area. The plan includes goals and objectives, along with thirteen
detailed implementation strategies for accomplishing these goals. Several examples of
how this Plan is consistent with MetroFuture include:
• Implementation Strategy 3 – The adoption of the Community Preservation
Act provides flexibility in local revenue generation to strengthen municipal
finance.
• Implementation Strategy 6 – The Lexington OSRP strongly advocates for
increased bicycle, pedestrian, and transit accessibility. Additionally, the
overarching purpose of this Plan is to improve the Town’s open spaces and
parks through by coordinating park planning, land stewardship, leveraging
funding for park maintenance, increasing and maintaining the tree canopy,
and expanding community garden opportunities.
• Implementation Strategy 7 – As demonstrated in this Plan, the
recommendations provide support for the preservation of agricultural
resources and for the protection and preservation of natural resources.
Additionally, this Plan includes discussion of land preservation and
connectivity on a regional basis, particularly as it relates to the ACROSS
Lexington program and the subsequent pedestrian and bicycle connections
with adjacent communities. This is consistent with the MetroFuture goal of
encouraging regional efforts to protect open space and natural resources –
particularly ones that cross municipal borders.
3 http://www.metrofuture.org/
3-3 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
History of the Community
Overview
First settled in 1642 and known as Cambridge Farms, town land was used by early
inhabitants for agriculture. Farmers were attracted by the availability of hay fields,
farming acreage, and the possibilities of land speculation. Early settlers formed their
own parish in 1691 to avoid traveling into Cambridge and incorporated Lexington in
1713. Their main emphasis was on clearing and draining the land in the tradition of
their European forebears. In fact, they were so successful in execution of this pattern
that in 1775 when King George III’s troops were retreating from Concord, they used
two field pieces arrayed east of Lexington Center as cover. Because the parcels were
so bare with no tree cover at all, they provided a clear line of fire to the British
soldiers.
The events of April 1775 inscribed Lexington forever in the pages of American
history. Heralded by the midnight rides of Paul Revere and William Dawes, the
Lexington Minutemen confronted the British Regulars in the early morning hours on
what is now known as the Battle Green. The annual Patriot’s Day celebration and
preserved historic sites pay tribute to that fateful time.
Lexington remained a quiet farming community until 1846 when the extension of a
railroad line from Boston made commuting possible. East Lexington in the mid-19th
century had been the scene of debates on such issues as abolition and temperance.
After the Civil War, professionals settled into newly built large Victorian homes on
Merriam and Munroe Hills. Railroad access allowed Lexington to flourish as a
summer resort, providing a healthy and invigorating atmosphere. Supported by a
growing immigrant population, farming would continue to play an important role in
the local economy well into the 20th century.
3-4 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
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Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 201
Map 1
Regional Context
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
Agriculture is no longer the preeminent land use in Lexington, but it remained
unsurpassed until the mid-20th century. Following the close of World War II, the
increased demand for housing sites accelerated the decline of agriculture and loss of
open land. The rising cost of land made farming and holding of large tracts of land
increasingly costly and drove many farmers out of business. As a result of the Town’s
early zoning bylaws and the construction of Route 95/128, residential growth and the
Town’s population accelerated. In 1950, the Town down-zoned the residential
districts into what they are today – well after the bulk of the land was subdivided.
Unlike many Massachusetts communities, Lexington experienced little industrial
growth during the industrial revolution. The reason for this was the Town’s lack of
feasible sites for producing energy via water. So instead of industry springing up in
Lexington, it became a vacation spot for well-off Bostonians. In the late 1800’s, several
country hotels opened in town to provide fresh air for Bostonians seeking an escape
from the city.
Today, Lexington is home to over 31,000 inhabitants and has residential
neighborhoods evenly distributed throughout. Commercial and industrial research
facilities are located along the transportation corridors of Routes 2, 95/128, 225, and
Hartwell Avenue. In over 350 years of settlement, the community has mirrored the
political times and the changing technology of each era from subsistence farming to a
theater for the opening event of the American Revolution; from wilderness to a
vibrant community; and from rural to suburban community.4
Population Characteristics
Total Population
Population is an organic measurement that grows and shrinks with the times. It
reacts primarily to transportation technology, the location of jobs, and housing
opportunities. Lexington experienced its peak periods of growth in the decades
following World War I and World War II during the economic prosperity of the
1920’s and 1950’s. The 1950’s were also the apex for new home construction; 30
percent of the housing now in Lexington was built during those ten years. To create a
context for Lexington, it will be judged against its neighbors of: Arlington, Bedford,
Belmont, Burlington, Lincoln, Waltham, Winchester, Woburn, and Concord.
Lexington’s total population has experienced some extreme changes. The years
between 1950 and 1960 marked an increase of 10,356 people in Lexington (59 percent
4 Portions of this section were excerpted from http://www.libertyride.us/history.html
3-6 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
at the time), which was the fourth highest numerical increase in total population by
the ten communities in the study area between 1920 and 1990. In addition,
Lexington’s loss of 2,407 in population during the 1970’s represented the fourth
highest numerical decrease by communities in the study area over the same time
period. Over the past forty years however, Lexington’s population has remained
steady. When Lexington’s population peaked in 1970, there were 31,886 people living
in town, and as of the 2010 Census, the population was down to 31,394. That is only a
drop of 492 in the last 40 years. Lexington’s past shows us that the Town is no
stranger to abrupt population shifts, and according to the Metropolitan Area Planning
Commission’s (MAPC) estimates, the Town might expect another shift over the next
few decades (see Figure 3-1, Population Change 1970–2030 projected).
Figure 3-1 Population Change 1970 – 20305 projected
Source: U.S. Census and MAPC projections
The MAPC predicts Lexington is set for an increase in population over the next 20
years. The difference between the 2010 U.S. Census and the MAPC’s Stronger Region
scenario 2030 forecast shows an increase of 2,514 or approximately 8 percent. Should
this prediction come true, there could be increased pressure on unprotected and
underdeveloped land zoned for residential uses, as well as an increase in demand for
recreational resources.
5 2020 and 2030 Stronger Region projection, http://www.mapc.org/data-services/available-data/projectionshttp://www.mapc.org/2006_projections.html
31,886
29,479 28,974
30,355
31,394
32,359
33,908
26,000
28,000
30,000
32,000
34,000
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030
U.S. Census MAPCStronger Region Projection
3-7 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Population Distribution and Density
The population distribution in Lexington is generally most dense towards the center
of town and disperses outward toward the edge of the community. Population
density ranges from 500 people per square mile to 5,000 people per square mile per
census block. The densest portions of town lie in the northwest along the
Massachusetts Avenue and Bedford Street corridors starting at the Lexington Battle
Green. The least dense part of town is along the western side adjacent to Route 95/128
and runs from the Tophet Swamp in the north down to Hobbs Brook in the south.
Sex and Age Composition
In 2010, Lexington’s population had a small majority of females over males: 16,490
females to 14,904 males. The median age was 45.6, which was up from 44 in 2000 and
more than 14 years older than the 1970 median age. Thus, as a result of the general
trend that reflects an aging population, Lexington has transformed from a town
where the majority of the population was under 30 years old to one where the
majority is older than 30 (see Figure 3-2, Male vs. Female Population in 2010 and Median
Age Change).
Figure 3-2 Male vs. Female Population in 2010 and Median Age Change
Source: U.S. Census and MAPC projections
Race and Ethnic Composition
More than 75 percent of the town’s population is white according to the 2010 U.S.
Census and almost 20 percent describe themselves as being of Asian descent, with the
remainder split between African-American, American Indian, and others.
For a more concise breakdown of Lexington’s population derived from the 2010
Census please see Figure 3-3, Race and Ethnic Composition in 2010.
F
16,490
M
14,904
31
42 44 45.6
1970 1990 2000 2010
3-8 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Figure 3-3 Race and Ethnic Composition in 2010
Source: U.S. Census 2010
Household Composition
As of the 2010 Census, Lexington contained 11,530 households with each household
averaging 2.68 members. Approximately 76.4 percent of these households were
family households. 33.7 percent of all the households contained a married couple with
children under the age of 18, while 9.5 percent were single-parent households. The
family households without children under 18 came in at 37.8 percent of the total. The
nonfamily households accounted for 23.6 percent of all the households in Lexington,
among which 12.1 percent were single-person households with householders 65 years
and over. Consequently, Lexington’s recreation facilities and open space resources
must serve single people, families with children, empty nesters, and youth (see Figure
3-4, Households in 2010).
Figure 3-4 Households in 2010
Source: U.S. Census 2010
76%
20%
3%
1%
0%
White
Asian, Hawaiian, Pacific Islander
Other/Multi-Racial
Black or African American
American Indian/Alaska Native
38.6%
37.8%
21.0%
2.6%
Family households with own children under 18 years old
Family households without own children under 18 years old
One-person households
Other non-family households
3-9 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Income Characteristics
As of 2010, the median household income in Lexington was $130,637, which was a 35
percent increase from the 2000’s value of $96,825. In 1990, approximately 66 percent
of households earned more than $50,000 and in 2000, that number increased by ten
percent to equal 76 percent. In 2010, nearly 81 percent of households earned more
than $50,000. Additionally, the American Community Survey found that the median
household income for the state in 2010 was $64,509 and Lexington more than doubled
the state average at $130,637; see Figure 3-5, Median Household Income and Figure 3-6,
Household Income Distribution in 2010.
Figure 3-5 Median Household Income
Source: U.S. Census 1990, 2000 and 2006-2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
67,389
96,825
130,637
36,952
50,502
64,509
-
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
140,000
1990 2000 2010
Lexington MA
3-10 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Figure 3-6 Household Income Distribution in 2010
Source: 2006-2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Employment
According to the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWB)
Lexington has a labor force of 15,904 in 2013. Of these workers about 734—4.6
percent—were unemployed. The unemployment rate of the Town hovered around 3
to 4 percent between 2001 and 2008. The unemployment rate spiked to 5.8 in 2009 as a
result of the recent economic downturn but has since been decreasing gradually.
The industry employing the most people in Lexington is that of Professional and
Technical Services with 6,893 as the average employment. The industry which employs
the second most is Health Care and Social Assistance with an average employment of
2,502. Please see the table on the following page for a complete breakdown of
industries and their average employment in Lexington.
2.5%
2.7%
3.9%
4.2%
5.7%
8.8%
8.8%
19.8%
15.7%
27.8%
0%5%10%15%20%25%30%
Less than $10,000
$10,000 to $14,999
$15,000 to $24,999
$25,000 to $34,999
$35,000 to $49,999
$50,000 to $74,999
$75,000 to $99,999
$100,000 to $149,999
$150,000 to $199,999
$200,000 or more
3-11 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Table 3-1 Average Employment and Wages by Industry in Lexington, 2013
Average Employment and Wages by Industry in Lexington
Industry Establishments Total Wages Average Employment Average Weekly Wage
Professional and Technical Services 338 $798,514,244 6,893 $2,228
Health Care and Social Assistance 175 $125,489,482 2,502 $965
Manufacturing 22 $384,059,638 2,237 $3,302
Educational Services 36 $99,678,623 1,899 $1,009
Accommodation and Food Services 72 $24,492,734 1,238 $380
Information 42 $111,802,748 1,002 $2,146
Retail Trade 65 $35,487,474 888 $769
Other Services, Ex. Public Admin 191 $21,681,813 651 $640
Management of Companies and Enterprises
15 $112,866,315 647 $3,355
Finance and Insurance 65 $45,948,834 427 $2,069
Administrative and Waste Services 56 $16,336,589 321 $979
Wholesale Trade 45 $35,192,016 259 $2,613
Construction 50 $14,000,472 230 $1,171
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 24 $4,785,683 176 $523
Transportation and Warehousing 9 $7,027,387 137 $986
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 34 $8,457,717 112 $1,452
Source: Commonwealth of MA, Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development—http://lmi2.detma.org/lmi/lmi_town.asp
3-12 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Environmental Justice Population(s) Characteristics
According to the 2010 Environmental Justice Population data provided by MassGIS,
11 census block groups out of a total of 22 census block groups in Lexington were
identified as environmental justice (EJ) populations. These EJ populations are the
result of either minority or foreign born populations exceeding 25 percent of the total
block group population. These EJ populations were located throughout the town and
accounted for 52.9 percent of the entire population in Lexington. The 2010
information represents a significant increase of minority EJ populations in Lexington
from 2000 when there were only three block groups identified as minority EJ
population. This indicates an influx of minority or foreign born immigrants to
Lexington over the decade.
A breakdown of the demographics for each of these EJ populations is contained in the
table below. The block groups have been assigned a number—starting at 1 in the
northwest corner of Lexington and working clockwise. See Map 2 Environmental Justice
Populations, for a visual explanation. As shown in the map, all of the environmental
justice populations are well served by Lexington’s extensive open space and
recreation network.
Environmental Justice Populations in Lexington, 2010
Block Group ID Total Population Total Households Median Household Income Percent of Minority Population
1 2,062 782 135,000 33.2
2 1,435 497 115,769 26.8
3 741 311 94,844 28.3
4 1,944 651 128,393 28.7
5 1,332 469 114,583 27.0
6 3,590 1,608 107,361 37.8
7 1,041 373 173,750 32.4
8 1,662 635 143,295 29.1
9 797 343 136,339 38.1
10 1,131 486 73,170 27.1
11 869 297 91,917 27.8
Source: MassGIS, note: EJ population shapes are based off of census block groups
●●●
Environmental justice
populations are those
segments of the population
that include high
percentages of minority and
low-income people that may
experience
disproportionately high and
adverse human health and
environmental impacts.
●●●
3-13 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
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Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 201
Map 2
Environmental Justice Populations
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
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Interstate
U.S. Highway
State Route
Water Bodies
Open Space and Recreation Areas
2010 Environmental Justice Populations
Implications of Population Composition and Trends
To meet the needs of its population, Lexington must offer recreational amenities and
open space resources for a mixed urban population: single persons as well as
families, youth and the elderly, those with limited English ability and those well-
informed residents, households with their own backyards and those that depend on
public parks. Lexington’s open space and recreation resources should remain varied
and flexible in order to best serve the Town’s population.
Growth and Development Patterns
Patterns and Trends
A Brief History of Open Space in Lexington
1700’s–1900’s
Lexington’s first “open space” property was the Lexington Common, 1.5 acres of land
purchased in 1708 from Benjamin Muzzey (another acre of land was purchased in
1772). The Common, today known world-wide as the Lexington Battle Green, was
used for ballgames, pasturing cows, cattle shows, picnics, and the like. This was
typical of New England’s rural/agricultural communities during the eighteenth and
nineteenth centuries, where private property was not as strictly enforced as today.
Lexington’s landscape provided residents with spring and summer walks, winter
snowshoe tramps, berry-picking, tobogganing, sled rides, and ice-skating, without
much concern for whether or not a property was “public.”
Perhaps the earliest effort to create an “open space” after the Common was purchased
was in 1835 when Eli Robbins erected a three-story observatory on Mount
Independence in East Lexington and built roads and walks intended to increase
public access. About fifty years afterward in 1888, James Munroe began to improve
his land east of Woburn Street and as a part of this project, built a pond intended for
use by the Town’s children for skating.
Through the late 1800’s and into the early 1900’s, Lexington continued to depend on
private generosities. The following is just a sampling of some of these:
• James Munroe’s land behind Munroe Tavern was utilized for tobogganing
3-15 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
• Each spring, Francis B. Hayes opened his 400 acre estate up to anyone
wishing to see his rhododendrons and chrysanthemums
• The old Paint Mine woods in North Lexington, owned by the Simonds family
became a popular woods for fox hunting
• In 1894, the Lexington Field and Garden Club purchased Hastings Park “for
the use of the inhabitants of Lexington forever”
• During the early 1900’s, several parcels of land were given to the Town by
residents for the purpose of establishing public parks
• In 1902, Joseph Van Ness bequeathed land at Pleasant and Watertown Streets
(“Bowman Park”) to the Town
• In 1918, Depot Park (today known as Emery Park) was purchased partly
through the generous donations of private residents
• In 1921, A. E. Scott gifted 40 acres of his land as an addition to the Parker
Street playground
• In 1925, the Ryder family allowed the Town use of its land for the Lexington
Pageant to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington
• In 1928, Ellen M. Tower gifted the Town Tower Park and a trust fund of
$10,000 for its care
• In 1938, J. Willard Hayden, Jr. gifted 25 acres on Lincoln Street to the Town
1900’s–Present
During the late 1800’s, Lexington’s officials saw the need to improve the Town’s
utilities and school system in order to attract residents. Their desire was to keep pace
with other towns throughout Massachusetts. These improvements and the rural
beauty of the Town attracted many wealthy Boston businessmen who purchased
land, established gentlemen farms, and built beautiful mansions. Most of these
mansions have been taken down, but some are still standing, such as the Whiting
House on Adams Street, the Scott House on Waltham Street, many of the homes on
Meriam Hill, the Whipple House (formerly Fairlawn Nursing Home and now the
Lexington Prep School), and the Tower House on Marrett Road (Headquarters of the
Supreme Council of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Free Masonry), which along
with its almost 10 acres of property was purchased by the Town of Lexington and is
being converted into a community center.
3-16 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Lexington’s population began to grow steadily during the early 1900’s and with this
growth came new streets and homes. Concerned about maintaining the residential
quality of the Town while providing services, Lexington citizens established one of
the country's first planning boards in 1918 and adopted its zoning by-laws in 1924. In
addition, the first subdivision regulations were established in 1948.
From 1920 to 1940, the Town’s population more than doubled from 6,350 to 13,113.
The Town’s most rapid development occurred between 1940 and 1960 when the
population reached 28,000. By this time, private property rights were more
vigorously enforced and residents depended on the Town to provide them with
recreation land and to maintain existing public properties.
In 1947, the Town appointed a temporary Recreation Commission to develop the
scope of and establish authority for a recreation program and make recommendations
for the establishment of a permanent Recreation Commission. In 1948, the Town
voted to appoint a Recreation Committee, and in 1956, the Town voted to establish
the Recreation Committee as a by-law committee.
In 1955, the Planning Board proposed and Town Meeting accepted (in 1956) the
establishment of a series of Historic Districts in order to preserve the historic aspect of
the Town. In 1963, the Lexington Planning Board decided to “take stock” of the
Town’s growth. “Lexington is no exception to the dizzying pace at which suburban
communities have grown throughout the nation,” they wrote in their Phase I
Summary Report. “The revolution of the cities has changed the entire fabric of
American life – in a sense, it has changed Lexington too.”
Up to this time, playgrounds and school lots were purchased by the Town one
property at a time. Most of the “open land” parcels were taken as tax-title lots -
Sutherland Heights, lots off Grove Street, and the Meagher land in North Lexington.
In 1956, total Town-owned recreational acreage represented 1.7 percent of the land
within Lexington and by 1962, it represented 5 percent. The Planning Board’s goal
was to increase that percentage to 13.7 percent. At this point in time, town-recreation
land occupies approximately 9.5 percent of the total land area in Lexington, although
private recreational land brings the total of recreation land to 11 percent.
At the time, the Town was just beginning to make a distinction between those
properties designated as “Open Recreational Areas” and those designated as
“Conservation Areas.” The emphasis was still on recreational use: “The objective in
preparing the overall park and recreation plan itself,” the Planning Board wrote in its
1963 Summary Report, “has been and will continue to be that of obtaining sites which
will ‘. . . provide opportunities for all types of desired recreation within reasonable
access of all age groups.’ In addition to and in conjunction with some of the areas and
activities previously mentioned, this objective means having a playground in each
neighborhood, a play field in each section of Town, and pleasantly planted parks and
3-17 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
parkways; providing sites for swimming pools, skating ponds, coasting hills, and
areas where our Boy and Girl Scouts can camp overnight; and selecting and
developing areas where families can participate together in active sports, or enjoy the
more passive pleasures of walks in the woods and enjoying views of the landscape.”
In November 1963, the Lexington Conservation Commission was formed by Town
vote. The Lexington Conservation Commission brought a new perspective to the
Town; the Commission members felt that to protect the health of the community, it
was vital to protect its woods, brooks, ponds, and fields. “Many neighboring
communities,” they wrote in the 1966 Town Annual Report, “show the effects of
uncontrolled development. We now face the critical point at which decisions must be
made concerning the kind of community we will have over the next 50 to 100 years.”
The Commission also attempted to define their idea of conservation: “Conservation is
concerned, not only with the preservation of our natural resources, but also with their
efficient use and management for the benefit of the Town’s citizens.” The members
began to index all the open space available for acquisition. They prioritized each
parcel of land and worked toward protecting them, utilizing eminent domain,
restrictions, gifts, and purchases. Their primary goal was to protect environmentally
important pieces of land, but they also had a secondary goal: to distribute evenly
open space land throughout the Town so that each precinct would contain a
significant parcel for passive recreation.
Their first purchase was Swenson’s Farm (now included in Dunback Meadow) in
1965. The State reimbursement they received for this purchase was the first to be
awarded under the new “Self-Help Plan.” With 90 percent federal funding, this 58
acre parcel cost the Town only $39,550. In 1971, the Commission managed 280 acres
of land, while today it manages around 1,300 acres, with properties evenly distributed
throughout the Town.
In February 2015, the Recreation Department was reorganized and renamed the
Department of Recreation and Community Programs with three divisions: Recreation,
Pine Meadows Golf Club, and the Community Center.
Today, the Conservation Department works closely with the Department of
Recreation and Community Programs, although both departments have shifted focus
from acquisition to maintenance of existing properties, largely because there is less
land available for purchase than in the past.
3-18 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Infrastructure
Transportation
Lexington is crossed by two major highways:
• Route 2, a major connection between Boston and/or the Alewife MBTA
terminal/parking facility and western Massachusetts, has three exit/entry
points within the Town.
• Route 95/128, the major circumferential highway in eastern Massachusetts
since the 1950’s, contains three complete cloverleaf intersections within
Lexington; at Route 2, at Route 2A (Marrett Road), and at Routes 4/225
(Bedford Street). The latter ramps are particularly congested during peak
commute hours, as they access major office/industrial complexes just outside
the Route 95/128 ring as well as Hanscom Field.
The traffic problems associated with these intersection areas have long been
recognized and discussed by several task forces including government, neighborhood
groups, and area businesses. The Town has required traffic studies for projects where
congestion may be a concern and obtained agreements with developers for staggered
work schedules and financial contributions to highway improvements and alternate
transportation.
The Town’s Transportation Advisory Committee has repeatedly attempted to
encourage public transportation for Hartwell Avenue, but temporary extensions of
the local minibus Lexpress and MBTA service along Hartwell Avenue in the early
1980’s failed to gain sufficient support. When the Alewife Station in Cambridge
opened and became the in-town terminus of two of Lexington’s three then-existing
MBTA routes, the Committee urged the addition of Hartwell Avenue to the Route 76
bus. This failed to materialize for lack of a satisfactory turnaround site. Most recently,
the Town, along with the 128 Business Council, launched the REV shuttle. It is part of
a larger trend that seeks to fill gaps in the public transit system. Shuttle buses such as
the REV make mass transit commutes easier by connecting Hartwell to Alewife.
The crown jewel of the Transportation Advisory Committee is Lexpress, the six fixed-
route minibus system that has operated six days a week since 1979 (cutback from
eight routes beginning July 1, 1990, due to budget constraints). These mini-buses
reach many neighborhoods hourly, generally from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lexpress is
credited with saving many car trips to Lexington Center and giving students and
senior citizens mobility. Lexpress depends upon Town appropriations and MBTA
subsidies for over half its support, and the system’s survival continues to be
challenged.
3-19 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
However, Lexpress continues to provide services to an ever growing number of
passengers. Lexpress provides nearly 72,000 rides each year. In 2013, 56 percent of
riders were students, 22 percent were adults, 22 percent were seniors, and 1 percent
were children under age six.6 Monthly ridership figures typically peaks during the
months of May and October.
Minuteman Bikeway
The Minuteman Bikeway along the old Boston and Maine Railroad right of way from
Bedford to Alewife Station was completed in 1993 and is 10.1 miles long. In addition
to providing a bicycle commuter route to Cambridge and the Alewife T station, the
bikeway provides opportunities for recreational bicycling, walking, jogging,
rollerblading, and cross-country skiing, with access to many important areas of
historical importance and natural beauty. In 2008, the Minuteman Bikeway was
named as the fifth inductee into the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Rail-Trail Hall of
Fame.
The Minuteman Bikeway opens up access to existing conservation areas, such as
Parker Meadow, Joyce Miller’s Meadows, Arlington’s Great Meadows, and Tophet
Swamp, and provides an incentive to protect additional land adjacent to it. In
6 http://www.lexingtonma.gov/humanservices/lexpress/about.cfm
Minuteman Bikeway in the fall.
3-20 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
addition, the bikeway provides easy access to the Adams, Muzzey, Munroe, and
Parker recreation facilities.
Water Supply and Sewer Service
The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) supplies Lexington with its
water and sewer services. Most of Lexington is serviced by a public sanitary sewer
system and a public water distribution system. The developed portions of town are
serviced by a separate stormwater system. For the most part, because nearly all of
Lexington has sanitary services available, septic systems are not a major contributing
factor in polluting the brooks or groundwater. However, older sanitary sewers, storm
sewers, and water lines without modern seals are subject to infiltration/outflow
problems.
In 1984, sanitary sewers were improved by the building of the “Millbrook Relief
Sewer” along the old Boston and Maine R.R. right of way (Minuteman Bikeway). This
link serves sewer needs of Bedford and Hanscom Field, relieving Lexington trunk
lines of this burden.
A valuable tool in the management of surface water runoff is the Comprehensive
Drainage Study, accomplished over the years 1976 through 1982, by consultants to the
Town Engineering Department. More recently, Comprehensive Watershed
Management Plans were completed by consultants to the Town Engineering
Department for each of the three watersheds: Charles, Shawsheen and Mystic, which
identified priority projects involving infrastructure improvements and stream and
wetland restoration activities. These studies, plus an infiltration/inflow study and
program for the Town’s sewer system, has enabled the Town to manage sewers and
drainage and to plan needed improvements with sensitivity to the total problem, as
well as the possible impacts on wetlands. A new Stormwater Bylaw was adopted in
the spring of 2008, as part of the Town's NPDES permit, which ensures that a wide
array of development projects (both by right and by special permit) receive a
complete review of their stormwater impacts.
Long-term Development Patterns
Infill vs. Vacant Land Development
Until the mid-1990’s, both commercial and residential development in Lexington
centered on the use of vacant land. As the supply of vacant, developable land
diminishes, new development has increasingly relied on the redevelopment of
underdeveloped property, which is land that has not been developed to the
maximum allowed by zoning. Since this time, the replacement of underutilized or
3-21 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
obsolescent uses by more intensive economic uses has been the predominant
development scenario in Lexington, and is likely to remain that way from this point
forward.
Lexington’s location in the Boston metropolitan area dictates the process of
succession. On the suburban fringe, in the towns near Route 495, development occurs
almost exclusively on vacant land. In the substantially built-out central cities and
first-tier suburbs of the metropolitan area (e.g., Boston, Cambridge, Arlington, etc.),
development occurs almost exclusively through infill redevelopment. Over the last
10 to 15 years Lexington’s development pattern has become more like that of the
metropolitan core than the suburban fringe.
Land development and a strong program of land conservation have resulted in a
striking reduction in the remaining building capacity of the Town. The Town has
largely exhausted its vacant unprotected land supply, with only about 600 acres of the
developable land still available in vacant parcels in residential zones, along with some
underutilized land within “underdeveloped” areas. Less than 10 percent of these 600
acres is in commercial zones. Vacant land might accommodate an additional 900
dwelling units, and some of that potential capacity is likely to be put to other uses,
including open space conservation. Between 2000 and 2012, the Town grew by 638
new dwelling units, the bulk of these (423) were permitted under MGL Ch. 40B. As
these projects brought the town into compliance with that law’s 10 percent standard,
future growth of new units is expected to slow. In the years since achieving
compliance, new residential growth has been less than 20 units per year.
Barring unforeseen regional changes, demand for housing in Lexington will likely
grow while housing supply remains stable. Regional housing market forces are likely
to continue price escalation, making existing modest homes targets for significant
renovations or replacement. It is expected that the trend of land succession is likely to
continue as land becomes an ever-growing proportion of the value of residential
premises; existing buildings become dispensable to owners under many
circumstances. There is much more home building in Lexington than there is net
growth, with work supported by tear-down replacement and additions to existing
homes, which often eclipse the existing units in size. Population change in Lexington
now depends more on the changing demographics of household size and key
characteristics such as the age of those who will occupy existing units rather than the
small number of constructed new dwelling units.
The mansionization trend will have impacts on the Town’s character, including the
loss of relatively modest housing units. On many sites, lot area, frontage, and
buildable land allow substantial expansion, even though on many of those sites some
development already exists. The rate of building replacement housing is likely to
increase. Mansionization is exacerbated by the trend toward a larger residential
square footage per capita in the housing market.
3-22 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
Zoning Changes 2004–2014
The current zoning map for the Town of Lexington is shown on Map 3 Zoning. The
Town has three principal residential districts (two single-family and one two-family),
seven commercial districts, which include neighborhood business, retail, service,
downtown, office and manufacturing; and planned commercial and residential
districts.
The following describes zoning changes and definitive approval of major
developments in the last ten years.
2004
Zoning Changes
• Zoning By-law: 12-18 Hartwell Avenue. Changed designation to CRO from
CD-6
• Zoning By-law: 1010 Waltham Street. Amended RD Zoning Designation to
permit expansion plans for Brookhaven.
• Zoning By-law: Designation for 125, 131, 141 Spring Street. Amended
designation to CD from CRO and RO to allow for redevelopment of former
Raytheon site.
• Amendments to Standards for RD Districts: permits substitution of
dimensional standards for certain projects in large tracts of land.
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
• 47 & 53 Pleasant Street: 7 lots definitive plan approved
• 14 Glen Road South, 3 units
• Hazel Road: 8 units
• Clelland Road, 2 lots, definitive plan approved
2005
Zoning Changes
• Zoning By-law: Battle Green Inn. Adopted November 7. Amended
designation at 1720 Massachusetts Avenue to CD from CB.
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
• Wisteria Lane, off Colony Road: 3 lot subdivision
• 31–35 Cary Avenue: definitive plan approved (5 units, one an accessory)
3-23 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
2006
Zoning Changes
• Amendment to bylaw that sets limits on the amount of impervious surface
allowed for conventional and cluster subdivisions
• Parking in CB District: adjust parking regulations in CB districts.
• Zoning By-law: amend CD-7 to CD-13, 727 Marrett Road (Starwood Hotels
and Resort)
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
• Pine Meadows Farm: 14 units off Cedar Street and Freemont Street, definitive
plan approved
• Woodland Farm Circle: 169 North Street, seven lots in Burlington, Lexington
and Woburn; one partial lot in Lexington; definitive plan approved
2007
Zoning Changes
• Amend Zoning By-law, Tree Management: regarding protection of trees in
cases where Planning Board grants a special permit
• Amend Tree By-law: strengthen by-law managing mature trees in town
• Amend Demolition Delay By-law: regarding the timing of granting
demolition permits for historical buildings.
• Rewrote residential development section of zoning bylaw, commonly known
as cluster bylaw, which regulates percentage of open space in new cluster
subdivisions
• Drafted stormwater bylaw that will meet requirements for federal NPDES
permit
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
• 177 Grove Street, 3 lot cluster (on remand from courts)
• Lexington Hills (18 units off Walnut, part of former Middlesex Hospital).
Definitive Plan approved
• 88, 92–110 Shade Street (Journey’s end) Definitive plan approved for
maximum of 26 units (25 percent left in open space)
• Doran Green: 9 units off East Street. Definitive Plan approved
3-24 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
2008
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
• Lexington Gardens—Lexington Gardens is a landscaping, plant and garden
supply operation that was sold to a developer and will become a residential
subdivision.
• 960–990 Waltham Street: Definitive Plan submitted for 13 units
2009
Zoning Changes
• Establishment of a Transportation Management Overlay District for the
Hartwell Avenue area with an increased FAR for the CM zone, a traffic
mitigation fund and a process for site plan review.
• Beal Company Ledgemont Center at Spring Street and Hayden Avenue – A
request for CD rezoning was presented at the Annual Town Meeting 2009
and was approved.
• Lexington Technology Park at 125 Spring Street, 200, 300, 400 & 500 Patriot
Way - An application to amend the existing CD-10 to allow an increase in the
square footage of office/research spaces and structured parking was
presented at Fall Special Town Meeting 2009 and was approved.
• Cubist at 45-65 Hayden Avenue- An application to amend the existing CD-9
to allow an increase in the square footage of office/research spaces and
structured parking was presented at Fall Special Town Meeting 2009 and was
approved.
• Zoning Amendments allowing additional uses in the Central Business District
(CBD) and removing the requirement for a traffic study for uses in the CBD.
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
Special Permit Residential Developments
Site Sensitive Development
• Murray Hills- Blueberry Lane- Definitive SSD approved to subdivide the
property into four parcels, two of which would be considered buildable.
Balanced Housing Development
• 341 Marrett Road – Definitive plan approved for 8 dwelling units in five
structures. The existing single-family home would be preserved and the
cottage house demolished.
3-25 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
2010
Zoning Changes
• Adopted Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and a Flood Insurance Study
based on the federal government’s updated flood plain maps
• Allowed large scale solar generation facilities as of right in the CM zone as
part of the Green Communities effort
• Expanded the RD-5 district off Lowell Street to allow a single structure
containing 51 rental apartment units in addition to the existing 51 units in the
Countryside Manor development contained in eight multi family structures.
• Changed references within the Zoning Bylaw from “Traffic Management
Overlay District” to “Transportation Management Overlay District”.
• Updated food-related zoning definitions and uses across the Town and
allowed food-related uses by-right for the uses that are already regulated by a
variety of Boards and Commissions.
• In the Center Business District allowed projecting signs by-right and required
a special permit for some bank and credit union uses.
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
Conventional Subdivisions
• 10 Stedman Road – Definitive Street Construction Plan approved
Site Sensitive Development
• 147 Shade Street Definitive Plan approved for two single-family units served
by a shared drive.
• 91-93 Hancock Street Definitive Plan approved for twelve single-family house
lots and one open space parcel.
2011
Zoning Changes
• Removed renovation as a trigger for a traffic study.
• Rezoned an isolated parcel on Hartwell Avenue from RO to CM.
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
Conventional Subdivisions
• Extension of Rockville Avenue – Definitive subdivision plan
Site Sensitive Development
• 1377 Massachusetts Avenue - Definitive plan approved for the creation of five
lots, two to be occupied by the existing single-family house and the carriage
house and two new single-family houses to be located on two other lots. The
fifth parcel would be created as an open space parcel.
Public Benefit Development
3-26 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
• 71-79 East Street - Definitive plan approved for nine buildable lots with two
existing units to remain. One unit to be affordable.
Site Plan Review
• 12-18 Hartwell Avenue – Major Site Plan Review- Construction of two new
buildings to replace the existing building designed for retail and restaurant
uses approved.
2012
Zoning Changes
• Center Zoning Changes - The Planning Board in collaboration with the Center
Committee recommended three changes in the zoning for the Central
Business (CB) District that would allow residential use above the ground floor
and people in those residences to conduct home occupations, and would
increase the maximums for height and floor area ratio (FAR). The residential
use and the home occupations amendments passed while the increased height
was sent back to the Planning Board for further study.
• CD zone for 2013 and 2027 Massachusetts Avenue, the former Dana Home -
The CD zone provides for the preservation and redevelopment of the three
existing structures on these parcels as an inn with 22 guest rooms and a
public restaurant with seating for 54.
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
Site Sensitive Development
• 186-192 Woburn Street—Definitive Plan approved five (5) residential lots
maintaining the existing dwelling at 192 Woburn Street, replacing 186
Woburn Street and the construction of three (3) additional residential unit.
2013
Zoning Changes
• Zoning Bylaw amended in its entirety to meet three broad objectives: 1)
resolve irregularities with state and case law; 2) address internal
inconsistencies within the Zoning Bylaw; and 3) recodify and streamline the
Zoning Bylaw to improve its readability.
• Abolished the RM district which had been a multi-family district in the past
but now no longer allowed such a use
• Abolished the WPD district since its protections duplicated other laws
• Temporary moratorium on Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers, a.k.a.
Registered Marijuana Dispensaries, to allow the Town time to assess the need
for local regulations and fees as well as a complete discussion of appropriate
location for such a facility.
3-27 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
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8-D
A
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f
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6-E FOSTER RD, from Dane Rd.8-C PAGE RD, from Bryant Rd.
5-C
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t
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9-D FOTTLER AVE, Mass. Ave. to Bow St.5-D PARK DRIVE, from Waltham St.
10-
D
A
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7-B FOURTH ST, from Young St.5-D PARKER ST, from Mass. Ave. to Clarke St.
3-F
A
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f
r
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M
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.
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6-A FOX RUN LN, from East St.3-A PARTRIDGE RD, from Turning Mill Rd.
9-C
A
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A
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A
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,
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.
4-F FRANCES RD, Eastern Ave. to Deering Ave.9-C PATRICIA TERRACE, Arlington Line
5-B
A
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,
T
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.
5-C FRANKLIN RD, Meriam St. to Somerset Rd.6-G PATRIOT WAY, from Spring St. to End
7-F
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5-G FREEMAN CIR, Bicentennial Drive 5-D PATRIOTS DRIVE, from Meriam St.
3-E
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E
S
T
,
f
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W
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.
4-E FREEMONT ST, Cedar St. to Constitution Rd.3-E PATTERSON RD, Wood St.
9-E
A
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A
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,
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a
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v
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l
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t
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.
5-B FROST RD, from East St.4-E PAUL REVERE RD, Mass. Ave. to Cedar St.
3-F
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,
f
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.
3-C FULLER RD, Harding Rd. to Bertwell Rd.6-F PAYSON ST, Bridge St. to Grassland St.
4-B
A
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,
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t
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s
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7-B FULTON RD, Lowell St. to Douglas Rd.8-B PEACHTREE RD, Woburn St.
9-D
A
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f
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a
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.
t
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9-E PEACOCK FARM RD, from Watertown St.
9-C
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,
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a
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9-C PEARL ST, from Barlett Ave.
6-E
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,
f
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K
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a
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4-F GAFFORD AVE, Deering Ave. to Fairland St.8-B PEARTREE DR, Lowell St. to Appletree Ln.
7-B
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3-D GARFIELD ST, from Reed St.7-D PELHAM RD, from Mass. Ave.
9-C
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f
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4-E GERARD TERR, from Cedar St.7-D PERCY RD, Mass Ave to beyond Highland
4-E
A
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8-D GIBSON RD, Mass. Ave. to Follen Rd.4-G PHEASANT LN, Lincoln St. to Birch Hill Ln .
3-D
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f
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3-C GLEASON RD, N Hancock St. to Williams Rd.6-F PHILBROOK TERRACE, from Grassland St.
5-E
A
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R
D
,
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
t
o
L
i
n
c
o
l
n
S
t
.
5-C GLEN RD, Meriam St. to Oakland St.8-E PHILIP RD, Buckman to Worthen Rd. East
4-D
A
U
G
U
S
T
U
S
R
D
,
R
e
e
d
S
t
.
t
o
V
a
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
.
6-C GLEN RD SOUTH, Grant St. to Oakland St.5-G PHINNEY RD, Tufts Rd. to Fairbanks Rd.
3-C
A
V
O
N
S
T
,
C
e
n
t
r
e
S
t
.
t
o
b
e
y
o
n
d
M
y
r
t
l
e
S
t
.
8-F GOFFE RD, Worthen Rd.East to Philip Rd.l-B PINE KNOLL RD, from Bedford St l0-E GOLDEN AVE, at Arlington town line8-E PINEWOOD ST, Follen Rd. to Summit Rd.5-D GOODWIN RD, from Hancock St.7-G PIPER RD, from Waltham St.
9-D
B
A
K
E
R
A
V
E
,
T
a
f
t
A
v
e
.
t
o
P
e
a
c
o
c
k
F
a
r
m
R
d
.
2-A GOULD RD, Grove St. to Turning Mill Rd.7-F PITCAIRN PLACE, from Allen St.
4-E
B
A
L
F
O
U
R
S
T
,
C
e
d
a
r
S
t
t
o
A
s
b
u
r
y
S
t
.
4-A GRAHAM RD, Burlington St.8-D PLAINFIELD ST, Mass. Ave. to Tower Rd.
4-C
B
A
L
L
A
R
D
T
E
R
R
,
f
r
o
m
N
o
.
H
a
n
c
o
c
k
S
t
.
5-A GRANGER POND WAY, from Lowell St.9-E PLEASANT ST, Mass. Ave. to Concord Ave.
9-E
B
A
N
K
S
A
V
E
,
C
a
r
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
.
t
o
C
h
a
s
e
A
v
e
.
6-B GRANT ST, from Mass. Ave. to East St.8-D PLYMOUTH RD, Richard Rd. to Robbins Rd.
7-H
B
A
R
B
E
R
R
Y
R
D
,
C
o
n
c
o
r
d
A
v
e
.
6-E GRAPEVINE AVE, Waltham to Kendall Rd.5-C PORTER LN, from Adams St. to End.
8-D
B
A
R
N
E
S
P
L
A
C
E
,
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
6-F GRASSLAND ST, Spring to Valleyfield St.4-E POWERS COURT, from Paul Revere Rd.
8-F
B
A
R
R
E
T
T
R
D
,
W
o
r
t
h
e
n
R
d
.
E
a
s
t
9-F GREAT ROCK RD, from Crescent Rd.3-C PRESTON RD, Simonds Rd. to Simonds Rd.
5-F
B
A
R
R
Y
M
E
A
D
E
D
R
I
V
E
,
L
i
n
c
o
l
n
S
t
.
9-F GREEN LN, from Watertown St.6-F PROSPECT HILL RD, from Marrett Rd.
9-C
B
A
R
T
L
E
T
T
A
V
E
,
L
o
w
e
l
l
S
t
.
4-E GREENWOOD ST, from Paul Revere Rd.
5-E
B
A
S
K
I
N
R
D
,
W
o
r
t
h
e
n
R
d
.
3-A GRIMES RD, from Turning Mill Rd.
2-E
B
A
T
E
S
R
D
,
W
o
o
d
S
t
.
3-B GROVE ST, Burlington St. to Bedford Line 2-B RANGEWAY, from Volunteer Way
4-E
B
A
T
T
L
E
G
R
E
E
N
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
P
a
u
l
R
e
v
e
r
e
R
d
.
9-C RAWSON AVE, Rindge Ave. to Cliffe Ave.
7-C
B
A
T
T
L
E
V
I
E
W
C
I
R
,
f
r
o
m
Y
o
u
n
g
S
t
.
5-D RAYMOND ST, Muzzey St. to Clarke St.
5-D
B
E
D
F
O
R
D
S
T
,
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
t
o
B
e
d
f
o
r
d
L
i
n
e
2-B HADLEY RD, from Eldred St.4-B REDCOAT LN, from Burlington St.
5-D
B
E
L
F
R
Y
T
E
R
R
A
C
E
,
f
r
o
m
F
o
r
e
s
t
S
t
.
4-E HAMBLEN ST, Cedar St. to Bellflower St.4-D REED ST, from Bedford St.
4-E
B
E
L
L
F
L
O
W
E
R
S
T
,
F
r
e
e
m
o
n
t
t
o
B
a
l
f
o
u
r
S
t
.
4-C HAMILTON RD, N Hancock to Ledgelawn 4-C REVERE ST, from Bedford St. to Hancock St.
7-G
B
E
N
J
A
M
I
N
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
C
o
n
c
o
r
d
A
v
e
.
7-G HAMPTON RD, from Concord Ave.4-E REVOLUTIONARY RD, from Ross Rd. to
9-E
B
E
N
N
E
T
T
A
V
E
,
B
a
k
e
r
A
v
e
.
t
o
T
a
r
b
e
l
l
A
v
e
.
5-D HANCOCK AVE, from Hancock St.Constitution Rd.
7-D
B
E
N
N
I
N
G
T
O
N
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
E
l
i
o
t
R
d
.
5-C HANCOCK ST, Bedford St. to Burlington St.8-D RHODES ST, Mass. Ave. to Lockwood Rd.
3-C
B
E
R
N
A
R
D
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
I
v
a
n
S
t
.
t
o
J
u
s
t
i
n
S
t
.
4-E HARBELL ST, Paul Revere to Balfour St.7-D RICHARD RD, Tower Rd. to Follen Rd.
3-C
B
E
R
T
W
E
L
L
R
D
,
N
H
a
n
c
o
c
k
t
o
W
i
l
l
i
a
m
s
R
d
.
3-C HARDING RD, Bedford St. to Williams Rd.3-E RICHMONT CIR. From Martingale Rd. to End
5-C
B
E
R
W
I
C
K
R
D
,
H
a
y
e
s
A
v
e
.
t
o
M
e
r
i
a
m
S
t
.
5-D HARRINGTON RD, Hancock to Mass. Ave.8-E ROBBINS RD, Lexington Ave. to Richard Rd.
5-G
B
I
C
E
N
T
E
N
N
I
A
L
D
R
I
V
E
,
f
r
o
m
C
a
r
y
A
v
e
.
2-D HARTWELL AVE, Bedford St. to Wood St.3-B ROBINSON RD, from Grove St.
4-F
B
I
R
C
H
H
I
L
L
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
L
i
n
c
o
l
n
S
t
.
2-D HARTWELL PLACE, Hartwell Ave.8-E ROCKVILLE AVE, Swan Lane to Philip Rd.
8-E
B
I
R
D
H
I
L
L
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
S
w
a
n
L
N
t
o
D
a
v
i
s
R
d
.
9-C HASKELL ST, Lowell St. to Summer St.7-B ROGERS RD, from Fessenden Way
4-C
B
L
A
K
E
R
D
,
B
u
r
l
i
n
g
t
o
n
S
t
.
t
o
E
a
t
o
n
R
d
.
5-E HASTINGS RD, Lincoln St. to Childs Rd.7-B ROLFE RD, from Woburn St.
3-D
B
L
I
N
N
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
H
i
c
k
o
r
y
S
t
.
5-B HATHAWAY RD, Adams St.5-F ROLLING LN, School St. to Fairland St.
8-B
B
L
O
D
G
E
T
T
R
D
,
A
p
p
l
e
t
r
e
e
t
o
P
e
a
c
h
t
r
e
e
R
d
.
4-B HAWTHORNE RD, from Burlington St.4-F ROOSEVELT RD, from School St.
6-D
B
L
O
O
M
F
I
E
L
D
S
T
,
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
t
o
M
i
n
o
l
a
R
d
.
6-G HAYDEN AVE, Spring St. to Waltham St.4-E ROSS RD, Paul Revere Rd to Oxbow Rd.
8-F
B
L
O
S
S
O
M
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
C
o
n
c
o
r
d
A
v
e
.
5-C HAYES AVE, Hancock St. to Woodland Rd.6-D ROWLAND AVE, from Mass. Ave.
7-F
B
L
O
S
S
O
M
C
R
E
S
T
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
W
a
l
t
h
a
m
S
t
.
6-C HAYES LN, Vine St. to Grant St.3-B ROYAL CIRCLE, from Grove St.
8-B
B
L
U
E
B
E
R
R
Y
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
T
y
l
e
r
R
d
.
3-F HAYWARD AVE, Fairview Ave.7-B RUMFORD RD, Woburn St. to Laconia St.
3-F
B
O
N
A
I
R
A
V
E
,
O
l
d
M
a
s
s
.
t
o
H
a
y
w
a
r
d
A
v
e
.
l B HAZEL RD, Winter St.9-B RUSSELL RD, Whipple to Winchester Dr.
6-E
B
O
N
D
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
J
o
h
n
P
o
u
l
t
e
r
R
d
.
4-C HENDERSON RD, Blake to Burlington St.6-E RYDER LN, from Worthen Rd.
4-C
B
O
U
L
D
E
R
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
B
l
a
k
e
R
d
.
2-A HERITAGE DRIVE, Volunteer Way
9-D
B
O
W
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
t
o
R
a
w
s
o
n
A
v
e
.
10-D HIBBERT ST, Mass. Ave. to Arlington Line
9-D
B
O
W
K
E
R
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
t
o
T
a
f
t
A
v
e
.
3-D HICKORY ST, Garfield St. to Kimball Rd.6-B SADDLE CLUB RD, Grant St. to Grant St.
10-
E
B
O
W
M
A
N
S
T
,
a
t
A
r
l
i
n
g
t
o
n
T
o
w
n
L
i
n
e
6-D HIGHLAND AVE, from Winthrop Rd.8-C SANDERSON RD, Bryant Rd. to Lowell St.
6-B
B
O
W
S
E
R
R
D
,
T
o
d
d
R
d
.
t
o
S
a
d
d
l
e
C
l
u
b
R
d
.
4-D HILL ST, Bedford St. to Cedar St.4-D SARGENT ST, Hill St. to Tewksbury St.
1-B
B
O
X
W
O
O
D
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
S
u
l
l
i
v
a
n
S
t
.
t
o
E
n
d
9-D HILLCREST AVE, from Fottler Ave.7-G SCHOOLHOUSE LN, Concord Ave.
4-C
B
R
A
E
M
O
R
E
T
E
R
,
N
H
a
n
c
o
c
k
t
o
L
i
b
e
r
t
y
A
v
e
.
9-D HILLSIDE AVE, from Mass. Ave.4-E SCHOOL ST, Mass. Ave. to Marrett Rd.
9-D
B
R
A
N
D
O
N
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
F
o
t
t
l
e
r
A
v
e
.
4-C HILLSIDE TERR, N Hancock to Ledgelawn 8-B SCOTLAND RD, from Appletree Lane
5-B
B
R
E
N
T
R
D
,
H
a
t
h
a
w
a
y
R
d
.
6-E HILLTOP AVE, from Kendall Rd.8-G SCOTT RD, from Concord Ave.
6-F
B
R
I
D
G
E
S
T
,
W
a
l
t
h
a
m
S
t
.
t
o
M
a
r
r
e
t
t
&
S
p
r
i
n
g
9-D HOLLAND ST, from Taft Ave.5-B SEDGE RD, from Hathaway Rd.
9-E
B
R
I
G
G
S
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
C
r
e
s
c
e
n
t
R
d
.
7-D HOLLOW LN, from Mass. Ave.5-G SHADE ST, Spring St. to Weston St.
5-C
B
R
I
G
H
A
M
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
H
a
n
c
o
c
k
S
t
.
6-B HOLMES RD, Burroughs Rd. to Thoreau Rd.3-D SHAW PLACE, from Augustus Rd.
6-F
B
R
O
O
K
S
I
D
E
A
V
E
,
f
r
o
m
W
a
l
t
h
a
m
S
t
.
3-E HOLTON RD, Wood St. to Patterson Rd.9-C SHEILA RD, Lillian Rd. to Circle Rd.
6-C
B
R
O
O
K
W
O
O
D
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
S
a
d
d
l
e
C
l
u
b
R
d
.
4-E HOMESTEAD ST, Cedar St. to Asbury St.6-D SHERBURNE RD, Vine Brook to Dane Rd.
5-B
B
R
O
W
N
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
B
u
r
n
h
a
m
R
d
.
7-C HOWARD MUNROE PLACE, Woburn St.6-E SHERBURNE RD SO, Kendall to Dane Rd.
9-D
B
R
U
C
E
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
O
a
k
S
t
.
t
o
H
i
l
l
s
i
d
e
A
v
e
.
6-F HUDSON RD, Spring St. to Cutler Farm Rd.6-D SHERIDAN ST, Sherman St. to Grant St.
8-C
B
R
Y
A
N
T
R
D
,
L
o
w
e
l
l
t
o
E
m
e
r
s
o
n
G
a
r
d
e
n
s
R
d
.
6-D HUNT RD, Mass. Ave. to Slocum Rd.6-D SHERMAN ST, Grant St. to Fletcher Ave.
8-E
B
U
C
K
M
A
N
D
R
,
L
o
c
u
s
t
A
v
e
t
o
M
o
r
e
l
a
n
d
A
v
e
.
8-F HUTCHINSON RD, Concord Ave to Webster4-D SHIRLEY ST, Bedford St. to Sargent St.
4-B
B
U
R
L
I
N
G
T
O
N
S
T
,
H
a
n
c
o
c
k
S
t
.
t
o
N
o
r
t
h
S
t
.
3-C SIMONDS RD, Bedford St. to Burlington St.
5-B
B
U
R
N
H
A
M
R
D
,
E
a
s
t
S
t
.
t
o
E
m
e
r
s
o
n
R
d
.
2-B SKYVIEW RD, Winter St. to Rangeway
6-F
B
U
R
N
S
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
M
a
r
l
b
o
r
o
R
d
.
5-F IDYLWILDE RD, from Middle St.6-D SLOCUM RD, Mass. Ave. to Highland Ave.
6-B
B
U
R
R
O
U
G
H
S
R
D
,
E
a
s
t
S
t
.
t
o
T
h
o
r
e
a
u
R
d
.
8-D INDEPENDENCE AVE, Mass. to Locust Ave.8-D SMITH AVE, Independence to Follen Rd.
6-E
B
U
S
H
N
E
L
L
D
R
I
V
E
,
f
r
o
m
W
o
r
t
h
e
n
R
d
.
7-D INGLESIDE RD, from Maple St.3-E SMITH FARM LN, from Wood St.
9-E
B
U
T
L
E
R
A
V
E
,
C
a
r
v
i
l
l
e
A
v
e
.
t
o
B
a
k
e
r
A
v
e
.
2-C IVAN ST, Bernard St. to beyond Eldred St.7-B SOLLY'S WAY, from Laconia St.
7-C
B
U
T
T
E
R
F
I
E
L
D
R
D
,
S
o
l
o
m
o
n
P
i
e
r
c
e
R
d
.
.
7-C SOLOMON PIERCE RD, from Maple St. to
8-D
B
Y
R
O
N
A
V
E
,
f
r
o
m
L
o
c
k
w
o
o
d
R
d
.
Woburn St.5-D JACKSON COURT, from Parker St.5-C SOMERSET RD, Hayes Ave. to Meriam St.2-B JAMES ST, Rangeway to beyond Wright St.9-D SO. RINDGE AVE, Bow St. to Rindge Ave.
2-C
C
A
L
V
I
N
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
I
v
a
n
S
t
.
t
o
J
u
s
t
i
n
S
t
.
4-E JEAN RD, Mass. Ave. to Morgan Rd.8-D SPENCER ST, from Joseph Rd.
9-D
C
A
M
D
E
N
S
T
,
C
h
a
r
l
e
s
S
t
.
t
o
S
u
t
h
e
r
l
a
n
d
R
d
.
3-A JEFFREY TERR, from Demar Rd.6-F SPRING ST, Marrett Rd. to Waltham Line
CAM
E
L
L
I
A
P
L
.
f
r
o
m
B
e
d
f
o
r
d
S
t
.
1-B JOHN BENSON RD, Carriage to Skyview Rd.3-E SPRINGDALE RD, from Bates Rd.
4-D
C
A
N
D
L
E
W
I
C
K
C
L
O
S
E
,
f
r
o
m
R
e
e
d
S
t
.
7-C JOHN HOSMER LN, Butterfield Rd. to End 9-G STAGE COACH RD, from Walnut St. to
5-A
C
A
R
L
R
D
,
N
o
r
t
h
S
t
.
t
o
b
e
y
o
n
d
M
y
r
n
a
R
d
.
6-E JOHN POULTER RD, from Winthrop Rd.Cart Path Lane
4-D
C
A
R
L
E
Y
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
R
e
e
d
S
t
.
8-E JOHN WILSON LN, from Fern St.8-F STEARNS RD, Pleasant St. to Webster Rd.
4-E
C
A
R
M
E
L
C
I
R
,
f
r
o
m
N
i
c
k
e
r
s
o
n
R
d
.
4-B JOHNSON FARM RD, from Flintlock Rd.5-D STETSON ST, Meriam St. to Oakland St.
8-D
C
A
R
N
E
G
I
E
P
L
A
C
E
,
M
a
p
l
e
t
o
I
n
g
l
e
s
i
d
e
R
d
.
6-B JONAS STONE CIR, from East Emerson Rd.9-D STEVENS RD, Taft Ave. to Charles St.
4-D
C
A
R
O
L
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
B
e
d
f
o
r
d
S
t
.
8-D JOSEPH RD, Mass. Ave. to Spencer St.4-E STIMSON AVE, School St. to Estabrook Rd.
l -A
C
A
R
R
I
A
G
E
D
R
I
V
E
,
f
r
o
m
G
r
o
v
e
S
t
.
7-C JOSEPH COMEE RD, from Solomon Pierce 7-G STONEWALL RD, from Barberry Rd.
9-G
C
A
R
T
P
A
T
H
L
A
N
E
,
f
r
o
m
W
a
l
n
u
t
S
t
.
5-C JUNIPER PLACE, from Meriam St.l B SULLIVAN ST, from Winter St.
9-E
C
A
R
V
I
L
L
E
A
V
E
,
O
a
k
S
t
.
t
o
B
u
t
l
e
r
A
v
e
.
G-5 JOURNEY'S END LANE 9-C SUMMER ST, Lowell St. to Arlington Line
5-G
C
A
R
Y
A
V
E
,
M
a
r
r
e
t
t
&
M
i
d
d
l
e
t
o
S
h
a
d
e
S
t
.
2-B JUSTIN ST, from Bernard St. to Eldred St.8-E SUMMIT RD, from Follen Rd.
5-C
C
A
S
T
L
E
R
D
,
H
a
y
e
s
A
v
e
.
t
o
F
r
a
n
k
l
i
n
R
d
.
4-C SUNNY KNOLL AVE, Bedford to Reed St.
4-E
C
E
D
A
R
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
M
a
s
s
A
v
e
.
t
o
F
r
e
e
m
o
n
t
S
t
.
6-E 4-C SUNNY KNOLL TERR, Sunny Knoll Ave.
8-E
C
E
D
A
R
W
O
O
D
T
E
R
R
,
f
r
o
m
B
u
c
k
m
a
n
D
r
.
4-D KENDALL RD, Waltham St. to Sherburne Rd.8-E SUNSET RIDGE, from Buckman Dr.
3-D
C
E
N
T
R
E
S
T
,
W
a
r
d
S
t
t
o
A
v
o
n
S
t
.
9-D SUTHERLAND RD, Cherry St. to Aerial St.
9-F
C
H
A
D
B
O
U
R
N
E
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
C
o
n
c
o
r
d
A
v
e
.
8-E KIMBALL RD, Reed St. to Hickory St.5-B SUZANNE RD, Mill Brook Rd. to Brent Rd.
5-D
C
H
A
N
D
L
E
R
S
T
,
M
e
r
i
a
m
S
t
.
t
o
O
a
k
l
a
n
d
S
t
.
8-G KING ST, from Fern St.8-E SWAN LN, Moreland Ave. to Bird Hill Rd.
9-D
C
H
A
R
L
E
S
S
T
,
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
t
o
T
a
f
t
A
v
e
.
KITSON PARK DRIVE, from Concord Ave.10-D SYLVIA ST, Mass Ave to Arlington Line
9-D
C
H
A
S
E
A
V
E
,
f
r
o
m
T
a
f
t
A
v
e
.
3-E
C
H
E
S
T
N
U
T
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
W
o
o
d
S
t
.
9-D
C
H
E
R
R
Y
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
T
a
f
t
A
v
e
t
o
C
h
a
r
l
e
s
S
t
.
7-B LACONIA ST, Lowell St. to Lowell St.9-D TAFT AVE, Mass. Ave. to Ellis St.
4-D
C
H
I
L
D
S
R
D
,
C
e
d
a
r
S
t
.
t
o
b
e
y
o
n
d
D
i
a
n
a
L
n
.
4-E LAKE ST, Mass.Ave. to Columbus St.9-E TARBELL AVE, Taft Ave. to Bennett Ave.
7-E
C
H
U
R
C
H
I
L
L
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
L
o
c
u
s
t
A
v
e
.
8-E LANTERN LN, Dawes Rd. to Philip Rd.
C-3
C
I
D
E
R
M
I
L
L
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
B
e
d
f
o
r
d
S
t
.
4-C LARCHMONT LN, Bedford St. to Revere St.7-D TAVERN LN, Percy Rd. to Eliot Rd.
9-D
C
I
R
C
L
E
R
D
,
H
i
l
c
r
e
s
t
A
v
e
.
t
o
S
h
e
i
l
a
R
d
.
3-C LAUREL ST, Reed St. to Essex St.4-C TAYLOR LN, from Revere St.
5-D
C
L
A
R
K
E
S
T
,
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
t
o
P
a
r
k
D
r
.
8-F LAWN AVE, Webster Rd.5-D TEWKSBURY ST, Bedford St. to Sargent St.
9-D
C
L
E
L
L
A
N
D
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
L
i
s
b
e
t
h
S
t
.
9-F LAWRENCE LN, Pleasant St.9-D THERESA AVE, Bow St. to Fottler Ave.
7-F
C
L
E
M
A
T
I
S
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
A
l
l
e
n
S
t
.
4-C LEDGELAWN AVE, Bedford to Revere St.7-B THIRD ST, from Young St.
9-D
C
L
I
F
F
E
A
V
E
,
B
o
w
S
t
.
t
o
R
a
w
s
o
n
A
v
e
.
9-D LEE AVE, from Oxford St.5-B THOREAU RD, Emerson Rd. to Lowell St.
7-D
C
L
Y
D
E
P
L
A
C
E
,
f
r
o
m
I
n
g
l
e
s
i
d
e
R
d
.
4-D LEELAND TERR, from Wingate Rd.3-B TIDD CIRCLE, from Grove St.
l -A
C
O
A
C
H
R
D
,
C
a
r
r
i
a
g
e
D
r
.
t
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V
o
l
u
n
t
e
e
r
W
a
y
9-D LEIGHTON AVE, Bow St. to Cliffe Ave.6-C TODD RD, Grant St. to Saddle Club Rd.
5-C
C
O
L
O
N
Y
R
D
,
W
o
o
d
l
a
n
d
Rd. to Grant St. 7-B LEONARD RD, from Woburn St. 8-D TOWER RD, Mass Ave. to Independence Ave.
4-E
C
O
L
U
M
B
U
S
S
T
,
C
e
d
a
r
S
t
.
b
e
y
o
n
d
L
a
k
e
S
t
.
4-F LEROY RD, from Marrett Rd.7-E TRICORNE RD, from Marrett Rd.
9-E
C
O
M
P
T
O
N
C
I
R
,
f
r
o
m
P
e
a
c
o
c
k
F
a
r
m
R
d
.
8-E LEXINGTON AVE, Locust Ave. to Follen Rd.8-F TRODDEN PATH, from Lawn Ave.
9-F
C
O
N
C
O
R
D
A
V
E
,
B
e
l
m
o
n
t
L
i
n
e
t
o
S
p
r
i
n
g
S
t
.
4-C LIBERTY AVE, Ledgelawn to Revere St.9-E TROTTING HORSE DR, Peacock Farm Rd.
3-E
C
O
N
E
S
T
O
G
A
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
W
o
o
d
S
.
9-C LILLIAN RD, Lowell St. to beyond Sheila Rd.9-E TUCKER AVE, Carville Ave. to Tarbell Ave.
4-E
C
O
N
S
T
I
T
U
T
I
O
N
R
D
,
P
a
u
l
R
e
v
e
r
e
t
o
O
x
b
o
w
5-F LINCOLN ST, Worthen Rd. to Lincoln Line.5-F TUFTS RD, Fairbanks Rd. to Marrett Rd.
5-F
C
O
P
P
E
R
S
M
Y
T
H
W
A
Y
,
M
a
r
r
e
t
t
R
d
.
t
o
E
n
d
5-E LINCOLN TERR, from Lincoln St.4-D TURNBURRY HILL RD, from Hill St.
7-B
C
O
O
K
E
R
D
,
F
u
l
t
o
n
R
d
.
t
o
D
o
u
g
l
a
s
R
d
.
4-C LINMOOR TERR, from No. Hancock St.3-A TURNING MILL RD, Robinson to Gould Rd.
5-C
C
O
O
L
I
D
G
E
A
V
E
,
A
d
a
m
s
S
t
.
t
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H
a
n
c
o
c
k
S
t
.
9-D LISBETH ST, Mass. Ave. to Clelland Rd.8-B TYLER RD, from Winchester Dr.
6-C
C
O
T
T
A
G
E
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
5
3
W
o
b
u
r
n
S
t
.
9-C LITCHFIELD RD, from Lowell St.
4-C
C
R
A
W
F
O
R
D
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
P
r
e
s
t
o
n
R
d
.
8-B LOCKE LN, Fairlawn to beyond Whipple Rd.
9-E
C
R
E
S
C
E
N
T
R
D
,
W
a
t
e
r
t
o
w
n
S
t
.
t
o
G
r
e
e
n
L
n
.
8-D LOCKWOOD RD, Rhodes St. to Byron Ave.6-G UNDERWOOD AVE, from Spring St.
9-C
C
R
E
S
C
E
N
T
H
I
L
L
A
V
E
,
H
a
s
k
e
l
l
S
t
.
t
o
A
r
l
i
n
g
t
o
n
8-E LOCUST AVE, Mass. Ave. to Buckman Dr.5-C UPLAND RD, Chandler St. to Glen Rd.
8-F
C
R
E
S
T
C
I
R
,
f
r
o
m
B
l
o
s
s
o
m
c
r
e
s
t
R
d
.
5-D LOIS LN, from Bedford St.7-C UTICA ST, from Woburn St.
4-E
C
R
O
S
B
Y
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
4-B LONGFELLOW RD, from Burlington St.
9-D
C
U
M
M
I
N
G
S
A
V
E
,
B
o
w
S
t
.
t
o
C
l
i
f
f
e
A
v
e
.
5-E LORING RD, from Baskin Rd.
7-C
C
U
R
R
I
E
R
C
O
U
R
T
,
f
r
o
m
W
e
b
b
S
t
.
7-C LOTHROP CIR, from Joseph Comee Rd.4-D VAILLE AVE, Bedford St. to Augustus Rd.
8-D
C
U
R
V
E
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
7-B LOWELL ST, Arlington to Burlington Line.3-C VALLEY RD, from Bedford St.
1-B
C
U
S
H
I
N
G
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
S
u
l
l
i
v
a
n
S
t
.
9-E LUONGO FARM LN, from Pleasant St.6-F VALLEYFIELD ST, from Bridge St.
6-F
C
U
T
L
E
R
F
A
R
M
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
H
u
d
s
o
n
R
d
.
4-C VICTORY GARDEN WAY, from Hancock St.6-E VILES RD, from John Poulter Rd.2-B MAGNOLIA LN, Sullivan St. to End8-C VILLAGE CIRCLE, from Bryant Rd.
6-E
D
A
N
E
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
S
h
e
r
b
u
r
n
e
R
d
.
2-D MAGUIRE RD, Hartwell to Westview St.6-C VINE ST, Woburn St. to #ll0 Woburn St.
l0-D
D
A
N
I
E
L
S
S
T
,
T
a
f
t
A
v
e
.
t
o
A
r
l
i
n
g
t
o
n
L
i
n
e
7-E MAIN CAMPUS DRIVE6-D VINE BROOK RD, Waltham to Winthrop Rd.
8-E
D
A
V
I
S
R
D
,
M
o
r
e
l
a
n
d
A
v
e
.
t
o
B
i
r
d
H
i
l
l
R
d
.
6-C MALT LN, from Marrett Rd.2-A VOLUNTEER WAY, from Grove St.
8-E
D
A
W
E
S
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
F
o
l
l
e
n
R
d
.
4-D MANLEY COURT, Woburn St. to Vine St.
3-C
D
E
E
R
D
,
H
a
r
d
i
n
g
R
d
.
t
o
G
l
e
a
s
o
n
R
d
.
8-C MANNING ST, Bedford St. to Milk St.
4-F
D
E
E
R
I
N
G
A
V
E
,
E
a
s
t
e
r
n
A
v
e
.
t
o
R
o
l
l
i
n
g
L
n
6-F MAPLE ST, Mass. Ave. to Lowell St.6-F WACHUSETT CIR, from Prospect Hill Rd
3-A
D
E
M
A
R
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
T
u
r
n
i
n
g
M
i
l
l
R
d
.
7-E MARLBORO RD, Hudson to Woodcliffe Rd.6-E WACHUSETT DRIVE, from Outlook Dr. to
4-E
D
E
N
V
E
R
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
C
e
d
a
r
S
t
.
3-F MARRETT RD, from Mass. Ave.beyond Fair Oaks Dr.
5-D
D
E
P
O
T
P
L
A
C
E
,
M
e
r
i
a
m
S
t
.
t
o
D
e
p
o
t
S
q
.
7-B MARRETT ST, Marrett Rd. to Lincoln Line 6-D WALLIS COURT, from Mass. Ave.
5-D
D
E
P
O
T
S
Q
U
A
R
E
,
M
a
s
s
.
A
v
e
.
t
o
M
e
r
i
a
m
S
t
.
3-E MARSHALL RD, from Woburn St.9-G WALNUT ST, Concord Ave. to Waltham Line
2-A
D
E
W
E
Y
R
D
,
G
r
o
v
e
S
t
.
t
o
b
e
y
o
n
d
G
o
u
l
d
R
d
.
1-B MARTIGALE RD. from Cedar St. to Freemont St.6-E WALTHAM ST, Mass. Ave. to Waltham L ine
3-C
D
E
X
T
E
R
R
D
,
F
u
l
l
e
r
R
d
.
t
o
W
i
l
l
i
a
m
s
R
d
.
9-E MARVIN ST. from Winter St.3-D WARD ST, Garfield St. to Centre St.
4-B
D
I
A
M
O
N
D
R
D
,
G
r
o
v
e
S
t
.
t
o
N
E
m
e
r
s
o
n
R
d
.
5-D MASON ST, Pleasant St. to Peacock Farm Rd.7-D WASHINGTON ST, Warren to Highland Ave.
4-D
D
I
A
N
A
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
H
i
l
l
S
t
.
t
o
C
h
i
l
d
s
R
d
.
3-F MASSACHUSETTS AVE, Arlington Line to 9-E WATERTOWN ST, Pleasant to Belmont Line
5-C
D
I
E
H
L
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
C
o
o
l
i
d
g
e
A
v
e
.
Marrett Road (Rte 2A)8-E WATSON RD, Robbins Rd. to Lexington Ave.
2-B
D
O
N
A
L
D
S
T
,
f
r
o
m
I
v
a
n
S
t
.
t
o
J
u
s
t
i
n
S
t
.
6-B MASSACHUSETTS AVE, Marrett Rd. to7-C WEBB ST, from Woburn St.
7-A
D
O
U
G
L
A
S
R
D
,
E
a
s
t
S
t
.
t
o
b
e
y
o
n
d
F
u
l
t
o
n
R
d
.
2-A Lincoln Line8-F WEBSTER RD, Stearns Rd. to Stearns Rd.
9-F
D
O
V
E
R
L
N
,
f
r
o
m
P
l
e
a
s
a
n
t
S
t
.
3-B MAUREEN RD, East St. to E. Emerson Rd.4-E WELCH RD, Grandview to Estabrook Rd.
6-F
D
O
W
N
I
N
G
R
D
,
M
a
r
r
e
t
t
R
d
.
t
o
O
u
t
l
o
o
k
D
r
.
8-F McKEEVER DRIVE, Grove St.8-F WELLINGTON LN AVE, MeadowBrook Ave.
9-D
D
R
E
W
A
V
E
,
f
r
o
m
B
o
w
S
t
.
t
o
C
l
i
f
f
e
A
v
e
.
9-D MEAD CIR, North Emerson Rd.9-C WESTMINSTER AVE, from Lowell St. to
8-F
D
U
D
L
E
Y
R
D
,
f
r
o
m
P
h
i
l
i
p
R
d
.
t
o
G
o
f
f
e
R
d
.
5-C MEADOW BROOK AVE, from BlossomcrestArlington Line
7-C
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9-F MELROSE AVE, Bow St. to Cliffe Ave.5-G WESTON ST, from Lincoln St.MERIAM ST, Mass. Ave. to Adams St.2-C WESTVIEW ST, Hartwell to Bedford Line 5-F METROPOLITAN PARKWAY NORTH from5-B WESTWOOD RD, Adams to Mill Brook Rd.
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5-F Concord Ave. to Town Line8-B WHEELER RD, Whipple Rd. to Fairlawn Ln.
5-B
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5-D MIDDLE ST, Marrett Rd. to Lincoln St.9-B WHIPPLE RD, from Lowell St.
6-B
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4-D MIDDLEBY RD, Lincoln St. to Outlook Dr.9-E WHITE PINE LN, from Mason St.
4-E
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5-B MILITIA DRIVE, from Worthen Rd.3-B WHITE TERRACE, from Diamond Rd.
3-C
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6-D MILK ST, from Hill St. to Carley Rd.6-A WHITMAN CIR, from Thoreau Rd.
5-C
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4-E MILL BROOK RD, Adams St. to Suzanne Rd.4-A WHITTIER RD, Graham to Longfellow Rd.
6-D
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9-D MINOLA RD, Bloomfield to Highland Ave.3-E WILDWOOD RD, Wood St. to Patterson Rd.
2-B
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8-E MINUTE MAN LN, Mass to Battle Green Rd.3-C WILLIAMS RD, Wyman Rd. to Harding Rd.
4-F
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8-E MOHAWK DRIVE, from Oak St.4-F WILSON RD, Marrett Rd. to Roosevelt Rd.
7-D
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5-E MOON HILL RD, from Moreland Ave.8-B WINCHESTER DR, Lowell St. to Winchester
8-D
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1-B MORELAND AVE, Fern St. to Davis Rd.4-D WINGATE RD, from Diana Ln.
9-D
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3-A MORGAN RD, Jean Rd. to Nickerson Rd.9-C WINN AVE, Rindge Ave. to Albemarle Ave.
4-F
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4-H MORRIS ST, from Winter St.9-D WINSHIP RD, from Hillcrest Ave.
4-E
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6-F MOUNTAIN RD, from Turning Mill Rd.6-F WINSTON RD, Hudson Rd. to Grassland St.
8-C
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5-D MT. TABOR RD, Cambridge-Concord Hwy 2-B WINTER ST, Bedford St. to Skyview Rd.
5-B
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5-A MUNROE RD, Hudson Rd. to Woodcliffe Rd.6-D WINTHROP RD, Mass. Ave. to Waltham St.
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3-D MUZZEY ST, from Mass. Ave. to Park Dr.5-C WISTERIA LN, from Colony Rd. to End
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5-G
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6-F NORMANDY RD, Hudson to Woodcliffe Rd.8-F WORTHEN RD EAST, Pleasant to Goffe Rd.
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5-A NORTH ST, Burlington St. to Burlington Line2-B WRIGHT ST, Skyview Rd. to James St.
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Development (subdivisions, special permits):
Conventional Subdivision
• Rangeway Extension – Definitive subdivision plan creates a single lot and a
turnaround at the end of Rangeway.
Balanced Housing Development
• 376 Lincoln Street/73 Middle Street - Definitive plan approved to demolish
the structure on 73 Middle Street, the relocation of the structure at 376 Lincoln
Street and its conversion into two units, and the construction of six new
homes for an overall development of eight units all served by a proposed
right of way off Middle Street.
2014
Zoning Changes
• Medical Marijuana Treatment Center - lifted the moratorium on medical
marijuana treatment centers, also known as Registered Marijuana
Dispensaries (RMDs), and restricted them to the CM district.
• Site Plan Review - allowed development in the commercial districts to utilize
site plan review without having to get a special permit as well.
• Schools - Permitted small for-profit schools in the CN and RT districts.
• Technical corrections -Non-substantive changes to the Zoning Bylaw to help
clarify the bylaws such as changing the names of the types of accessory
apartments.
• 430 Concord Avenue - created a CD district to allow a 72-unit assisted living
facility for persons with Alzheimer's disease and other related dementia and
memory loss disorders.
Development (subdivisions, special permits):
Conventional Subdivision
• 2 Edna Street Extension – Definitive subdivision plan to extend Edna Street to
serve one additional lot.
Site Sensitive Development
• 28 -34 Robinson Road –Definitive plan approved to demolish the existing
single-family structure and construct three new houses accessed by
individual driveways.
• 137-139 Shade Street - Definitive plan approved to preserve the two existing
dwellings and create two new structures. Construction of a common
driveway will provide access off Shade Street.
Balanced Housing Development
3-29 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
• 4-6 Robinson Road – Definitive plan approved to replace both structures on
site with 12 units in six structures.
• 495 Lowell Street- Definitive plan approved the demolition of the existing
single-family structure and the construction of four new homes served by two
common driveways.
Private Property and Vacant Land
There are some parcels deemed to be significant in terms of location or size, some of
which are vacant and others underutilized, that are susceptible to new or more
intense development. The Town has already begun to:
• Identify those privately owned parcels that remain vacant or underdeveloped
• Evaluate their potential for development and the likely impact of that
development on public services and facilities
• Identify desirable future uses of the land in light of the Town’s
Comprehensive Plan (i.e. Land Use, Housing, Economic Development, Open
Space and Recreation)
• Identify the actions (i.e. changes to zoning regulations and appropriations
needed to implement the policies contained in the Comprehensive Plan)
3-30 Chapter 3 - Community Setting September 2015
4
Environmental Inventory
and Analysis
Geology, Soils and Topography
Geology1
Lexington‘s surficial geology is dominated by very old gravel and sand deposits and
glacial till laid down above bedrock during the last ice age. When the Pleistocene
Glacier moved down from the north, rocks and soil were scoured from the earth’s
surface and mixed together as they were carried forward by the flow of ice. When the
glacier retreated, this transported rock and soil was left behind in various types of
deposits, such as moraines, eskers, kames, and glacial erratics.
Ground moraines are deposits of unsorted rock and soil that accumulate beneath a
glacier or are deposited as the glacier retreats. Ground moraines form many of the
low, rolling hills that are characteristic of Lexington. Eskers are narrow ridges of well-
sorted sand and gravel that are most often deposited by flowing water within and
below glaciers. Examples of eskers in Lexington can be found in the Great Meadow
off Maple Street, behind Hancock Street, and beneath Ridge Road (the roadway is an
esker top). Kames are irregular short mounds, hills, or ridges of poorly sorted sand
and gravel deposited by melt water most often flowing or settling on top of glacial ice.
A classic example of a kame is located behind the Adams School. In the past, much of
this material was commercially removed, such as along the Lower Vine Brook and
Hartwell Avenue. Glacial erratics are large boulders, typically of a different bedrock
1 The following section was drafted upon, The Last Billion Year of the Geological History of the Town of Lexington by Robert Shrock, 1984, Citizens for Lexington Conservation publication # P-9, and Lexington and the Ice Age: A Field Guide by Arthur J Latham and Winston Yelland, date and publisher unknown (located in the Lexington Conservation division office).
4-1 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
type than the surrounding bedrock, which glaciers pick up and then drop elsewhere.
Glacial erratics are common in Lexington; one example can be found at the corner of
Wood Street and Hartwell Avenue.
In addition to depositing moraines, eskers, kames, and erratics throughout Lexington,
glacial action also rounded the hilltops that are numerous in town (see Topography in
this section for more information on Lexington’s hills). One of the most unusual of
these hilltops is that of Granny Hill (also called Merriam Hill), which has a pond on
top of it that is thought to be a glacial feature.
Most of Lexington’s bedrock is buried by glacial deposits, but there are a number of
bedrock outcrops and exposures scattered throughout town. The town’s bedrock is
dominated by igneous rock—pink granite and darker plutonic and volcanic rock—as
well as metamorphic gneisses, schists, and greenstones.
Soils
Twenty-nine different kinds of soil in Lexington occupy the landscape in five
naturally recurring groups called soil associations, as shown on Map 4 Soils and
Geologic Features. Depths of soil in town range from two to twenty feet and above.
The soil associations are delineated as general soil areas by the U.S. Department of
Agriculture's Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) as the following:
Hollis-Essex-Paxton-Scituate Association
This association contains shallow to bedrock soils and deep, very stony, well-drained
to moderately well-drained soils with hardpans within two feet of the surface. It
occupies about 50 percent of the Town. Topography of the area consists of prominent
hills, low ridges, and narrow swampy intervals.
Hinckley-Windsor-Au Gres Association
These are droughty and poorly drained, sandy and gravely soils. This association
occupies about 18 percent of the Town. Its topography consists of nearly level to
undulating plains with a few low hills. Mining of this association has been extensive
in Lexington’s history, with high water tables being the main limiting factor.
Charlton-Hollis-Gloucester Association
These are deep, very stony, well-drained soils with hardpans at depths of three to five
feet and shallow to bedrock soils. About 14 percent of the Town is occupied by this
4-2 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
association, mostly in the northern section of Town, which is characterized by low
hills and narrow intervals.
Muck-Freshwater Marsh Association
This association is made up of very poorly drained materials and occupies about 12
percent of the Town.
Deerfield-Muck-Au Gres-Hinkley Association
This association consists of droughty to poorly drained sandy and gravely soils and
very poorly drained organic soils. It occupies about six percent of the Town, with
nearly level soil area, a few low knolls and ridges with occasional depressions filled
with organic matter.
Topography
The topography of Lexington bears distinct marks of the glacial period and is
characterized by rounded rock hills with an average elevation of 350 feet and flat-
bottomed valley segments, as illustrated in Map 5 Topography. The highest point in
Lexington is Whipple Hill, in the northeast corner of town, which stands at 374 feet
above sea level. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the lowest valley in Lexington
(Tophet Swamp) is now filled with glacial deposits and is approximately 100 to 125
feet above mean sea level.
Besides Whipple Hill, other prominent hills in town include Brick Hill, Moon Hill,
Follen Hill, Munroe Hill, Robinson Hill, Loring Hill, and Cranberry Hill.
●●●
Clearly a result of
glacial action, the
topography of
Lexington today is
one of mild reliefs and
moderate valleys.
●●●
Tophet Swamp is the lowest
point in Lexington.
4-3 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
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Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 201
Map 4
Soils and Geologic Features
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
°0 0.5 10.25
Miles
Legend
Interstate
U.S. Highway
State Route
NRCS Soils
Water Bodies
Sand and gravel deposits
Till or bedrock
Fine-grained deposits
Floodplain alluvium
Code Soil Type
103D CHARLTON-HOLLIS-ROCK OUTCROP COMPLEX, 15 TO 25 PERCENT SLOPES
104D HOLLIS-ROCK OUTCROP-CHARLTON COMPLEX, 15 TO 35 PERCENT SLOPES
223B SCIO SILT LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
251B HAVEN VERY FINE SANDY LOAM,3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
253B HINCKLEY LOAMY SAND, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
253C HINCKLEY LOAMY SAND, 8 TO 15 PERCENT SLOPES
253D HINCKLEY LOAMY SAND, 15 TO 25 PERCENT SLOPES
254C MERRIMAC FINE SANDY LOAM, 8 TO 15 PERCENT SLOPES
255A WINDSOR LOAMY FINE SAND, 0 TO 3 PERCENT SLOPES
255B WINDSOR LOAMY FINE SAND, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
255C WINDSOR LOAMY FINE SAND, 8 TO 15 PERCENT SLOPES
256A DEERFIELD LOAMY SAND, 0 TO 3 PERCENT SLOPES
256B DEERFIELD LOAMY SAND, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
260B SUDBURY FINE SANDY LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
261A TISBURY VERY FINE SANDY LOAM, 0 TO 3 PERCENT SLOPES
262B QUONSET LOAMY SAND, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
300C MONTAUK FINE SANDY LOAM, 8 TO 15 PERCENT SLOPES
302C MONTAUK FINE SANDY LOAM, 8 TO 15 PERCENT SLOPES, EXTREMELY STONY
305B PAXTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
305D PAXTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 15 TO 25 PERCENT SLOPES
307B PAXTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES, EXTREMELY STONY
315B SCITUATE FINE SANDY LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
317B SCITUATE FINE SANDY LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES, EXTREMELY STONY
405B CHARLTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
407B CHARLTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES, EXTREMELY STONY
420C CANTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 8 TO 15 PERCENT SLOPES
420D CANTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 15 TO 25 PERCENT SLOPES
422D CANTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 15 TO 25 PERCENT SLOPES, EXTREMELY STONY
424B CANTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 3 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES, EXTREMELY BOULDERY
424D CANTON FINE SANDY LOAM, 15 TO 25 PERCENT SLOPES, EXTREMELY BOULDERY
52A FREETOWN MUCK, 0 TO 1 PERCENT SLOPES
622C PAXTON-URBAN LAND COMPLEX, 8 TO 15 PERCENT SLOPES
623C WOODBRIDGE-URBAN LAND COMPLEX, 3 TO 15 PERCENT SLOPES
626B MERRIMAC-URBAN LAND COMPLEX, 0 TO 8 PERCENT SLOPES
MERRIAM HILL 290FT
GRANNY HILL 360FT
MUNROE HILL 285FT
ROBINSON HILL 355FT
LORING HILL 355FT
BELFRY HILL 260FTFISKE HILL 300FT
WHIPPLE HILL 374FT
KATAHDIN HILL 306FT
FULLERS HILL 345FT
RESERVOIR HILL 226FT
CRANBERRY HILL 290FT
LEXINGTON
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Document Path: \\vhb\proj\Wat-LD\12893.00\GIS\Project\05 Topography_2014.mxd
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 201
Map 5
Topography
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
°0 0.5 10.25
Miles
Legend
3 Meter Contours
Water Bodies
Open Space and Recreation Areas
Many of Lexington’s valleys were also shaped by various types of glacial activity.
Some once held stagnant glacial melt waters and have slowly been filling in since the
glacier’s retreat, so that they are now swamps or marshlands. Examples of these
include Tophet Swamp and Arlington’s Great Meadow. Others, particularly those
sandwiched between the town’s rocky hills, were carved by rushing glacial melt
waters, and they now remain dry except for periods of excessive rainfalls. Many of the
flattest areas of town are underlain by sand plains that were deposited by glacial melt
water, and they have provided good building sites for the Town’s schools, such as
Lexington High school, Diamond Middle school, and Estabrook Elementary school.
Landscape Character
Introduction
The landscape of Lexington is one of immeasurable beauty, much of which has been
retained even as the town has become more densely populated over time. The natural
features and protected areas of Lexington’s landscape provide its residents with
scenic value, recreation opportunities, and valuable ecosystem services.
Major Characteristics or Unusual Geologic Features
Bloody Bluff Fault
The Bloody Bluff, located at the historic Fiske Hill site at the corner of Old
Massachusetts Avenue and Marrett Road, is a part of the Minuteman National
Historic Park. The Bloody Bluff reveals a section of granite bedrock exposed by the
Bloody Bluff fault, which runs through Lexington as it travels approximately 80 miles
from Newbury, MA to northern Connecticut.2 The Bloody Bluff fault was first
recognized in the early 1960’s by Norm Cupples. This discovery was seen by
geologists as an opportunity to examine the theory of plate tectonics, because the
Bloody Bluff area hypothesized to be an area of contact between two major
continental plates.
2 http://www.geologicresources.com/bloody_bluff_fault.html and Roadside Geology of Massachusetts by Skehan.
4-6 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Whipple Hill
At 374 feet, Whipple Hill is the highest point in Lexington. Its rounded summit rock
and high exposed cliffs that form a shallow ravine are unusual geologic features in
town. The top of Whipple Hill is home to plants not otherwise found widely in
Lexington, including bear berry and scrub oak. The property features three potential
vernal pools and one certified vernal pool. Nearby, a larger secluded woodland pond
attracts a variety of wildlife, including American eel, painted turtles, orioles,
migrating warblers, dragonflies, and muskrats. Rare wild flowers also grow on this
property (see Natural Heritage Program list) as well as two rare plants identified by
the New England Plant Conservation Program (see Unusual Vegetation, pg. 4-13).
Whipple Hill is owned by the Town as a conservation area.
Areas of Archaeological Interest
Poor Farm Conservation Area
In February of 1985, Boston University's Center for Archaeological Studies, along with
several Lexington High School classes, carried out an archaeological dig at a site on
the Poor Farm Conservation Area. They found several prehistoric artifacts, including
a projectile point of the Late Archaic/Early Woodland smallstem tradition (1,000 B.C.)
and a prehistoric stone tool. They also found many 18th and 19th century artifacts,
including porcelain earthenware, edge-decorated pearlware, oyster shells, a metal pin
button inscribed with "W. Kid McCoy", milk cans, indications of a small forge, mason
jars, stone ware, two plain clay pipes, bowl fragments, two creamware fragments, and
hand-wrought nails.
Water Resources
Watersheds
Lexington contains 21 sub-watersheds (also called drainage basins) that drain to three
major watersheds, the Shawsheen River Watershed, the Mystic River Watershed, and
the Charles River Watershed, which meet on Eliot Road near the new community
center (see Map 6 Water Resources). Major storage basins exist at Tophet Swamp for the
Shawsheen River Watershed, Dunback Meadow and the old Metropolitan State
Hospital area (and to a lesser degree, parts of Hayden Woods) for the Charles River
Watershed, and the Great Meadow and Munroe Meadows for the Mystic River
Watershed.
4-7 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
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Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 201
Map 6
Water Resources
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
°0 0.5 10.25
Miles
Legend
Interstate
U.S. Highway
State Route
Major Watersheds
Wetlands
Water Bodies
100 Year Flood Zone
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Document Path: \\vhb\proj\Wat-LD\12893.00\GIS\Output
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2014
Map 6a
Subwatersheds
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
°
Map 6A Subwatersheds depicts the Town’s sub-watersheds and was prepared by David
Pavlik of the Town’s Engineering Division in March 2008. Note that the Shawsheen
River Watershed is a drainage area without a major stream channel, which accounts
for the difference between the Town’s 20 brooks and 21 sub-watersheds. Lexington’s
sub-watersheds include:
• Draining to the Shawsheen River Watershed:
o Farley Brook
o Kiln Brook
o North Lexington Brook
o Simonds Brook
o Turning Mill Brook
o Vine Brook
o Willards Brook
o Shawsheen River Shed
• Draining to the Mystic River Watershed
o Fessenden Brook
o Mill Brook
o Munroe Brook
o Reeds Brook
o Sickle Brook
o Shaker Glen Brook
o Winning’s Farm Brook
o
• Draining to the Charles River Watershed
o Beaver Brook
o Chester Brook
o Clematis Brook
o Hardy’s Pond Brook
o Hobbs Brook
o Juniper Hill Brook
Surface Water
While Lexington does not have a major river running through its landscape, it does
have 20 brooks that play important roles in the infrastructure and character of the
town. All of Lexington’s brooks originate within the town's boundaries and flow
outward to other towns except for a small section of Reeds Brook, making Lexington a
headwaters community. Over time, these brooks have been altered by human activity
through changes such as channelization, the introduction of culverts, and
sedimentation build-up from road sand and other run-off. Furthermore, impervious
surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and buildings have caused more stormwater
4-10 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
runoff to enter the brooks than would naturally. These impacts have resulted in
flooding problems, degradation of water quality, and impacts to habitat in many
areas.
Lexington’s brooks flow directly into Arlington, Belmont, Waltham, Lincoln, Bedford,
Burlington, and Woburn before traveling onward to discharge in the Atlantic Ocean
near Boston and Newburyport. The Town’s brooks contribute to water supplies in
Burlington via the Vine Brook, Bedford via the Kiln Brook/Shawsheen River, and
Woburn via Woburn's Horn Pond from Shaker Glen Brook, as well as Cambridge via
Hobbs Brook and the Cambridge Reservoir. The other two reservoirs in town, the
Arlington Reservoir and the Lexington Old Reservoir (or Old Res), are now used for
swimming rather than water supply.
In 2007, the Louis Berger Group, Inc. completed a water quality study of the Old Res,
which has had problems with high coliform counts after rainstorms. A deepwater
well was added in 1982, which serves to maintain the water level but does not
guarantee improved water quality. The results of the study show that the major
source for bacteria entering the water body is stormwater discharged by the four
outfalls along Marrett Road. In addition to providing a popular swimming area in
Lexington, the water from the Old Res eventually flows to the Vine Brook and on to
the Shawsheen River watershed, so improving water quality is also important to
communities downstream. In 2009, Town Meeting appropriated Community
Preservation Act (CPA) funding to complete a stormwater management mitigation
project at the Old Reservoir which was completed and implemented in 2013.
Other issues with brook health and function in Lexington are being addressed
through a Watershed Stewardship Program that started in the fall of 2008. The
program, initially coordinated by the Conservation Division, the Engineering
Division, and citizen volunteers, including the Lexington Conservation Stewards and
students from the Minuteman Career and Technical High School, conducted stream
shoreline surveys to identify problems caused by stormwater run-off and impaired
outfalls. The data collected in those surveys was processed into map format and used
as a planning tool for remediation of identified stream problems. The program is now
coordinated solely by the Engineering Division and engages students from the
University of Massachusetts Lowell through an internship program.
Functions of Lexington's Brooks
Lexington's network of small brooks and the wetlands surrounding them serve as the
backbone for the Town's hydrology. and provide the following functions:
4-11 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Hydrologic
• Brooks provide avenues for stormwater to travel in, acting as efficient
conduits for moving water and help to reduce flooding.
• Brooks help maintain a stable groundwater "budget" by transferring excess
water during seasonally high groundwater periods, thereby reducing
flooding
• Brooks act to recharge groundwater supplies through infiltration
• Brooks assist in the maintaining of static water levels in ponds and reservoirs
Ecologic
• Brooks assist in filtering out pollutants and sediment, especially by
discharging water into surrounding wetlands with filtration capacities
• Brooks provide prime wildlife habitat, including habitat for several
threatened and endangered species
• Brooks create ecological diversity by helping to maintain the hydric (wet) soil
conditions that support important wetland plant communities
• Brooks provide aesthetic enjoyment for citizens and passive recreation for
hikers, fishermen and women, bird watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts
Value of Brook Corridors to Wildlife
Brook corridors traverse a large number of Lexington’s conservation areas. Prolific
wetland systems surrounded by relatively large tracts of undisturbed land, as well as
vegetated areas running along brook channels, provide essential components of
wildlife habitat, including: food, cover, water, and nesting and breeding space. Some
of the most important brook corridors that currently exist in Lexington include areas
along Vine Brook, Simond’s Brook, Munroe Brook, Beaver Brook, and Kiln Brook.
Degradation to these natural brook corridors impacts species that travel in them, such
as white-tailed deer, coyote, and fisher. For a further discussion of wildlife corridors
in Lexington, see Section 4.5, Fisheries and Wildlife.
Certified Vernal Pools
Vernal pools are ephemeral bodies of water that do not support predatory fish and
provide essential spring breeding habitat for various amphibian species, including
wood frogs and blue-spotted salamanders. Vernal pools are protected by the
Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, but must be certified as vernal pools before
falling under this protection. Twenty certified vernal pools are located within the
Town of Lexington (see Map 7 Natural Habitats).
4-12 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
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Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 201
Map 7
Natural Habitats
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
°0 0.5 10.25
Miles
Legend
Interstate
U.S. Highway
State Route
Wetlands
Water Bodies
Major Streams
Open Space and Recreation Areas
Habitats
!(Potential Vernal Pool
BioMap2 Core Habitat
BioMap2 Critical Natural Landscape
Habitat Corridors,
,
Local Corridor
Regional Corridor
!H Certified Vernal Pool
£[3
Flood Hazard Areas
The boundaries of the one hundred year floodplain are shown on Map 6 Water
Resources. Floodplain areas in Lexington provide important temporary flood storage
capacity when adjacent surface water bodies overflow. These areas frequently contain
valuable wildlife habitat including a number of Lexington’s certified vernal pools.
Wetlands
The Commonwealth's Office of Geographic and Environmental Information
(MassGIS) has mapped approximately 519 acres of open marshes/bogs and 750 acres
of wooded marshes in Lexington, and more freshwater wetland exist that have not yet
been mapped. These freshwater wetlands provide habitat, recharge groundwater,
purify water, and store surface runoff, slowing the progress of flood waters. Many of
the freshwater marshes in Lexington fall within open space areas, including Tophet
Swamp, the Great Meadow, Willard’s Woods, and Dunback Meadow. MassGIS’s
mapped wetlands are shown on Map 6 Water Resources.
Aquifer Recharge Areas
The high percentage of impermeable surface in Lexington, both natural and human-
made, results in a high rate of precipitation runoff, which reduces the amount of
water available for groundwater recharge. Groundwater recharge takes place in
wetlands, such as those found in the Upper Vine Brook, Lower Vine Brook, Willard’s
Woods, and Dunback Meadow conservation areas. Lexington includes 3,256.7 acres of
Kiln Brook photographed in the
Meagherville Conservation Area.
4-14 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Department of Environmental Protection Approved Wellhead Protection Areas (Zone
II), which are important for protecting the recharge area around public water supply
groundwater sources. Most of this acreage falls in the Vine Brook watershed, which
provides drinking water for the town of Burlington. These Zone II areas are shown on
Map 6 Water Resources.
Vegetation
Introduction
Before settlement, Lexington—like much of New England—was almost completely
forested. As Lexington’s early settlers cleared land for farming, the town’s forests
were transformed into grassland or cropland, and by the early 1900’s, only 30 percent
of the town was forested. More recently, as farming has given way to other land uses,
many of the old fields that remain as open space have transitioned back to forest.
Using the Society of American Foresters’ classification system, Lexington’s forests
generally fall under the Transition Hardwoods-White Pine-Hemlock and the Central
Hardwoods-Hemlock-White Pine forest types.
Transition Hardwoods-White Pine-Hemlock
This zone, which covers much of Worcester and Franklin counties, as well as portions
of Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire and Norfolk counties, is named because both
northern hardwoods and central hardwoods such as oaks and hickories mix here.
White pine is found on abandoned fields and sandy sites and hemlock/northern
hardwood mixtures on lower slopes, with central hardwoods, white birch and white
pine on the hilltops.
Central Hardwoods-Hemlock-White Pine
This zone covers much of eastern Massachusetts, except southern Plymouth County
and Cape Cod, as well as lower elevations in southern Worcester and southern
Hampden counties. Oaks and hickories dominate, with red maple, chestnut oak, black
A panorama of Willard’s Woods.
4-15 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
birch and scarlet oak also common. Hemlock is the most common softwood but white
pine predominates on sandy sites.3
It is important to remember that forests are dynamic, changing over time and with
varying human and ecological influences, so that these classifications do not
necessarily designate the type of forest found now, but rather the “type of forests that
are likely to have existed prior to European settlement and would be likely to develop
in the absence of radical human or natural disturbance.”4
Within these two types, Lexington’s forests vary widely, both due to natural and
human influences. Examples of some of the less common forest communities include
the patches of scrub oak and pitch pine found at the uplands of the Great Meadow
and on top of Whipple Hill, the yellow birch and hemlock forest found at the Paint
Mine conservation area, and the stands of American beech found at the Meagherville
conservation area and Katahdin Woods.
The age of a forest also plays an important role in determining which plants dominate
its canopy and understory. Agricultural land that was abandoned earlier, such as is
found in the Sutherland Woods conservation area, supports a more mature forest
than agricultural land that was abandoned later, such as is found in the Juniper Hill
conservation area. In some places, old agricultural land that was previously drained
has reverted back to forested wetland, such as in the lower areas of the Simond’s
Brook and Dunback Meadow conservation areas.
Both the older and the younger forests in
Lexington provide a scenic quality to the
town as well as passive recreation
opportunities for walkers, runners,
skiers, bird-watches, and other outdoor
enthusiasts. Forested areas surrounding
the town’s streams help to provide shade
cover and soil stabilization to protect
stream health. Forested wetlands and
uplands provide habitat for a wide
variety of plants and wildlife,
contributing to the overall biodiversity of
the town. Forests also perform a number of other ecosystem services, such as filtering
pollutants from air, reducing erosion, and absorbing stormwater runoff.
In addition to Lexington’s forests, open meadows maintained by annual mowing are
located on a number of conservation areas (see below—Managed Properties). In other
3 MA Landowners’ Forest Association website (http://www.massforests.org/ma-forests/common-types.htm) 4 The Forest Use Manual by University of Massachusetts Cooperative Extension System
The Meagherville
Conservation Area provides a
serene setting for enjoying a
nature walk with a companion.
4-16 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
cases, current agricultural activity keeps meadows open, including at Wilson Farms,
Waltham Street Farm, and Hayden Woods conservation areas, and Busa Farm. These
open meadows provide habitat variety in Lexington and are particularly important
for certain butterfly, bird, and small mammal species, as well as hunting coyotes and
foxes. Meadows also help to stabilize soil and filter air and water. Without annual
mowing, these meadows would revert to forest through the process of succession.
Lexington currently has six flora species contained on the National Heritage and
Endangered Species Program rare species list. The following table is based on
information extracted from the NHESP database.
Table 4-1 Rare Flora Species in Lexington5
MESA Status Key: E = Endangered T = Threatened SC = Special Concern
Unusual Vegetation Types
As mentioned above, while Lexington’s forests fall into two broad types, on a finer
scale, they vary across town depending on topography, age, human impacts, and
soils. The town’s meadows show variety as well. Some of the more unusual
vegetation features in Lexington are described below.
Oak-pine-hickory forest at Whipple Hill Conservation Area
Whipple Hill is the largest tract of forest in Lexington, with roughly 120 acres of
forest. The canopy is dominated by oak, pine, and hickory. The understory includes
viburnum, sassafras, and spicebush, with sweet pepperbush growing along Whipple
Brook. This woodland and the small pond located within it support abundant
5 http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dfw/natural-heritage/species-information-and-conservation/town-species-viewer.html
Taxonomic Group Scientific Name Common Name MESA Status Most Recent Observation
1 Vascular Plant Platanthera dilatata Leafy White Orchid T Historic
2 Vascular Plant Claytonia virginica Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty E 1998
3 Vascular Plant Mimulus moschatus Muskflower E 1913
4 Vascular Plant Houstonia longifolia Long-leaved Bluet E 1897
5 Vascular Plant Doellingeria infirma Cornel-leaved Aster E 1931
6 Vascular Plant Liatris scariosa var. novae-angliae New England Blazing Star SC 1902
4-17 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
wildlife. A small area surrounding the summit has been cleared routinely throughout
its history, either from fire or by the ravages of gypsy and brown-tailed moths during
the 1890’s. Vegetation found on the top of Whipple Hill, such as scrub oak, pitch pine,
and bear-berry, is rare otherwise in town. In 2007, the New England Plant
Conservation Program (NEPCoP) conducted rare plant monitoring activities at
Whipple Hill and identified 17 plants of Polygonum tenue (Slender Knotweed) and 30
patches of Selanginella rupestris (Rock Spikemoss).
Arlington’s Great Meadow
The upland portion of Arlington’s Great Meadow has been repeatedly burned,
causing this area to resemble a scrub oak-pitch pine barrens, with lowbush blueberry
growing in the poor soils. The wetter portions of Arlington’s Great Meadow contain a
wide variety of native wetland plant species, including buttonbush, highbush
blueberry, and winterberry, although the invasive purple loosestrife is gaining
ground in the wetlands. The vegetation in this area has made it a well-known spot for
woodcock breeding.
White pine stand and meadows at Willard's Woods Conservation Area
The white pine grove at Willard’s Woods is the largest of its kind in Lexington, with
some red pines mixed in and young oaks and hickories beginning to fill in the
understory. The adjacent meadows are dotted with red cedar and grow high with
field annuals by the end of the summer.
Pine plantation and meadow at Dunback Meadow Conservation Area
Dunback Meadow conservation area includes a pine stand that was planted at the
turn of the century as a timber source and then later abandoned. During the winter of
1980–1981, 21 long-eared owls roosted within this pine grove, and other owls have
been spotted there since. The vegetation in the open meadow attracts a wide variety
of bird species and makes Dunback Meadow one of the town’s most popular birding
areas.
Ravine community at Paint Mine Conservation Area
Within this conservation area is a deep ravine that supports trees that are more
commonly found in northern New England, including dense hemlocks and yellow
4-18 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
birch. This is also one of the two locations in Lexington where American hop
hornbeam is found.
American beech forest at Meagherville Conservation Area
The Meagherville conservation area contains Lexington's largest forested area
dominated by American beech, a tree that is not common as a dominant species in
this part of the state. Beech-drops, an uncommon saprophytic plant in Middlesex
County, grows on the roots of these Meagherville beeches.
Managed Properties
Lexington manages all of its forested conservation areas for passive recreation and
wildlife habitat. No forest in Lexington is currently managed for timber harvesting
purposes, due in large part to the relatively small size of forest patches that exist, the
lack of nearby sawmills, and the heavy recreational use on the town’s forests.
The Town annually mows the vegetation at some areas of its conservation areas in
order to maintain open meadows. Conservation Land with mown areas include
Parker Meadow, Wright Farm, Juniper Hill, Cotton Farm/Upper Vine Brook, Paint
Mine, Hennessey Field, Poor Farm, West Farm, Chiesa Farm, Daisy Wilson’s
Meadow, Idylwilde, Willard’s Woods, and Shaker Glen. In addition, active
agricultural practices keep other fields open, both on Town-owned land (Waltham
Street Farm, Hayden Woods, and LexFarm/Busa Farm) and privately owned land
(Meadow Mist, Wilson Farm). Finally, NSTAR periodically mows the vegetation in its
utility easements in order to maintain access, which keeps shrubs, grasses, sedges,
and wildflowers dominant in these areas.
The following list describes some of the more prominent open meadows in town.
Poor Farm Conservation Area
A mowed knoll at Poor Farm, bordered by apple and peach trees and with a bench set
at the center, provides a lovely open vista from the entrance off Cedar and Hill
Streets.
Willard's Woods Conservation Area
The mowed fields at Willard’s Woods provide habitat for a wide variety of butterfly-
attracting wild flowers, including milkweed, goldenrod, sarsaparilla, asters, and
thistle, that Lexington schools use as part of their Big Backyard educational program.
Several cedars that have grown up in the center of the fields provide cover for birds.
4-19 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
West Farm Conservation Area
The open hillside at West Farm provides what is considered by many to be the
loveliest rural view in Lexington.
Daisy Wilson Meadow Conservation Area
The open field at Daisy Wilson Farm, bordered by stonewalls, gives the visitor to this
property a sense of the original context for the farmhouse and barn that still stand
adjacent to the property.
Idylwilde Conservation Area
The open field that occupies most of Idylwilde conservation area provides an area of
open space in an otherwise densely populated neighborhood. Due to slope, position
of trees, and rough, rocky landscape, this area is more suited for passive than active
recreation. Currently this is the site of the Idylwilde Community Garden.
Chiesa Farm Conservation Area
The hay fields at Chiesa Farm are mowed each year by the owner of the adjacent
farmhouse. This property, seen from Adams Street, competes with West Farm for
Lexington's most attractive rural vista.
Dunback Meadow Conservation Area
Dunback Meadow is the largest conservation property (161 acres) in Lexington and
includes an extensive wet meadow, a pine grove, a red maple swamp, Clematis
Brook, and a community garden.
Wright Farm
The 12.6 acres Wright Farm was purchased by the Lexington Conservation
Commission in 2013, with trail development and land management activities
forthcoming. With sweeping historic farm fields and rich forested wetlands, Wright
Farm provides key open space and habitat connectivity in the northwest corner of
Lexington. The property adjoins the Burlington Landlocked Forest (LLF), a regionally
popular 250-acre open space area with a well-developed trail network. Future trail
development at Wright Farm will provide access to the Burlington Landlocked Forest.
Waltham Street Farm Conservation Area
The field at Waltham Street Farm is utilized for corn crops by the lessee, a long-time
Lexington farming family. The field, backed by woods and distant hills, affords a
lovely scenic vista during all seasons from Waltham Street.
4-20 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Department of Conservation and Recreation Forest Stewardship Program
The Town is looking into applying for the Department of Conservation and
Recreation’s (DCR) Forest Stewardship Program. This program provides means to
protect woodlands in the Commonwealth through the creation of 10 year forest
management plans. These plans are specific to each tract of woodland in an effort to
protect soil and water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, timber resources, and
continued recreation opportunities.
Other uses
NSTAR Power Line Easement
NSTAR cuts the vegetation back every five years or so in order to keep the easement
open for repair trucks and regular maintenance. NSTAR encourages use of their
easements, believing that an actively used property is less prone to vandalism.
Public Shade Trees
The Town of Lexington approved a Tree Bylaw in April of 2001. This bylaw
effectively increased the protection of Lexington’s tree canopy. Shortly thereafter, in
October of 2001, a Tree Committee was established for the continued protection, care,
and planting of trees in Lexington. To that end, the Committee published a Tree
Management Manual in 2009; last updated in 2012.
The Tree Management Manual is a practical guide to tree planting and care. It is
directed toward Town employees, builders, contractors, developers, and private
individuals. Topics in the Manual include:
• Tree Planting
• Planting Guidelines
• Maintenance Specifications for Pruning
• Tree Protection During Construction
• Invasive Species—Impact on Public Lands
One of the major goals of the Tree Committee is to replace trees lost during the
preceding year on a one to one basis. This is accomplished through on ongoing
inventory of trees kept by the Committee and a tree planting program designed to
continually replenish the supply of shade trees and to maintain a healthy canopy. In
addition to enhancing the aesthetic value of the Town's streets, schools, parks, open
4-21 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
spaces, and private residences, this practice contributes toward mitigating some of the
adverse effects of climate change.
Forestry
The Town DPW in collaboration with the Tree Committee currently maintains a small
tree farm for municipal tree planting within the Lower Vine Brook Conservation
Area.
Fisheries and Wildlife
Introduction
For many species of wildlife, Lexington represents the easternmost boundary of
available habitat in the Greater Boston area. Lexington’s wildlife provides ecological,
recreational, educational, and aesthetic benefits to the citizens of an increasingly
urbanized section of Massachusetts.
Wildlife Corridors
Wildlife corridors connect two or more wildlife habitat areas, allowing animals to
travel through otherwise developed areas or un-travelable areas. In densely
populated communities such as Lexington, wildlife may use train tracks, rail trails,
bike paths, or power lines as corridors as well as streams, rivers, undeveloped
wetlands, riparian buffers, and backyards. Since there is no established database
available for wildlife corridors in Massachusetts, a cartographic analysis of Lexington
was conducted using GIS software and pertinent datalayers available through
MassGIS.
The first step in this analysis was to establish conservation land boundaries within
Lexington. Second, bike trails, rail lines, and the Natural Heritage & Endangered
Species Program (NHESP) layers of BioMap Core Habitat and BioMap Supporting
Natural Landscape were added to the map. Once all these layers were plotted on the
map, a network started to emerge (see Map 7 Natural Habitats).
4-22 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Significant Wildlife Corridors
The most significant wildlife corridors that pass through Lexington are:
Regional
The Minuteman Bikeway and Minuteman National Historic Park form the basis for
Lexington’s regional habitat links. These links provide access to the west and east
toward Concord, Bedford, and Arlington.
Local
• The stretch of green space surrounding Munroe Brook, which connects
Arlington’s Great Meadow with Arlington Reservoir
• The stretch of green space from the Old Reservoir to the Lincoln Park
wetlands
• The stretch along a significant portion of Vine Brook from Butterfield's Pond
to Lower Vine Brook Conservation Area
• Along a significant portion of Simonds Brook and Kiln Brook (in the West
Lexington Greenway region, including Meagherville Conservation area and
the Pine Meadows Golf Course)
• A significant portion of Clematis Brook from Dunback Meadow Conservation
Area to Beaver Brook in Belmont, including the surrounding Hayden Woods
and Upper Vine Brook conservation areas
Potential Wildlife Corridors
Land acquisition and protection in strategic locations could create stronger wildlife
corridors in certain areas of town, such as along some of Lexington’s brooks, along the
West Lexington Greenway project area, and between many conservation areas. For
instance, Joyce Miller’s Meadow conservation area, which borders the Minuteman
Commuter Bikeway and sits just south of Lower Vine Brook conservation area, was
acquired in 1995, increasing the already significant amount of green space along the
bikeway. During the 1970’s and 1980’s, Lexington protected land adjacent to
powerline easement through its purchase of the Paint Mine, Simonds Brook, Tophet
Swamp, Katahdin Woods, and Cranberry Hill conservation areas. Protecting other
areas through similar strategies can build new wildlife corridors and strengthen
existing ones. Efforts toward this end are underway as part of the West Lexington
Greenway project, which will link the Minuteman Bikeway with the Battle Road,
providing a travel corridor for people and wildlife alike. The addition of Wright Farm
has strengthened connection from Burlington LLF.
4-23 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Migratory “Stop-over” Habitats
Migration represents a critical time for the survival of many bird species that pass
through Lexington annually. As much as 80-90% of annual mortality may occur
during the migratory period. (Monitoring Animal Migration in the Greater Acadia
Region, Olsen, McCabe et al, University of Maine, 2013). “Stop-over” habitats that
provide species with food, rest, and a low risk of predation can lower the risk of
migration and contribute to the long-term viability of migratory populations.
Inventory
Mammals
Lexington contains many mammal species that are common to semi-rural areas of
eastern Massachusetts. While no formal inventory of mammals has been conducted in
Lexington in the recent past, observations as well as information in MassWildlife’s
State Mammals List indicate that the following mammals utilize habitat in Lexington:
Eastern coyote, red fox, white-tailed deer, beaver, mink, otter, muskrat, ermine, long-
tailed weasel, fisher, raccoon, skunk, Virginia opossum, gray squirrels, red squirrels,
flying squirrels, Eastern chipmunk, woodchuck, Eastern cottontail rabbit, various
bats, and various small mammals (shrews, moles, voles, mice, rats). Occasional
visitors to Lexington may include porcupine, bobcat, and bear, although no recent
sightings have been noted.6
Birds
In 1912, Dr. Winsor M. Tyler (contributor to Arthur C. Bent's Life Histories) compiled
a bird list for Lexington that was published as an appendix to Charles Hudson's
History of the Town of Lexington. Tyler's list included 166 species, 87 of which were
breeding in Lexington. A modern list compiled by John Andrews for the Citizens for
Lexington Conservation lists 185 species, 69 of which are thought to breed in the
Town (See “Checklist of Lexington Birds” by John Andrews). The increase in the total
number of species is due primarily to the greater skill and resources of modern
birders (armed with excellent field guides, optics, and automobiles) in ferreting out
the more rare migrants. The decline in the number of breeding species is probably
due to a variety of causes, chief among them being the destruction of wetlands,
conversion of farmland to residential use, and the introduction of the European
starling and English house sparrow. Lexington contains at least one birding site,
6 Based on observations and MassWildlife’s State Mammals List (http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/dfwmam.htm)
4-24 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Dunback Meadow, that is of statewide significance. It was at this site in 1979 that the
first state record of McGillivray's warbler occurred. Dunback Meadow is also a
dependable site for wintering long-eared owls, a rare species in this part of the state.
In the winter of 1980–81, a remarkable roost of 22 long-eared owls assembled at
Dunback Meadow. Birding groups from three states visited the site to observe the
birds and a behavioral study of roosting was conducted.
Dunback Meadow is also one of the best sites in the area for observing the courtship
displays of the American woodcock, and birders from neighboring towns visit the site
yearly to observe this spectacle. Dunback Meadow is the only site in Lexington where
the following species are regularly observed: saw-whet owl, northern shrike,
bobolink, and the grasshopper sparrow. Each year, several bird walks are held at
Dunback Meadow by the Brookline Bird Club and by Citizens for Lexington
Conservation. It is also censused yearly as part of the Greater Boston Christmas Bird
Count sponsored by the National Audubon Society. Other sites of birding interest are
Whipple Hill (spring migration, wood duck, broad-winged hawk), Willard's Woods
(spring migration, breeding broad-winged hawk), Arlington Reservoir (waterfowl,
shorebirds, osprey), Hobbs Brook Basin (fall shorebirds), and Arlington's Great
Meadow (ruffed grouse, great horned owl).
Reptiles and Amphibians
While a formal inventory of reptiles and amphibians in Lexington has not been
conducted in recent years, observations and MassWildlife’s State Reptiles and
Amphibians List indicate that the following species occur or are likely to occur in
Lexington.7
Snakes: black racer, common garter, milk, brown, eastern hognose, ribbon, northern
water, redbelly, ringneck, and smooth green.
Turtles: snapping, eastern musk, painted, spotted, and box (the last two listed as
species of special concern)
Toads: American, Fowler’s
Frogs: spring peeper, gray tree, bull, green, pickerel, leopard, and wood
Salamanders: spotted, northern dusky, eastern red-backed, northern two-lined, blue-
spotted, four-toed, (both species of special concern), marbled (threatened species) and
eastern newt
7 MassWildlife’s State Reptiles and Amphibians List, 4th edition, 2000, revised 2002 and 2006, James E. Cardoza & Peter G. Mirick, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife , accessed at: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/dfwamph.htm
4-25 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Fish
The principal site in Lexington frequented by fishermen and women is the Old
Reservoir. It is stocked with trout each spring by the Massachusetts Department of
Fisheries and Wildlife. Other sites where fishing has occurred, but is not permitted,
are Hobbs Brook Basin (Cambridge Water Supply). Fishing at the North Street sand
pits is discouraged due to dangerous depths.
Rare Species
The National Heritage and Endangered Species Program, part of the Massachusetts
Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, lists observations of 8 endangered, threatened or
special concern species in Lexington, as indicated in the table below. As noted in the
above inventories, other species may be present but unobserved due to the low level
of recent survey efforts.
Table 4-3 Rare Fauna Species in Lexington8
MESA Status Key: E = Endangered T = Threatened SC = Special Concern
Taxonomic Group Scientific Name Common Name MESA Status Most Recent Observation
1 Bird Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed Grebe E 1899
2 Bird Ixobrychus exilis Least Bittern E Historic
3 Bird Circus cyaneus Northern Harrier T 1879
4 Bird Accipiter striatus Sharp-shinned Hawk SC 1870
5 Bird Tyto alba Barn Owl SC 1956
6 Amphibian Ambystoma laterale Blue-spotted Salamander SC 2009
7 Reptile Glyptemys insculpta Wood Turtle SC 1994
8 Reptile Terrapene carolina Eastern Box Turtle SC 1992
Scenic Resources and Unique Environments
Introduction
The following list presents a brief description of a few of the additional unique
landscape features that have not been described elsewhere in this chapter. For a
presentation of where these features are in Town, please see Map 8 Unique Features.
8 http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/species_info/town_lists/town_l.htm#lexington
4-26 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Battle Green
The Lexington Battle Green is the center point of the town’s historical interpretation
efforts. Tourists come by the busload to visit this important historic location, and the
nearby Visitors’ Center averages approximately 100,000 visitors each year. Town-
sponsored guides give talks on the Battle Green year-round. Guided tours are
conducted from April through October by Lexington Historical Society guides at the
nearby Buckman Tavern, Hancock-Clarke House (on Hancock Street, about one-third
mile away), and at Munroe Tavern (on Massachusetts Avenue, about one mile to the
east).
Belfry Hill
Belfry Hill is an approximately 3 acre site located across the street from Cary
Memorial Library, near the Battle Green. During the warmer months, the site
provides a venue for the Town Librarian’s story hour, informal exploration, and a
wonderful opportunity for employees who work in the Town Center to take a
pleasant lunch outside. In winter, it is a popular sledding location and a destination
for contemplative strolls. Tourists also ascend the hill throughout the year to see the
historic belfry atop.
Tower Park
This Town-owned area is an open, landscaped park along Massachusetts Avenue just
outside of the center of town and accessible from the Minuteman Bikeway. Tower
Park offers benches, picnic tables, and a pathway for leisure walks, as well as shade
trees, rolling lawn, and ornamental shrubs. On fair weather days, dozens of cars are
often parked along Massachusetts Avenue along the park with their passengers
lounging on the grass, picnicking, or playing informal games. In the winter, children
sled from Massachusetts Avenue to the Minuteman Bikeway.
Minuteman National Historic Park
The Minuteman National Historic Park is owned by the United States and
administered by the National Park Service. Most of this linear park, stretching along
Route 2A from Lexington (west of Route 95/128) to Concord, lies in Lincoln and
Concord, but a small portion of the western end of the park lies in Lexington. The
Lexington portion of the park contains the Bloody Bluff, the Minute Man Visitor
Center, and Fiske Hill. Visitors to this park usually also stop at the Lexington Battle
Green and historic houses in Lexington to view the early American Revolutionary
Scenes.
4-27 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Paint Mine Conservation Area
In addition to the unique hemlock ravine described in Section 4.4, Vegetation, the Paint
Mine area also contains a wetland that was previously flooded to create muskrat
breeding habitat and is now slowly reverting back to bog. An open power line
easement, pine-oak woods, and adjacent Hennessey field add to the ecological
diversity of this area. Since at least one plant growing in Paint Mine is considered
“rare” in Middlesex County, this property is listed with the Natural Heritage Program
as an “estimated habitat of rare wildlife.”
Great Meadow
Though owned by Arlington, the Great Meadow is located entirely within the bounds
of Lexington. Consisting of dry upland areas, extensive wet meadows, and a
registered vernal pond (certification #184), this 184-acre property makes up one of the
largest contiguous open spaces in Lexington. During the late 1800’s, Arlington’s
Great Meadow was visited by noted naturalists such as Frank Boles and William
Brewster. In his 1893 journal, Brewster described a visit to Great Meadow during
which he studied the pied-billed grebes that were common there. Almost 100 years
later, pied-billed grebes were spotted at the nearby Arlington Reservoir (which is
partly in Lexington). As far back as 1967, the Great Meadow was considered an
important link in a greenbelt that connects it with the Mystic Lakes in Arlington. At
the conference celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Metropolitan Park System,
Executive Director of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council recommended that
“trails could be developed from this center [Mystic Lakes area], around the lakes and
along the greenbelt connections to the east of the Middlesex Fells and to the west to
Great Meadow in Lexington.”
Lower Vine Brook Conservation Area
The Lower Vine Brook property, which contains a former sand pit, displays a
dramatic landscape with greatly varied topography. The area includes an uncertified
vernal pond where eastern newts, spotted salamanders, and northern leopard frogs
have been known to breed. Vine Brook, which runs along the western side of this
property, provides a significant forested wildlife corridors stretching from the
Burlington line at Butterfield Pond through the Lower Vine Brook Conservation Area.
Lower Vine Brook is also one of the closest conservation areas to the center of
Lexington.
4-28 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Wright Farm
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Lower Vine Brook
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Document Path: \\vhb\proj\Wat-LD\12893.00\GIS\Project\08 Unique Features_2014.mxd
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 201
Map 8
Unique Features
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
°0 0.5 10.25
Miles
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Interstate
U.S. Highway
State Route
Wetlands
Water Bodies
Major Streams
Scenic Resources and Unique Environments
Other Open Space and Recreation Areas
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Hayden Woods Conservation Area
The 78.9 acre Hayden Woods Conservation Area features an old Lexington road that
was laid out in 1660 and which was, according to local historians, a part of the so-
called Virginia Path, which led Native Americans to the Shawsheen River where they
traded goods with northern tribes.
Cotton Farm
Most of Cotton Farm/Upper Vine Brook is wetland, but the eastern side of the area is
accessible by a trail running from Highland Avenue to a driveway that exits onto
Marrett Road. The site has scenic frontage on Marrett Road and hosts a Town-owned
apple orchard. There is a small picnic area near the pond at the Marrett Road entrance
to Cotton Farm/Upper Vine Brook.
Wright Farm
The 12.6 acres Wright Farm, with its sweeping historic farm fields and rich forested
wetlands, adds significant value to the Town’s scenic landscape as well as a key
wildlife and recreation connection with the Burlington Land Locked Forest.
Picnic area at Cotton Farm
4-30 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Community Gardens
The community gardens at Idylwilde and Dunback Meadow, owned and managed by
the Conservation Commission, are considered important resources to the Town; they
are extremely popular and highly valued by residents.
Busa Farm
The Town acquisition of Busa Farm in 2009 allowed for the preservation of an
important agricultural resource in Lexington. Currently the site of Lexington
Community Farm, this is one of two Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
programs in Lexington (Wilson Farm also offers a CSA).
Unusual Geologic Features
Bloody Bluff Fault
The Bloody Bluff, which is located at the historic Fiske Hill site at the corner of Old
Massachusetts Avenue and Marrett Road, is considered an unusual geological feature
in Town. As described earlier in the landscape characters, it reveals a section of
granite bedrock exposed by the Bloody Bluff fault running through Lexington as it
travels approximately 80 miles from Newbury, MA to northern Connecticut.9 First
discovered in the early 1960’s, the Bloody Bluff fault was seen by geologists as an
opportunity to examine the theory of plate tectonics, as hypothetically the Bloody
Bluff area was an area of contact between two major continental plates.
Whipple Hill
The rounded summit rock and high exposed cliffs of Whipple Hill are also considered
unusual geological features. As the highest point in Lexington at 374 feet, the top of
Whipple Hill is home to plants not otherwise found widely in Lexington. Owned by
the Town as a conservation area, Whipple Hill also hosts a variety of wildlife habitats
and a diverse plant species.
9 http://www.geologicresources.com/bloody_bluff_fault.html and Roadside Geology of Massachusetts by Skehan.
4-31 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Environmental Challenges
Hazardous Waste
As of the December 2, 2014, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection (DEP) website listed 205 confirmed hazardous waste sites10 in Lexington.
Lexington has no Federal Superfund sites. Most of the state-listed sites are relatively
minor oil releases that have been or will soon be cleaned up. However, several other
sites listed as reportable releases by DEP are currently listed as open sites at various
phases of assessment and remediation.
Landfills
The Town of Lexington owns a 67-acre parcel situated between Hartwell Avenue and
Route 128/95. Approximately one-third of this property previously served as the
Town’s landfill. A large portion of the remaining site area is wetlands. The landfill has
been closed since 1980 and the Town has used the site for various activities since that
time including leaf and yard waste composting, material storage for Department of
Public Works (DPW) operations and a regional household hazardous waste collection
facility. The site is commonly referred to as either the Hartwell Avenue Landfill or the
Lexington Compost Facility (hereafter referred to in this report as the Hartwell
Avenue Landfill Site or Landfill Site).
The 38.30 acre Lincoln Park, centrally located in the Town on Lincoln Street, is built
on the site of a former landfill. The property was first obtained by the Town as part of
the water supply works in the late 1800’s. It was abandoned around 1905 when the
Town joined the Metropolitan District Commission and in the 1930’s became the town
landfill. In 1963, the landfill was abandoned and subsequently capped. Between 1968
and 1989, various improvements had occurred on the capped landfill to create three
natural grass multipurpose fields, a Little League field, and a softball field. The multi-
purpose fields were further upgraded with synthetic turf in 2003. Today, Lincoln Park
consists of three multi-purpose synthetic turf fields, one Little League baseball field,
one softball field, a playground, open space, and the Teresa and Roberta Lee Fitness
and Nature Path that are frequented by town residents and many other organized
programs throughout the Town.
10 http://db.state.ma.us/dep/cleanup/sites/search.asp
4-32 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Development Impacts
Lexington’s land use pattern is basically established and land use issues mainly linger
on uses involving redevelopment and intensification. Particularly in Lexington
Center, intensification of existing uses is possible within the limits of zoning. A
limited amount of further commercial development is possible in outlying
commercial areas, with potentially more development upon alteration of dimensional
rules. Future commercial development will likely bring with them environmental
concerns such as trash, litter, and increased stormwater runoff. Additional efforts on
managing stormwater runoff pollution, sedimentation, and erosion into surface
waters are necessary, and the Town is taking a variety of steps to address this issue.
On the other hand, only a limited amount of undeveloped land remains in the Town
where new development, especially residential, may occur in the future. This
development trend could potentially threaten parcels the Town prefers to preserve for
open space, but could also create new demand for recreation opportunities. While the
Town strives to preserve as much of these undeveloped parcels as possible for open
space protection, incentives to encourage appropriate developments that incorporate
open space and recreational amenities should continue to be addressed in the project
review process.
Water Management and Flood Control
Chronic Flooding
Over the years, Lexington has taken a proactive approach to alleviate flooding. Vine
Brook was lowered during the 1950’s, and other brooks were lowered during the
1970’s including: Clematis Brook, Hardy’s Pond Brook, and Willard’s Brook.
Currently, trouble areas related to flooding include the stretch along Hartwell
Avenue, where beavers have erected a dam in Tophet Swamp, the Sickle Brook area
between the Adams School and the Minuteman Bikeway, the Swommon Land area
off Barberry Road, and Kiln Brook at Pine Meadows Golf Club.
4-33 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Sedimentation
Over the past thirty years, Lexington has been dealing with the build-up of
sedimentation in its brooks, particularly where they pass beneath roads. In the 1970’s,
the Conservation Commission purchased the Parker Meadow Conservation Area and
built a pond to slow down the waters of North Lexington Brook, which was causing
problems where it passed beneath Route 128. Comprehensive Watershed
Management Plans were completed by consultants to the Town Engineering
Department, in collaboration with the Conservation Department, for each of the three
watersheds: Charles, Shawsheen and Mystic with the goal of identifying land
addressing sedimentation issues and improving the ecological integrity of the brooks.
Ground and Surface Water Pollution
In addition to sedimentation, most of the water bodies and brooks in Lexington face
the threat of nonpoint pollution from roadway, house, business, and stormwater
runoff, as mentioned in Section 4.3, Water Resources. Nonpoint pollution is not
traceable to a specific structure, such as pollution that travels through runoff or sheets
of rainwater across the land. There is no perceivable source of pollution to the
groundwater. The Town’s Watershed Stewardship program, coordinated by the
Town’s Engineering Department, aims to identify where these nonpoint pollution
problems are occurring and plan for remediation efforts. Section 4.3, Water Sources
discusses in more detail regarding the water resource protection needs in Lexington.
Pictured here is Parker Meadow’s
manmade pond, built by the Town in
the 1970’s.
4-34 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Invasive Species
A number of invasive species are widespread in Lexington. These include trees
(Norway maple, tree of heaven), shrubs (burning bush, barberry species), vines that
kill trees (oriental bittersweet, English ivy), and herbaceous species (purple
loosestrife, garlic mustard, common reed). These invasive species can crowd out
native plants, overgrow trails, trees, and utility lines, and impact ecosystem functions.
A list of prevalent invasive species in Lexington is included below:
• Acer platanoides - Norway Maple
• Acer pseudoplatanus - Sycamore Maple
• Ailanthus altissima - Tree of Heaven
• Alliaria petiolata - Garlic Mustard
• Ampelopsis brevipedunculata - Porcelainberry
• Berberis thunbergii - Japanese Barberry
• Berberis vulgaris - Common or European Barberry
• Celastrus orbiculatus - Oriental Bittersweet
• Cynanchum louiseae - Black Swallow-wort
• Elaeagnus umbellalata - Autumn Olive
• Euonymus alatus - Burning Bush
• Hedera helix* - English Ivy
• Ligustrum obtusifolium - Border Privet
• Lonicera sp. - All shrub species of Honeysuckles
• Lythrum salicaria - Purple Loosestrife
• Phragmites australis - Common Reed
• Pyrus calleryana* - Callery or Bradford Pear
• Fallopia japonica or Polygonum cuspidatum - Japanese Knotweed
• Rhamnus cathartica - Common Buckthorn
• Rhamnus frangula* - Glossy Buckthorn
• Rosa multiflora - Multiflora Rose
• Vinca minor - Dwarf Periwinkle
(Species noted with an * are not included on the Massachusetts Prohibited Plant List
but are considered to be prevalent and of concern in Lexington.)
Many groups in Lexington have worked to address invasive species, including the
Tree Committee, Lexington Conservation Commission, Lexington Conservation
Stewards, Citizens for Lexington Conservation, and the Lincoln Park Sub-committee.
Lexington Conservation Stewards serves as a volunteer organization of Lexington’s
Conservation Commission, working closely to plan and carry out stewardship
activities on town-owned conservation land. The Stewards work to control invasive
species by eliminating them where possible and limiting their expansion where
elimination is impractical. In 2010, representatives of Citizens for Lexington
Conservation, the Lexington Tree Committee, and the Lexington Conservation
Commission published a comprehensive Plant Materials Guide for Lexington MA.
4-35 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
This guide provides a list of native plant species predominantly native to Middlesex
County suitable for landscaping purposes as well as a list of the most common
invasive plant species found in the Lexington community. The guide can be
downloaded from a link on the conservation web page or copies are available in the
Conservation Office and the Cary Memorial Library. More coordinated, ongoing
efforts and strategic planning are needed to best address this problem.
Climate Change
With climate change, new environmental challenges may arise or current challenges
may be exacerbated. Scientists generally agree that climate change will tend to create
more ice storms (which can cause severe damage to forests), wetter spring seasons
(which can lead to increased flooding and erosion), and warmer temperatures overall
(which can affect the survival capabilities of certain species) in New England11.
Loss of Agricultural Land
Over the years, the Conservation Commission has acquired and protected a number
of Lexington’s agricultural properties, including Chiesa Farm, West Farm, Poor Farm,
Hennessey Field, Cotton Farm,. Wright Farm, and Waltham Street Farm. Some of
these areas are now maintained as open meadows, while others are actively used for
agricultural purposes. In addition, two community gardens currently sit on Town
conservation land at Idylwilde and Dunback Meadow conservation areas. In the
years since the last Open Space and Recreation Plan was completed, however,
Lexington has seen two of its few remaining agricultural properties—Doran’s Farm
and Lexington Gardens—converted to development.
The Town purchased Busa Farm, one of the last working farms in Lexington, on
December 2, 2009. After lengthy public deliberation the Town has elected to lease the
property to Lexington Community Farm, a local non-profit organization that has
established a community based farm offering locally grown produce through
Community Supported Agricultural (CSA) shares and an onsite farm stand, along
with various educational programs for the community.
Erosion
As mentioned earlier, the Town has completed a stormwater management mitigation
project at the Old Res, using CPA funding. Additionally, the Town has had watershed
management plans for Lexington’s three major watersheds completed since 2009. As a
11 Massachusetts Climate Change Adaptation Report: http://www.mass.gov/eea/waste-mgnt-recycling/air-quality/green-house-gas-and-climate-change/climate-change-adaptation/climate-change-adaptation-report.html
4-36 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
result of the watershed management planning, restoring the native buffer zone along
the pond at Willard’s Woods and daylighting Willard’s Brook has been identified as a
priority project due to severe erosion from collapsed infrastructure.
Environmental Equity
Equal distribution of Town services is vital to the success and health of the
community. Ensuring equal access for all Town residents includes not only access to
schools, health facilities, and safety services but also access to public lands and natural
areas. Proximity to preserved natural spaces has been shown to increase
physiological, psychological, and sociological well-being. These are benefits all
Lexington residents should enjoy. Further, it is important to ensure that no part of the
population is disproportionately exposed to environments with health hazards or
concerns. The issue of environmental equity informs Lexington’s decisions on open
space planning as is evident by the well-distributed open space and recreation
facilities throughout the Town (see Map 9 Open Space and Recreation Inventory).
Particular attention is paid to the Environmental Justice (EJ) populations, which
throughout the Commonwealth are often identified to have suffered from
environmental inequality. There are eleven environmental justice populations in
Lexington as a result of either minority or foreign born populations exceeding 25
percent of the total block group population, as discussed in Sections 2.3 and 3.3. It is
evident, as shown in Map 2 Environmental Justice Populations, that all of Lexington’s
EJ populations are well served by abundant of open space and recreation resources
distributed evenly throughout the community and within these EJ neighborhoods.
The Town will continue the enhanced outreach efforts in these EJ neighborhoods to
encourage public involvement in open space planning and promote awareness of
available open space and recreation opportunities.
4-37 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
Page Intentionally Left Blank
4-38 Chapter 4 - Environmental Inventory and Analysis September 2015
5
Open Space and Recreation
Inventory
Introduction
This section details information about open space and recreational lands in the Town
of Lexington. According to the Massachusetts’ Executive Office of Energy and
Environmental Affairs, open space is: “conservation land, recreation land, agricultural
land, corridor parks and amenities such as small parks, green buffers along roadways
or any open area that is owned by an agency or organization dedicated to
conservation.” The inventory provided here includes conservation and recreation
land owned by the Town of Lexington, large tracts of private land, land that falls
under Chapter 61, large state-owned properties, and National Park Service land.
Additionally, land owned by the Town of Arlington (the Great Meadow) and the City
of Cambridge (Cambridge Reservoir) has also been included. Determinations of each
site’s condition, recreational potential, and public access were made based on
observations by Town staff.
Preservation of open space is extremely important to the residents of Lexington, the
region, and the Commonwealth from several different perspectives. Locally,
Lexington places a great deal of value in its historic and cultural resources,
particularly in regards to the town’s significance in the American Revolution. A
number of these historic and cultural sites also serve as important open spaces,
including the Battle Green and the National Park Service’s Minuteman National
Historic Park.
Additional land is owned and protected in Lexington by abutting communities,
including the Town of Arlington (Great Meadow), which was originally preserved as
a reservoir site, and the City of Cambridge (Cambridge Reservoir), which owns
hundreds of acres of land in Lexington, Lincoln, Waltham, and Weston.
●●●
According to the
Massachusetts'
Executive Office of
Energy and
Environmental
Affairs, open space is:
“conservation land,
recreation land,
agricultural land,
corridor parks and
amenities such as
small parks, green
buffers along
roadways or any open
area that is owned by
an agency or
organization dedicated
to conservation.”
5-1 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
Much of the land listed in this inventory provides extensive passive and active
recreational opportunities. There are a number of existing open space and trail
networks among the preserved parcels, and with careful planning and additional
acquisition, these networks can be further enhanced. The primary goal of the West
Lexington Greenway Project, funded by the Town’s Community Preservation Act
(CPA) funds, is to plan for a network of pedestrian and bicycle trails, including
universally accessible sections, linking all Lexington conservation areas on the west
side of Route 95/128. Significant environmental challenges will need to be met in
establishing portions of this trail network as portions of the area are subject to
protection pursuant to the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and Lexington
Wetlands Protection Code. Further, a majority of the area between Bedford Street and
Wood Street falls within FEMA-mapped Zone A floodplain areas. Note that within
this study area, the Town landfill is located between Tophet Swamp and Kathadin
Woods. Although the landfill cannot be considered an open space at this point in
time, it may play an important role in connecting these open spaces at some point in
the future. Furthermore, the Town will continue its efforts to determine where
conservation restrictions may be appropriate to further protect valued open spaces in
the Greenway area.
The Open Space Matrix column headings are defined below.
• Name/Location/Map/Lot - Names the open space site and its street address,
and identifies the map and lot numbers on the Town assessor’s maps.
• Acres - Gives the site’s acreage or an approximation in cases where specific
information was not attainable. One acre is 43,560 square feet or 1/640 of a
square mile.
• Ownership/Management - Indicates the owner of the property and the
agency or department responsible for managing and maintaining the parcel.
Usually the two are the same.
• Current Use - Details the main uses for the site.
• Condition - Identifies the site condition (excellent, good, fair or poor). Town-
owned open spaces and parks were surveyed to obtain a general sense of the condition
of the property and any facilities located on it (parking, fields, playground equipment,
etc.).
• Public Access - Indicates if the public can access the site.
• ADA Accessible - Indicates if people with disabilities can access the site or its
amenities.
• Recreation Potential - For land not used for recreational purposes, potential
for recreational activities is identified. Conservation land is generally deemed
to have limited recreation potential except for passive recreation such as
hiking and walking. Cemeteries and other similar lands are presumed to
have no recreational potential.
• Zoning - Identifies the zoning district in which the parcel is located.
5-2 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
• Protection Status/Deed Restrictions - Indicates if the site, either by virtue of
its zoning, ownership, existence of deed restrictions, or by the fact that it has
received state or federal funding, is protected against conversion to some
other use (see below).
• Grant Received - Where applicable, identifies the source of funding for the
acquisition of the parcel, including public grants, private donations, deed
restrictions, etc.
The information contained in the inventory is based on information in the 2009 Open
Space and Recreation Plan, survey work of open spaces and recreational facilities by
staff at the Recreation and Community Programs and Conservation Departments, and
Assessor’s data updated through fiscal year 2015.
Types of Open Space and Recreation Land Protection
Determining where the open space and recreation land is located in Lexington is the
beginning stage of fully understanding what resources the Town has and where they
are located. Once this land has been identified, it is important to ensure its protection
and maintenance into the future to help guarantee that many more generations of
residents can enjoy them. According to the Division of Conservation Services, land
within a community is protected in perpetuity if it is owned by the local Conservation
Commission, by Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA)
agencies, by a nonprofit land trust, or if the Town received state or federal monies for
the improvement or purchase of the land. Private property can also be permanently
protected if there is a deed restriction, if the land is listed as having an Agricultural
Preservation Restriction, or if the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has
placed a restriction on the property for wetland conservation. Typically, land owned
by other agencies like the Recreation Committee and the local school system should
not be presumed to be permanently protected.
During the update process for this Plan, a GIS analysis was conducted to determine
the amount of Lexington’s open space that is protected in perpetuity. The data for this
analysis was provided by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts via the Office of
Geographic and Environmental Information (MassGIS). The analysis results show
that approximately 20% of the total acreage in Lexington is protected in perpetuity as
open space.
Listed below are details about different types of protection that either are or could be
available to open space and recreation land in Lexington.
5-3 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
• Massachusetts Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity (LAND) program,
Massachusetts Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities
(PARC) program, and Massachusetts Land and Water Fund Parcels
purchased with funding from these three grants (all administered through the
State’s Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs), gain
protection in perpetuity by automatically falling under Article 97 (see below).
• Article 97 Protection - Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution protects
all publicly owned lands used for conservation or recreation purposes. This
amendment requires action by the Conservation Commission and Recreation
Commission, a 2/3 vote of the Town Meeting, as well as a roll-call 2/3 vote of
the State House of Representatives and Senate, in order to sell, transfer, or
convert Article 97 lands to a different use. Because the chance of this
happening is so small, Article 97 lands are considered to be protected in
perpetuity.
• Protection through Ownership (“Fee”) - In some cases, the open space in
question has been acquired in its entirety (“in fee”) by a public or private
conservation interest or a State or Federal agency (such as the National Park
Service). In many cases, such ownership will trigger other forms of
protection, such as Article 97. If the owner is a nonprofit organization (such
as the Trustees of Reservations), the land could in theory be sold and/or
developed, depending on its restriction status, but doing so could contradict
the group’s conservation purpose.
• Protection through Conservation Restrictions, Easements, or other Deed
Instruments - Due to the high costs of acquiring land, it has become
increasingly popular to acquire conservation restrictions limiting future
development. Similarly, access easements can provide permanent public
access to a property. In certain situations, deed restrictions or easements may
be granted by a private party as part of a development approval process. As
with any matters involving real property, care must be taken in the drafting
of the restrictions to ensure that the rights and interests of all parties are
represented and clearly documented. Conservation restrictions must be
approved by the municipality and the Massachusetts Division of
Conservation Services.
• Chapter 61 - This program, through reduced property tax incentives, can help
protect forest (Chapter 61), agricultural (Chapter 61A), and recreation
(Chapter 61B) land in Massachusetts if the land is managed for those
purposes. Should the owner wish to end the agreement, the municipality has
the authority to recover tax benefits given and has first right of refusal on the
purchase of the land if it is to be sold for non-Chapter 61 purposes. This right
of first refusal was recently extended to one year by a 2007 amendment to the
statute governing these programs.
5-4 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
Inventory of Open Space and Recreation Resources
The Lexington Inventory of Public and Private Open Space presented in Table 5-1
includes public and private recreation and conservation land. The inventory shows
approximately 2,064 acres of Town-owned conservation and recreation land. About
an additional 200 acres of recreational land is privately held, including the Hayden
Recreation Centre, Lexington Christian Academy, Lexington Golf Club, and Stone
Meadow Golf.
Additional properties of privately-owned open space represent approximately 204
acres. There are also two privately-owned properties that fall under Chapter 61A,
totaling approximately 18 acres. In addition, there are six properties that fall under
Chapter 61B recreational land, totaling approximately 188 acres.
All properties identified in the inventory are depicted in Map 9 Open Space and
Recreation Resources.
Park and Open Space Equity
Map 2 depicts the Environmental Justice (EJ) populations found in Lexington based
upon Mass GIS data. The map also shows the proximity of the Town’s open space
resources. The EJ populations are both located in areas of Lexington that seem well-
served with access to a variety of open space resources. The western EJ population
sector is located within the West Lexington Greenway project study area. One of the
goals of the West Lexington Greenway Plan is to create a connected network of trails
for walking and biking, which will further enhance connectivity to that area and other
portions of the Town. As is the case with the Town as a whole, many of the major
recreational facilities and opportunities are located closer to the center of Lexington,
so in that respect, the EJ populations are not necessarily more disadvantaged than the
population as a whole.
Given Lexington’s growth pattern, it does not have vacant lots that can be easily
transformed into parks or open spaces. Rather, the Town hopes to be able to purchase
lands of significance as they become available and when the funding exists for such
purchases. Criteria will be developed to help guide the acquisition strategy for the
Town.
As described in Section 4, Environmental Inventory and Analysis there are no brownfield
sites—most of the hazardous waste site issues in Lexington are from oil releases from
gas stations or similar land uses.
5-5 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
Page 1
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Town Owned
Adams Park
739 Massachusetts Ave
Map: 22 Lot: 51A
9.92 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community
Programs.
Recreation Ballfield-Fair, Tennis Courts-
Very Good, Basketball Court-
Very Good, Play Equipment-
Fair
Yes Partial Basketball, Soccer, Tennis,
Ultimate Frisbee, Access to
Minuteman Bikeway
RS Protected
Adams Street Lot
Adams Street
Map: 76 Lot: 43
0.50 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Adams Street Pump Station
Adams Street
Map: 69 Lot: 100B
0.31 Town of Lexington Pump Station Good Yes No No
Arcola Street Lot
Arcola Street
Map: 29 Lot: 59
0.09 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Avon Street Lot
Avon Street
Map: 79 Lot: 45A
1.00 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Banks Avenue Lot
Banks Avenue
Map: 13 Lot: 200
0.25 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Baskin Park
Wyman Road
Map: 83 Lots: 106, 107
(Recreation) and 106A
(Conservation)
Map: 78 Lot: 277 (Recreation)
12.28 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation Ballfield-Fair, Basketball Court-
Poor, Playground-Removed in
2003
Yes Partial Basketball, Playground, could
be a Baseball/Softball or
Soccer field
RS Protected
Bedford Street Lots
Bedford Street
Map: 83 Lot: 107
Map: 84 Lot: 106, 106A
0.26 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Bedford Street Strip
Bedford Street
Map: 78 Lot: 116
0.19 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Public Lands
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 2
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Belfry Hill
Clarke Street, Massachusetts
Avenue
Map: 49 Lots: 164A, 165, 166
3.08 Town of Lexington Historic Site, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes Partial No RS Protected
Bicentennial Drive Lots
Bicentennial Drive
Map: 34 Lots: 181, 189
0.20 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Blossom Park
Blossom Street
Map: 9 Lot: 143
3.37 Town of
Lexington/Rec. Dept.
Passive Recreation Good Yes Partial No RS Protected
Blossomcrest Road Lots
Blossomcrest Road
Map: 16 Lot: 36B, 62A
Map: 9 Lot: 198
0.31 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Boston Edison ROW
Turning Mill Road
Map: 86 Lot: 23
6.00 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Bowman Park
Watertown Street
Map: 8 Lot: 67
3.91 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Conservation; Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes No No RS Protected
Bowman Park
Pleasant Street
Map: 8 Lot: 31B
1.16 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Poor Yes No No RS Perpetuity Self Help
Bowman School Athletic Fields
Philip Road
Map: 15 Lot: 45B
15.43 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation & School Ballfield-Good Yes Partial Baseball, Playground, Softball RS No
Brandon Street Strip
Brandon Street
Map: 21 Lot: 24A
0.002 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Bridge School Athletic Fields
55 Middleby Road
Map: 33 Lot: 143
30.25 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation & School Good Yes Partial Baseball, Softball, T-Ball,
Ultimate Frisbee
RS No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 3
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Bridge Street Lot
Bridge Street
Map: 24 Lot: 60
0.29 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Brook Street Lot
Brook Street
Map: 79 Lot: 26
0.01 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Brook Street Lot
Brook Street
Map: 79 Lot: 36
0.14 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Brookside Avenue Lots
Brookside Avenue, Stedman
Road
Map: 24 Lot: 76, 77
3.99 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Brookhaven
Waltham Street
Map: 5 Lot: 18A
3.26 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Brown Homestead
Howard Munroe Place
Map: 47 Lots: 164J
6.16 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Buckman Tavern
1875 Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 49 Lot: 4A
2.50 Town of Lexington Historic Site, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes No No
Burlington Strip
Burlington Street
Map: 82,86, 89, 91 Lots: multiple
9.16 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Busa Farm
Lowell Street
Map: 20 Lots: 38, 40A, 43
7.93 Town of Lexington Agriculture Good Yes No No
Butterfield Conservation Area
Butterfield Road
Map: 38 Lot: 137, 141
19.38 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Cambridge/Concord
Cambridge/Concord
Map: 10 Lot: 48
0.52 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Carmel Circle Lot
Carmel Circle
Map: 50 Lot: 240
0.37 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 4
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Cary Memorial Library
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 49 Lots: 71, 72, 77, 78
2.64 Town of Lexington Public Library Good Yes No No
Cataldo-Hartwell
Hartwell Avenue
Map: 80 Lot: 2
14.50 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes Trails No
Cemeteries
East Lexington (Map: 21 Lot: 7),
Old Burying Ground (Map: 57
Lot: 5),
Westview (Map: 85 Lot: 9 and
Map: 84 Lot: 82)
Munroe Cemetery (Map: 48 Lot:
277)
58.77 Town of
Lexington/DPW
Cemetery Good Yes Yes No No
Center Recreation Complex
Worthen Road, Waltham Street
Map: 49 Lot: 90
56.46 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation & School Ballfields-Excellent, Basketball
Courts-Excellent, Tennis
Courts-Very Good, Playground-
Very Good, Skate Park-
Excellent, Town Pool-Good
Yes
(Pool is
Fee-
based)
Yes Baseball, Softball, Basketball,
Field Hockey, Football,
Lacrosse, Playground,
Skateboarding, Soccer,
Swimming, Tennis, Track &
Field, Ultimate Frisbee,
Walking, Running
RS No
Chiesa Farm
Adams Street
Map: 63, 70 Lots: multiple
25.09 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation, Horse
Pasture
Good Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Clarke Middle School Athletic
Fields/Tennis Courts
17 Stedman Road
Map: 32 Lot: 177C
20.00 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation & School Ballfields-Fair/Good
Tennis Courts-Fair
Yes Partial Baseball, Field Hockey, Soccer,
Softball, Ultimate Frisbee,
Cricket
RO No
Comee Conservation
Butterfield Road
Map: 46 Lot: 136
10.29 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Concord Avenue
(behind # 430)
Concord Avenue
Map: 6 Lot: 1
12.00 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 5
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Concord Avenue @ Met State
Concord Avenue
Maps: 1, 4, 10 Lots: 1B; 1A, 12;
26A
31.69 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO/ND Perpetuity
Cotton Farm
Marrett Road
Map: 31 Lot: 90D
4.20 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes Trails Perpetuity
Countryside
Lowell and Woburn Street
Map: 46 Lots: 28, 31
0.78 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes Partial No RO No
Cranberry Hill
off Marrett Rd., off Lincoln St.
Map: 44 Lots: 3A, 4
23.43 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Daisy Wilson Meadowland
Moreland Ave., Follen St.
Map: 14 Lots: 111E
8.00 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Poor Yes No No RS Perpetuity Self Help
Denver Street Lots
Denver Street
Map: 58 Lots: 187A, 187B
0.28 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Depot Parking Lot
Meriam Street
Map: 49 Lot: 5A
2.66 Town of Lexington Parking Good Yes No No
Diamond Middle School
Athletic Fields
Sedge Road
Map: 71 Lot: 305A
34.57 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation & School Good Yes Partial Baseball, Field Hockey, Soccer,
Softball, Ultimate Frisbee
RO No
Downing Road Island
Downing Road
Map: 33 Lot: 150A
0.05 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Dunback Meadow
Marrett Rd., Allen St.
Map: 9, 15, 23, 31, 32 Lots:
multiple
159.17 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation,
Community
Gardening
Good Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help, DCR
Recreational Trails
Grant
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 6
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
East Lexington Fire House
998 Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 30 Lot: 81
0.22 Town of Lexington Public Facility Good Yes No No
East Lexington Library
735 Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 22 Lot: 52
0.38 Town of Lexington Public Library Good Yes No No
East Street Lot
East Street
Map: 62 Lot: 16
0.24 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Edison Way Lot
Edison Way
Map: 48 Lot: 103
0.78 Town of Lexington Parking Good Yes No No
Emery Park (Depot Square)
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 49 Lot: 11
0.37 Town of Lexington Public Facility Good Yes No No
Estabrook School Athletic
Fields
117 Grove Street
Map: 83 Lot: 130
7.50 School Dept./Rec.
Dept.
Recreation & School Excellent Yes Yes Baseball, Soccer, Softball, T-
Ball
RO No
Estabrook School Access
Grove Street
Map: 87 Lot: 18
0.19 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Fairfield Drive Circle
Fairfield Drive
Map: 55 Lot: 106
0.30 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Fairland Lot
Fairland Street
Map: 42 Lot: 199
0.11 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Fire Department HQ
45 Bedford Street
Map: 57 Lot: 144
1.39 Town of Lexington Public Facility Good Yes No No
Fiske School Athletic Fields
34A Colony Road
Map: 63 Lot: 139
10.61 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation & School Good Yes Yes Baseball, Softball RO No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 7
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Franklin Park
3 Stedman Road
Map: 24 Lot: 83A
7.07 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation Ballfield-Good
Playground-Fair (majority of
equipment has been
removed)
Yes Partial Baseball, Playground, Soccer,
Softball
RO Protected
Frasca Land
Waltham Street
Map: 24 Lot: 75
0.81 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Freemont Street Play Site
Freemont Street
Map: 58 Lot: 262
12.50 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Passive Recreation Fair Yes No No RS Protected
Garfield Park
Hickory Street
Map: 65 Lots: 150-156
Map: 72 Lots: 57-62
1.24 Rec. & Community
Programs
Active Recreation Ballfield - Good
Playground - Excellent
Yes Yes Baseball, Playground RS Protected
Goodwin Parcel (Katahdin
Woods)
Hartwell Avenue
Map: 73 Lots: 8
10.70 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No Perpetuity
Goodwin Parcel (Meagherville)
Cedar Street
Map: 73 Lots: 6a
9.50 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No Perpetuity CPA Funds
Grandview Avenue Lots
Grandview Avenue
Map: 51 Lots: 14A, 14B
Map: 50 Lots: 92, 94
0.45 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Granger Pond
Granger Pond West
Map: 75 Lot: 6D
1.52 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Grant Place Lot
Grant Place
Map: 48 Lot: 106
0.05 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Grant Street Lot
Grant Street
Map: 55 Lot: 45B
0.38 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Grapevine Avenue Lot
Grapevin Avenue
Map: 32 Lot: 50
0.13 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 8
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Hammer Hill
Hancock Street
Map: 62 Lot: 127A
0.86 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Hancock-Clark House
36 Hancock Street
Map: 56 Lot: 39B
0.72 Town of
Lexington/Historical
Society
Historic Site/Open
Space
Good Yes No No
Hanson Avenue Lot
Hanson Avenue
Map: 9 Lot: 92
0.11 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Harrington School Athletic
Fields
Lowell Street
Map: 38 Lot: 21
Map: 46 Lot: 99
16.69 School Dept./Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation & School Good Yes Partial Baseball, Soccer, Softball,
Ultimate Frisbee
RO No
Harrington School Woods
Solomon Pierce, Maple Street
Map: 46 Lots: 131, 113A
27.97 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Hartwell Avenue Lot
Hartwell Avenue
Map: 80 Lot: 3
4.10 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No CM Perpetuity
Hastings Park
Massachusetts Ave
Map: 49 Lot: 182
3.77 Town of
Lexington/Town
Manager
Passive Recreation Good Yes Partial No RS Protected
Hastings Sanctuary
Massachusetts Ave
Map: 50 Lot: 214A
1.62 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No RS Perpetuity Self Help
Hastings School Athletic Fields
7 Crosby Road
Map: 51 Lot: 45A
14.27 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation & School Good Yes Partial Baseball, Soccer, Softball RS No
Hayden Woods
Waltham St., Valleyfield St.
Map: 16, 17, 24 Lots: multiple
101.88 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes Potential No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 9
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Hennessy Field
Robinson Road
Map: 86 Lot: 1
10.00 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes Potential No RO Perpetuity
Hobbs Brook
Cambridge Reservoir
Map: 19 Lot: 2
1.40 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Idylwilde
Lincoln St. & Middle St.
Map: 34 Lots: 124A, 164
11.70 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation,
Community
Gardening
Good Yes No No RS Perpetuity Self Help
Ivan Street Lot
Ivan Street
Map:84 Lot: 19A, 20
1.22 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No ND Perpetuity Self Help
Ivy Lane Lot
Ivy Lane
Map: 9 Lots: 86A, 87A
0.83 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
James Street Lot
James Street
Map: 88 Lot: 57
1.04 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No Perpetuity
Jerry Cataldo Reservation
Bow St.
Map: 13 Lots: 421A
5.36 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Poor Yes No No RS Perpetuity
Joyce Miller's Meadow
Minuteman Bikeway
Map: 30 Lots: 83, 84, 104
9.98 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Juniper Hill
Concord Ave., Barberry Rd.
Map: 11 Lots: 96A, 98
26.84 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Justin Park
Justin Street
Map: 83 Lot: 99D
2.68 Conservation/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation and
Conservation
Ballfield-Fair
Playground-Good
Yes Partial No RO Protected
Justin/Bernard
Justin St.
Map: 83 Lots: multiple
19.29 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Active
& Passive Recreation
Good Yes Potential Yes RO Perpetuity Self Help
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 10
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Katahdin Woods
Wood St., Cedar St., Hartwell
Ave., Bates rd.
Map: 73, 66 Lots: multiple
46.30 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Kimball Road Lot
Kimball Road
Map: 65 Lot: 38
0.11 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Kinneens Park
Burlington Street
Map: 77 Lot: 46, 43A
6.25 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation Ballfield-Fair
Playground-Very Good
Yes Partial Playground, T-Ball RO Protected
Laconia Street
Laconia Street
Map: 54 Lots: multiple
12.95 Town of Lexington/
School Department
School/Open Space Good No No No RO No
Lexington Battle Green
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 49 Lots: 3
2.54 Town of Lexington/
Town Manager
Historic Site Good Yes Yes No RS Protected
Lexington Community Center
Marrett Road
Map: 31 Lot: 63D
9.94 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Lexington
Community Center
(under construction)
Excellent Yes Yes No Perpetuity
Lexington Old Reservoir
Marrett Road
Map: 33 Lots: 99 & 100
9.44 Town of Lexington/
Rec. & Community
Programs
Recreation Fair/Good Fee-based Partial Fishing, Kayaking, Swimming,
Walking
RS Protected
Liberty Heights
Hillside Ave., Bowker St., Clelland
Rd., Ann St.
Map:13 Lots: multiple
5.64 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes No No RS Perpetuity Self Help
Lillian Road
Lillian Road
Map: 29 Lots: 1A, 8
1.43 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RS Perpetuity
Lincoln Park
Lincoln St., Middleby Rd.
Map: 42 Lots: 1 & 16
39.80 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation Ballfields-Excellent
Playground-Excellent
Fitness Path-Excellent
Yes Yes Baseball, Field Hockey,
Lacrosse, Playground, Soccer,
Softball, Walking, Running
RS Protected
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 11
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Lowell Street Lots
Lowell Street
Map: 75 Lot: 10
Map: 68 Lot: 44
3.36 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Lower Vine Brook
Grant St., Webb St., East Emerson
Rd., Vine St.
Map: 47, 48, 55, 62 Lots: multiple
104.64 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help, DCR
Recreational Trails
Grant
Maple Street
Maple Street
Map: 38 Lots: 4A, 7A
0.98 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No RO Perpetuity
Marrett Road Lots
Marrett Road
Map: 32 Lot: 60
Map: 33 Lot: 90
0.59 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Marvin Park
Winter Street
Map: 90 Lot: 32
8.00 Town of Lexington/
Rec. Dept.
Recreation Ballfield-Good
Playground-Fair
Basketball Court-Fair
Yes Partial Playground, Baseball, Softball,
or Soccer field
RO Protected
Marvin Street
Marvin St., Carriage Dr.
Map: 90 Lots: multiple
1.14 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No Perpetuity
Massachusetts Avenue Lot
Massachusetts Ave.
Map: 14 Lot: 46
0.24 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Meagherville
Garfield St., Cedar St.
Map: 65, 66, 72, 73, 79 Lots:
multiple
70.18 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes Potential No RS Perpetuity DCR Recreational
Trails Grant
Meagherville
Garfield St., Cedar St.
Map: 65 Lots: multiple
1.10 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Minuteman to Monroe
Connector
Massachusetts Ave.
Map: 39 Lot: 64B
0.06 Town of Lexington Recreation and
Conservation
Good No No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 12
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Municipal Parking Lot
Massachusetts Ave.
Map: 49 Lot: 183
1.19 Town of Lexington Parking Good Yes
Munroe Park
1403 Massachusetts Ave
Map: 39 Lot: 62
1.58 Town of
Lexington/Rec. &
Community Programs
Recreation Ballfield-Fair
Playground-removed except
for swing set
Yes Partial Playground, T-Ball RS Protected
Muzzey Field
Massachusetts Ave
Map: 48 Lot: 276B
1.06 Town of Lexington/
Rec. & Community
Programs
Recreation Fair/Good Yes Partial Soccer RS Protected
Muzzey Street Lot
Muzzey Street
Map: 49 Lot: 55
0.24 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
North Street Sand Pits
North St., Emerson Rd.
Map: 68 Lot: 45
Map: 69 Lots: 24, 99
Map: 75 Lot: 31
27.48 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Off Spring Street
Spring Street
Map: 25 Lot: 166
0.31 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Orchard Lane Lot
Orchard Lane
Map: 29 Lot: 82
3.69 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Outlook Drive Lot
Outlook Drive
Map: 41 Lot: 46
0.10 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Oxbow Street Lot
Oxbow Street
Map: 59 Lot: 137B
0.19 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No RS Protected
Oxford/Bow Street Park
Bow Street
Map: 13 Lots: 382 & 410
0.39 Town of Lexington/
Rec. & Community
Programs
Recreation Fair Yes No Swing Set, Picnic, Walking RS Protected
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 13
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Paint Mine
Grove St., Robinson Rd., Turning
Mill Rd.
Map: 86, 87 Lots: multiple
35.49 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Parker Meadow
Revere St. @ Minuteman
Bikeway
Map: 56, 64 Lots: multiple
17.66 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes Potential No RS Perpetuity Self help
Parker School Land/Valley
Tennis Courts
Valley Road
Map 72, Lots 427, 429-433, 521
Map 78, Lots 118-124
5.15 Conservation
Commission/Rec. &
Community Programs
Conservation (1.93
acres), Recreation
(3.22 acres)
Tennis Courts-Very Good Yes Partial Tennis RS Perpetuity
Partrtidge Road Lot
Partridge Road
Map: 82 Lot: 65B
0.20 Town of Lexington Good No No
Peacock Farm Road Lot
Peacock Farm Road
Map: 7 Lot: 77
0.14 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Pheasant Brook Pond/Open
Space
Howard Munroe Place, Woburn
Street
Map: 47 Lots: 164K, 175, 170
6.15 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Philbrook Terrace/Grassland
Street
Grassland Street
Map: 25 Lot: 265
Map: 24 Lots: multiple
4.09 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No Perpetuity
Pine Meadows Golf Club
255 Cedar Street
Map: 66 Lot: 63
87.88 Town of Lexington/
Rec. & Community
Programs
Recreation Excellent Fee-based Partial Golf RS Protected
Pleasant Street Lots
Massachusetts Ave.,
Cambridge/Concord, Pleasant St.
Map: 22 Lot: 64
Map: 8 Lots: 45, 47
0.44 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 14
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Poor Farm
Hill St. @ Cedar St.
Map: 58 Lots: 19A
11.60 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes No No RS Perpetuity
Poplar Street
Highland St., Poplar St., Garfield
St.
Map: 72 Lots: 491, 492, 502, 503
1.87 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RS Perpetuity
Prospect Hill Island
Prospect Hill Rd
Map: 33 Lot: 247
0.03 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Public Facilities Building
201 Bedford Street
Map: 64 Lot: 69
9.60 Town of Lexington Public Facility Good Yes No No
Rangeway Lot
18 Rangeway Road
Map: 90 Lot: 64
1.43 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Revere Street Lot
Revere Street
Map: 64 Lot: 102D
0.36 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Rindge Park
Rindge Avenue
Map: 20 Lot: 61-64
0.65 Town of Lexington/
Rec. & Community
Programs
Recreation Ballfield-Fair/Good
Playground-Good
Basketball Court-Fair
Yes Partial Basketball, Playground, T-Ball RS Protected
Robinson Road Lots
Robinson Road
Map: 82 Lots: 9, 19, 20
0.55 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Rockville Avenue Lot
Rochville Ave.
Map: 15 Lot: 19
0.11 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Route 2 Ramp
Off Hayden
Map: 17 Lot: 5B
0.29 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 15
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Sanderson Road Open Space
Sanderson Rd., Village Cir
Map: 37 Lot: 172
Map: 38 Lots: multiple
10.45 Town of Lexington
DPW
Conservation Good Yes No No
Scott Road Lot
Scott Road
Map: 5 Lot: 39
3.79 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Scott Road Lot
Scott Road
Map: 5 Lot: 38
0.11 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Shaker Glen
Rolfe Road
Map: 54 Lots: 92C
16.79 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes No Yes RO Perpetuity Self Help
Sickle Brook
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 21 Lot: 3A
1.05 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RS Perpetuity
Sickle Brook
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 21 Lot: 5B
1.10 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Simonds Brook
Grove St.
Map: 83, 87 Lots: multiple
58.51 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Poor Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Strip new Hillcrest
Winship Road
Map: 21 Lot: 50
0.00 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Sutherland Park/Woods
(4.0 acres - Active Recreation; 20.9
acres - Conservation)
Sutherland Road
Map: 13 Lot: 107
24.90 Conservation/Rec. &
Community Programs
Passive and Active
Recreation
Ballfield-Excellent, Playground-
Good, Basketball Court-Poor
Yes Yes Baseball, Basketball,
Playground, Softball
RS Protected
Sutherland Park/Woods
Tarbell Ave.
Map: 13 Lot: 139
0.13 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 16
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Taft Ave (Sylvia St.)
Sylvia St.
Map: 13 Lot: 23
0.03 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Tophet Swamp
Minuteman Bikeway
Map: 79 Lot: 49
25.50 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No CM Perpetuity
Tower Park
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 39 Lot: 83, 82
Map: 30 Lot: 62
13.01 Town of Lexington/
Town Manager
Passive Recreation Good Yes Passive Recreation RO No
Tower Park
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 30 Lot: 37A
2.30 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Town Compost Facility
Hartwell Avenue
Map: 79 Lot: 50
67.50 Town of Lexington Landfill Good Yes No CM No
Town Offices Complex
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 48 Lots: 169, 170A
5.22 Town of Lexington Public Facility Good Yes No No
Turning Mill
Grove St.
Map: 82, 83 Lots: multiple
9.65 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Poor Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Upper Vine Brook
Marrett Rd., Highland Ave.
Map: 31, 32 Lots: multiple
48.68 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No RS Perpetuity Self Help
Valley Field Play Area
Valleyfield St.
Map: 24 Lot: 24
0.37 Town of
Lexington/Rec. Dept.
Recreation Good Yes No No
Valley Road - Meagherville
Valley Road
Map: 78 Lot: 123
0.12 Conservation
Commission
Conservation/Recreati
on
Very Good Yes Partial No RS Perpetuity
Valleyfield Street
Valleyfield St.
Map: 24 Lot: 52
0.63 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 17
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Vine Brook Village
Winthrop Street
Map: 40 Lot: 232
6.80 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RS Perpetuity
Waltham Sreet Farm
Waltham Street
Map: 24 Lots: 68A, 69A, 132, 133
17.28 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Waltham Street Lot
Waltham Street
Map: 32 Lot: 12
0.20 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Water Tower
14 Morgan Road
Map: 50 Lot: 20
0.92 Town of Lexington Public Facility Good Yes No No
West Farm
Oak Street
Map: 14 Lots: multiple
12.76 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes Potential Yes RS Perpetuity Self Help
Whipple Hill
Winchester Dr., Summer St.
Map: 28, 36 Lots: multiple
120.48 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Good Yes No No RO Perpetuity Self Help
Willards Woods
North St., Brent Rd.,
Map: 70, 76, 77 Lots: multiple
96.04 Conservation
Commission
Conservation, Passive
Recreation
Fair Yes Potential Potential RO Perpetuity Self Help
Winshipp Ave
Zoar Ave
Map: 20 Lot: 172
0.002 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Woburn Street Lot
Woburn Street
Map: 47 Lot: 13
0.58 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No Perpetuity
Wood Street
Holton Road, Springdale Road,
Conestoga Road
Maps: 59, 67 Lots:multiple
16.93 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 18
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Wood Street
Wood Street
Map: 51 Lots: 82, 84
0.24 Town of Lexington Open Space Good Yes No No
Wood Street - Fiske Hill
Beaumont St.
Map: 59 Lots: nmultiple
3.19 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No Perpetuity
Woodland Bird Sanctuary
Colony Road
Map: 63 Lot: 131
7.22 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Fair No (due to
deed
restriction
)
No No RO Perpetuity
Wright Farm
Map: 91 Lot: 1A
12.6 Conservation
Commission
Conservation Good Yes No No Perpetuity
Total Town Owned
Public Lands:
2065.18
State Owned
Beaver Brook North (Lot 1)
Walnut Street
Map: 2 Lot: 1A
47.50 MA Dept of
Conservation and
Recreation
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Massachusetts National Guard
459 Bedford St.
Map: 84 Lot: 1C
4.10 Commonwealth of
Massachusetts
Other No
Massport
Hartwell Ave
Map: 80 Lot: 9
2.90 MA Port Authority Airfield No
Minuteman Commuter
Bikeway
Map: 48 Lot: 500
MBTA Recreation Yes
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 19
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Minuteman Regional High
School
758 Marrett Road
Map: 52 Lots: 1B, 7B, 8B
19.95 State of
Massachusetts/Minut
eman Regional HS
School Good RO
Various State Land 17.85 Commonwealth of
Massachusetts
Other No
Walnut Street Met State
Concord Avenue
Map: 1 Lot: 4
59.40 MA Dept of
Conservation and
Recreation
Conservation Fair Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Total State Owned
Public Lands:
100.09
Federally Owned
Hanscom Air Force Base
Wood Street
Maps: 67, 74 Lot: 29, 5
147.60 USA Research Center No No RO
Minuteman National Historic
Park
Route 2A- 750 total acres
100.12 Federal Government,
National Park Service
Passive Recreation Good Yes Yes No Perpetuity
US Postal Service
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 48 Lot: 168A
0.45 Federal Government Post Office Yes No
Westview Street Lot
Westveiw Street
Map: 85 Lot: 7
0.53 Federal Government Unknown No No
Total Federally Owned
Public Lands:
248.70
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 20
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Owned by Other Towns and Cities
Arlington Great Meadow
Massachusetts Avenue
Map: 30 Lot: 114
183.00 Town of Arlington Conservation Good Yes No RO Protected
Arlington Resevoir
Massachusetts Ave.
Map: 20 Lot: 37
14.37 Town of Arlington Conservation Yes No RO Protected
Cambridge Reservoir
Route 2 - 570 total acres
Map: 26 Lot: 49
Map: 27 Lot: 1, 2
Map: 35 Lot: 1, 5
Map 43 Lot 8
151.24 City of Cambridge Drinking water supply Yes No No RO Perpetuity
Cliffe Avenue
Cliffe Avenue
Map: 13 Lot: 383
2.36 Town of Arlington Conservation Good Yes No RS
Minuteman Bikeway 5 mile stretch
in Lexington
MBTA/Towns of
Arlington, Bedford,
Cambridge, and
Lexington
Recreation Good Yes Yes Bicycling, Cross-Country
Skiing, In-Line Skating,
Walking, Running
Total Public Lands Owned by
Other Towns and Cities:350.97
Total Public Open Space 2764.94 Acres
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 21
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Belmont Country Club
181 Winter Street
Map: 1 Lot: 2A
Map: 3 Lot: 2A
88.67 Belmont Country Club Golf Golf RO Chapter 61B
Belmont Country Club
Property
Oxbow Rd.
Map: 58 Lot: 50
0.41 Belmont Michael F &Recreation Chapter 61B
Cary Ave Open Space
Map: 34 Lot: 48C
0.55 Sheldon Corp.Private Open Space
Cider Mill Ln Open Space
Map: 78 Lot: 114T
2.58 Gelormini Joseph M
Trustee
Private Open Space
Conservation Restriction (CR),
various
268.53 Habitat
Elks Lodge
959 Waltham St.
Map: 5 Lot: 1
8.50 Lexington Lodge of
Elks
Other
Five Fields
Concord Ave.
Map: 10 Lot: 7
20.86 Rotberg Robert &
Lapides Murray Trs
Private Open Space
Five Fields Open Space
15 Barberry Road
Map: 11 Lot: 76
5.10 Christopher Hess Swimming Good No Swimming RO Chapter 61B
Granny Pond
Oakmount Cir
Map: 56 Lot: 182
2.75 Granny Pond Realty
Trust
Private Open Space
Grove Street OS Parcels
Dewey Rd.
Map: 87 Lots: 5D, 5E, 5F
0.85 Private Open Space
Hayden Recreation Centre
24 Lincoln Street
Map: 50 Lot: 1A
28.00 Estate of Josiah
Willard Hayden
Recreation Fee-Based Basketball, Gymnastics, Ice
Skating, Swimming, Weight
Training
RS
Private and Non-profit Lands
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 22
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Hayden Recreation Centre
Lincoln Street
Map: 50 Lot: 251A
0.69 Josiah Willard Hayden
Rec Center Inc.
Recreation Fee-Based
Journey's End Open Space
Shade St.
Map: 26 Lot: 45E
3.34 110 Shade Street LLC Private Open Space Protected
Justice Resource Institute
13 Pelham Road
Map: 31 Lot: 94
1.17 Concord Assabet
Family &
Other
Lowell Street
178 Lowell Street
Map: 37 Lot: 11A
8.19 178 Loweel Street LLC Open Space Protected
Lex K of C
177 Bedford St.
Map: 64 Lot: 75A
1.55 Lexington Council
#94
Other
Lexington Federal Credit
Union
3 Fletcher Ave
Map: 40 Lot: 200
0.13 Lexington Town
Employees Federal
Credit
Other
Lexington Golf Club
47 Hill Street
Map: 58 Lot: 27
66.50 Lexington Golf Club Recreation Fee-Based Golf RS Chapter 61B
Lexington Park Open Space
Boxwood Ln., Sullivan St.
Map: 90 Lot: 147I
Map: 88 Lot: 471
3.44 Lexington Park Trust Private Open Space
Lexington VFW
2 Hayes Ln.
Map: 48 Lot: 202
0.26 Lex. Veterans Of
Foreigh Wars
Other
Masonic Lodge
1 Bedford St.
Map: 56 Lot: 16
0.39 Lexington Masonic
Associates
Other
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 23
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
MIT
238 Wood St.
Map: 67 Lot: 28
42.50 MIT School
Moon Hill Open Space
Moon Hill Rd
Map: 14 Lots: 82, 87, 88
3.86 Six Moon Hill Inc.Private Open Space
Moon Hill Open Space
Moon Hill Rd
Map: 14 Lot: 150
0.36 Pleasant Brook Pool
Corp
Private Open Space
Old Smith Farm Open Space
Map: 59 Lots: 58G, 60M
2.38 Old Smith Farm
Condominium
Association
Private Open Space
Orchard Tennis Association
Map: 14 Lot: 79A
1.18 Orchard Tennis Assoc
Inc.
Tennis
Peacock Farm Association
Peacock Farm Road
Map: 7 Lots: 90, 91B, 92A
6.93 Peacock Farm
Association
Swimming Swimming RS Chapter 61B
Powerline (Katahdin Woods)
Wood St.
Map: 66 Lot: 67
4.00 Boston Edison Unitity
Sellars Lot 430
Concord Avenue
Map: 10 Lot: 8
0.29 John Sellars Agriculture No RO Chapter 61A
Stone Meadow Golf
675 Waltham Street
Map: 16 Lot: 9
21.60 John Carroll Recreation Fee-Based Golf RO Chapter 61B
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Page 24
Size (acres)Owner/
Manager Current Use Condition Public
Access ADA Accessible Recreation Potential Zoning
Protection
Status/Deed
Restrictions
Grants Received
Table 5-1 Inventory of Public and Private Open Space
Sun Valley OS
14 Fairlawn Ln
Map: 37 Lot: 92
5.00 Sun Valley Assoc Inc.Recreation
Wilson Farm
Pleasant Street
Map: 14 Lots: multiple
Map: 21 Lot: 2
Map: 22 Lot: 55
34.80 Wilson Farm, Inc. Agriculture Good No No RS
Wood Street
Map: 59 Lot: 66
4.5 Boston Edison Unitity Limited RO
Total Privately Owned Lands:639.83
Total Private Open Space 639.83 Acres
Total Public Open Space 2764.94
Total Private Open Space 639.83
Total Open Space:3404.77 acres
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
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Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Map 9
Open Space and Recreation Inventory
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
°0 0.5 10.25
Miles
Legend
Interstate
U.S. Highway
State Route
Water Bodies
Trails
Minuteman Commuter Bikeway
ACROSS Lexington Routes
Town Trails
Open Space and Recreation Areas
by Primary Purpose
Conservation
Recreation
Recreation and Conservation
Agriculture
Historical/Cultural
Habitat Protection
Water Supply Protection
Other
by Public Access
Yes
No
Limited
Wright Farm
Paint Mine
Minuteman National
Historic Park
Lower Vine Brook
Idylwilde
Hayden Woods
Dunback Meadow Busa
FarmGreat Meadow
Daisy
Wilson
Meadow
Tower
Park
Munroe
Cemetery
Upper Vine Brook
Cotton Farm
Marvin St.
Playground
Simond's
Brook
Estabrook
Elementary
School
Westview
Cemetery Justin St.
Playground
Baskin
Park
Turning
Mill Pond
Tophet
Swamp
Kinneens
Park Willard's Woods
Diamond
Middle School
Chiesa
Farm
Fiske
Elemenrary
School
North Street
Parker
Meadow
Valley Rd.
Tennis
Courts
Town Compost
Facility
Meagherville
Garfield St.
Park
Katahdin
Woods
Pine Meadows
Golf Club
Freemont St.
Open Space
Poor
Farm Old
Burying
Ground Battle
Green
Belfry Hill
Hastings
Park
Center
Recreation
Complex
Lexington
High School
Lincoln
Park
Bridge
Elementary
School
Old Reservoir
Minuteman Regional
High School
Hastings
Elementary
School
Cranberry
Hill
Hobbs Brook
Basin
Munroe
Park
Muzzey
Field
Shaker
Glen
Harrington
Elementary School
Whipple
Hill
Rindge
Park Arlington
Reservoir
Cataldo
Reservation
Oxford/Bow St.
ParkLiberty
Heights
Joyce Miller's
Meadow
Adams
ParkFranklin Park
Dunback Meadow
Bowman
Elementary School
West
Farm Sutherland
Park
Sutherland
Woods
Bowman
ParkBlossom St.
Park
Clarke
Middle School
Juniper
Hill
Cambridge
Reservoir
Beaver Brook North
Beaver Brook North
Important Open Space and Recreational Resources
This section provides narratives describing the most important open space and
recreational resources located in Lexington. They are presented in no particular
order.
ACROSS Lexington: The Rick Abrams Memorial Trail Network
ACROSS Lexington (Accessing Conservation land, Recreation areas, Open space,
Schools and Streets) is a project to develop a 40+ mile network of marked routes
throughout the town for the use of walkers, runners, and biking-trail users. Four
routes totaling over 17 miles have been completed to date. (See Map 9 Open Space and
Recreation Inventory). ACROSS Lexington routes use various existing public ways,
including conservation land trails and sidewalks. Routes connect the center of town
with various locations in the town including historic sites, schools and conservation
areas. Routes are accessible by foot or bicycle. The route system is intended to
encourage greater utilization of Lexington’s open space resources for passive
recreation. It will also connect Lexington with similar resources in adjacent towns.
Center Recreation Complex – 56.46 acres
The Center Recreation Complex is an
active and viable part of the Town,
centrally servicing the recreational
needs of the community. The facility
consists of two senior baseball fields
(one field is lighted), one lighted
softball field, one Little League
baseball field, a football stadium, one
multi-purpose field (used for soccer,
field events during track & field
meets, field hockey, and ultimate
frisbee), a track, the Gallagher Tennis
Courts (four of the ten courts are
lighted, which are used for tennis and
pickleball), three tennis practice
boards, a playground, a skate park,
the Irving H. Mabee Town Pool Complex, two lighted basketball courts, and a
restroom facility. Lexington residents and Lexington High School (physical education
classes and athletics games and practices) use the facility heavily. The Department of
Recreation and Community Programs, as well as other town organizations, regularly
5-31 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
has scheduled games and practices on all fields throughout the year. These activities
include baseball, basketball, field hockey, football, lacrosse, skateboarding, soccer,
softball, swimming, tennis, track & field, and ultimate frisbee. During the summer
months, tennis and swimming lessons, sports clinics, and camps are held here from
the middle of June through the end of August. All high school sports teams utilize
this facility for both practices and games. Although many organized activities take
place at the facility, much unorganized activity and play is often seen here. The
facility is managed by the Department of Recreation and Community Programs and
maintained by the Public Works Department.
In FY2010, a drainage study of the Center Recreation Complex was completed since
the entire area had been seriously impacted by poor drainage conditions for years.
The result was standing water, soft field areas, and reduced turf cover and quality
which led to unsafe and unusable playing conditions. As a result of the study, a
multi-phased capital improvement project, funded by the Community Preservation
Act (CPA), was implemented to improve the playing conditions of the fields at the
complex.
The two senior baseball fields are Center #1 and Center #3. Center #1 is the Lexington
High School varsity baseball field and has a batting cage behind the field. An outfield
fence separates this field from the Center #2 softball field during the spring and
summer. The outfield of Center #3 overlaps the football field. Lights were installed at
Center #1 in 1997 through private fundraising. In 1998, an irrigation system was built
into the infield and new benches were installed at Center #1. That same year, a new
computerized lighting system for Center #1 and the Center #2 softball field was
installed. Dugouts were installed in 2002. Center #1 was reconstructed and a new
drainage system was installed in 2011. Center #3 was reconstructed and a new
drainage system was installed in 2013.
The softball field is Center #2. This field has a skinned dirt infield and is in good
condition. Lighting was installed at Center #2 in 1985. A new backstop was installed
in 2000 and dugouts were installed in 2004. Center #2 was reconstructed and a new
drainage system was installed in 2011.
The Little League baseball field is called the William P. Fitzgerald Field (also known
as Center #4). The field is in excellent condition. A new backstop was installed in
2000. The infield was reconstructed with a new drainage system and a new outfield
fence was installed, which resulted in extending the length of the outfield, in 2014.
The Dr. Harold Crumb football stadium has two permanent yellow goal posts, one
scoreboard, fully-accessible permanent bleachers with an announcer’s box, and a
concession stand. In 1991, it was regraded and set with new sod. The bleachers and
press box were installed in 2001. The football field was completely reconstructed with
5-32 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
a new drainage system in 2013. The renovation of the Worthen Road practice field is
scheduled to be completed in 2015.
The Center Track multi-purpose field is used for a variety of sports, including soccer,
field hockey, ultimate frisbee, and field events during track & field meets. This field
was completed in 1984. In 2013, the field was reconstructed, a new drainage system
was installed, and the irrigation system was extended for additional grass coverage.
An all-weather 400-meter six-lane track was constructed in 1983 with funding that
was appropriated at the 1982 Town Meeting. The track is made of an all-weather
rubber surface and is blue with yellow writing. The track was resurfaced in 2003 and
again in 2012. The Department of Recreation and Community Programs and Parks
Department perform repair work on the track as part of its ongoing maintenance.
The Gallagher Tennis Courts consist of ten tennis courts. Courts #1 through #4 are lit.
Funding for the lighting was appropriated in 1970. In 2001, the tennis courts were
completely reconstructed and new fencing was installed. High school tennis matches
and tournaments are held here, as well as tennis lessons for children and adults and
pickleball programs offered by the Department of Recreation and Community
Programs. The tennis courts can also be reserved through the Department of
Recreation and Community Programs. A tennis practice board exists at the end of the
courts and three new tennis practice boards were installed at the Park Drive end of
the courts in 2007. The tennis courts are scheduled to be resurfaced in September
2015.
The Center Playground was initially built in 1989. The structure was made of wood.
Over the years, it was exposed to the harsh elements of New England weather and the
wood began to crack and splinter. Over this same period of time, there were
numerous, significant changes and revisions to playground safety standards and
guidelines. As a result, the wooden structure had several non-compliant components.
A new structure for children ages 2-5 was installed in 2002 and the wooden
playground was replaced with a fully-compliant play structure for children ages 5-12
in Fall 2006. Offering more activities than the wooden structure, the new structure
offers areas for imaginative play both on and under the structure. The structure is
accessible to children with mobility issues and provides activities for children who
may have hearing or vision impairments. The structure also has a number of
components designed to provide physical fitness activities, such as climbing walls
and a rock climber, and open areas for free play within the safety-surfaced perimeter
of the area. There are also three large swing sets, including a handicapped accessible
swing, at the playground. The bathroom facility at the complex, located on Park
Drive near the playground, was renovated in 2010.
The Skate Park was constructed in 2003. The initial funding for the Skate Park was a
public/private partnership between the Town and a private skate park committee.
5-33 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
The park is a fenced-in area that contains several skateboarding apparatus (ramps,
grind rails, grind wall) and since it was built, this facility has been used extensively by
the youth in the community. Brand new equipment was installed as part of a capital
improvement project at the Skate Park in 2014.
The Irving H. Mabee Town Pool Complex consists of four pools and a bathhouse. The
four pools are: the Wading Pool, the Garrity Pool (instructional), the 25-meter Lap
Pool, and a Diving Pool with two 1-meter diving boards and one 3-meter diving
board. The bathhouse has men’s and women’s restrooms and locker rooms with
showers, a staff room with first aid equipment, office, filter room, and Tennis Booth.
The current pool complex was renovated with an addition from 1978-1980. The
Department of Recreation and Community Programs offers many programs including
American Red Cross swim lessons, public swim, aqua-aerobics, swim team, lifeguard
training, and adult lap swim. Extensive work was done on the electrical and
plumbing systems in the bathroom facilities and on the pool decking in 1994. In 1997,
all four pools were re-marcited and dewatering wells were installed. In 2001, two
shade structures were installed at the complex and in 2002, three new diving boards
were purchased. These diving boards were refinished in 2009.
In 2007-2008, a pool facility audit was completed. The audit examined the bathhouse,
each of the swimming pools, and the site amenities such as pool decks and fencing.
Included in the report were several recommendations for the Department of
Recreation and Community Programs to consider in an effort to maintain the safety of
all patrons. Based on the findings of the audit, a multi-phased program of
renovations to the Town Pool Complex was created. Phase 1 renovations included
replacing the ventilation and exhaust system, replacing the skylights on the roof, and
addressing ADA compliance and safety issues. This work was completed in 2011.
Phase 2 renovations were completed in 2012. This included interior repairs and
renovations to address and provide energy and environmental efficiencies to the
complex, including replacement of the toilets, showers, and sinks in the men’s and
women’s locker rooms with more efficient, water conservation systems. A new hot
water heater was installed in 2013. Phase 3 of the project, which is scheduled for 2018,
will include replacing the filtration systems, which are beyond their life expectancy,
and will require a larger filter room.
The Center Basketball courts consist of two full courts and seven basketball hoops.
The courts are lit and are well used by the community for countless pick-up games
throughout the year. It is also the site of the Department of Recreation and
Community Programs’ youth basketball camps and clinics during the summer. In
1982, four new backboards and rims were installed. The courts were resurfaced in
1987 and they were completely reconstructed, including new basketball hoops and
improved drainage, in 2010.
5-34 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
Clarke Middle School – 20.00 acres
The athletic facilities at the Clarke
Middle School include one senior
baseball field, one softball field, one
full-size multi-purpose field (used for
soccer, ultimate frisbee, and cricket),
one ¾-size multi-purpose field (used
for field hockey, lacrosse, and
ultimate frisbee), and three tennis
courts. Lexington residents and
Clarke Middle School (physical
education classes and athletics games
and practices) use the facility heavily.
The Department of Recreation and
Community Programs, as well as
other town organizations, regularly
has scheduled games and practices on all fields throughout the year. These activities
include baseball, cricket, field hockey, soccer, softball, tennis, and ultimate frisbee.
During the summer months, sports clinics are held here throughout the summer. The
Clarke Middle School sports teams utilize this facility for both practices and games.
The outdoor athletic facilities at the Clarke Middle School are managed by the
Department of Recreation and Community Programs and maintained by the Public
Works Department.
In 2002, a significant capital improvement project was completed at Clarke. The
project included renovating the baseball and softball fields and replacing the backstop
at each field, reconstructing the full-size multi-purpose field, which included the
installation of perimeter drains and an irrigation system, and the reconstruction and
reorientation of the three tennis courts. In 2012, the irrigation system was extended to
include the outfield of the baseball and softball fields. The two capital improvement
projects at Clarke that are scheduled to be completed in 2015 are the renovation of the
full-size multi-purpose field and the resurfacing of the tennis courts.
5-35 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
Cotton Farm/Upper Vine Brook – 52.88 acres, 0.4 miles of trails
Most of Upper Vine Brook -
Cotton Farm is wetland, but the
eastern side of the area is
accessible by a trail running
from Highland Avenue to a
driveway that exits onto
Marrett Road. Across Marrett
Road, a trail connection to
Dunback Meadow picks up
and ties into two additional
miles of trail. There is a small
picnic area near the pond at the
Marrett Road entrance to
Upper Vine Brook - Cotton
Farm. An apple orchard sits along the front of the property on Marrett Road. Because
the eastern portion of this conservation area was just acquired in 2010, ongoing
changes should be expected in the upcoming years as the Conservation Commission
implements its land management plan for the property.
The wetlands to the west of the trail serve as headwaters for Vine Brook, Lexington’s
largest stream. In 1874, this wetland was slated to be drained, but the project fell
through due to legal issues. Today, the wetlands provide important wildlife and plant
habitat, storage for stormwater run-off, and natural water purification.
The eastern portion of the property, where the trail enters from Marrett Road, is
known as Cotton Farm - an old family name rather than an indication of what was
grown here. In 2010, the Conservation Commission acquired this 4.2 acre parcel from
the Cataldo family through the Community Preservation Act. Much of the rest of
Upper Vine Brook - Cotton Farm was protected as conservation land in the mid to late
1970’s. A parcel near the Highland Avenue entry was considered as a school site but
was transferred to the Conservation Commission in 2003.
5-36 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
Dunback Meadow – 159.17 acres
The largest of Lexington’s
conservation areas,
Dunback Meadow also
serves as one of the town’s
prime bird-watching
locations. With a large, wet
meadow dominating the site
and an old red and white
pine plantation on the
southwestern corner,
Dunback Meadow attracts
warblers and grassland
birds not found widely
otherwise in Lexington,
impressive woodcock
displays in the spring, and a
variety of owls and other raptors. A number of organizations from outside of
Lexington lead bird walks at Dunback Meadow throughout the year. A trail that
crosses the Dunback Meadow property links Clarke Middle School and Bowman
Elementary School, providing students with a natural walkway to class, including a ¼
mile section of boardwalk. A new trail was recently constructed to connect Bowman
Elementary School to the Blossomcrest Road neighborhood, offering students a
naturally scenic 500 foot route to school in place of a 1.5 walk on the road or a 3.4 mile
drive. The southwestern side of the property hosts a community garden that is
coordinated by volunteers.
Hayden Woods – 101.88 acres
As the second largest
conservation area in Lexington,
Hayden Woods encompasses a
significant swath of contiguous
forest within the town. In the
past, Hayden Woods was home
to farmland, pasture, an orchard,
a woodlot, a dairy, and a rifle
range, and it was also the desired
site for what is now the
Burlington Mall. The
Conservation Commission
purchased Hayden Woods in
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pieces from 1961 to 1981 in a deal that allowed for commercial development to take
place on the south side of the property. Today, red maple swamps dominate the
lower areas of Hayden Woods, with pines, oaks, and hickories dominating as the
elevation rises. The western edge of the property is bordered by Old Shade Street, a
historic cart path that was laid out in 1660 and today exists in the form of a wide,
rocky path tucked into the forest. Old Shade Street and the other trails that run
throughout Hayden Woods provide visitors with hiking, bicycling, and cross-country
skiing opportunities. Neighbors in the abutting commercial parks often contribute
funds and volunteer time towards land management projects in Hayden Woods.
Jack Eddison/Minuteman Bikeway – 5.5 miles in Lexington
The Minuteman Bikeway, a converted Boston and Maine Railroad corridor, was
completed in 1992 after more than 20 years of planning and construction. The
Minuteman Bikeway is 10.1 miles long, with the section in Lexington being 5.5 miles.
The bikeway begins in Cambridge (at the Arlington border near the Alewife MBTA
Station), passes through Arlington and Lexington, and ends in Bedford at the Bedford
Depot. In 1992, the five-mile section that runs through Lexington was renamed the
Jack Eddison/Minuteman Bikeway in recognition of the former selectman who served
many years and worked to champion the bikeway project. In 2008, the Minuteman
Bikeway was named as the fifth inductee into the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Rail-
Trail Hall of Fame. It is estimated that between cyclists, joggers, skateboarders, baby
strollers, and dog walkers, the bikeway has hundreds of thousands of users each year.
The bikeway travels through commercial, industrial, and residential areas and open
spaces. In addition to being a popular commuter bike route (with one endpoint near
the Alewife MBTA Station in Cambridge), the bikeway is a linear park that connects
significant historical sites and attractions as well as many conservation areas and park
lands in Arlington, Lexington, and Bedford. The section of the bikeway in Lexington
has been plowed since 2008 (Arlington and Bedford plow the path as well). The
plowing of the bikeway is managed by the Bicycle Advisory Committee with the
Friends of Lexington Bikeways raising the funding needed for the plowing. Over the
past several years, the Department of Public Works has done considerable work on
the bikeway to address drainage problems, fix root problems, and repaving major
sections of the bikeway has begun.
The bike committee in Arlington, Lexington, and Bedford wrote a grant to
commission the work of a consultant to make preliminary recommendations for major
wayfinding and amenity improvements to the bikeway. A concern that needs to be
addressed is the continuing increase in the number of users. The bikeway is so
popular that it runs the risk of being too popular, especially on the weekends. Based
on the consultant’s findings, one recommendation is to widen the bikeway, but that
would be prohibitively expensive. One alternative worth considering would be to put
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stone dust walking paths on both sides of the bikeway, where possible. Another issue
with the bikeway that needs to be addressed is safety, particularly concerns about the
intersection crossings and proper passing.
Katahdin Woods – 46.30 acres
Sitting just to the west of Route 95,
Katahdin Woods is at the center of the West
Lexington Greenway, a semi-contiguous
corridor of open space approximately five
miles in length, lying west of Route
128/Interstate 95, and extending from
Lincoln Street and the City of Cambridge
Reservoir in the southern part of town
northward to Turning Mill Road at the
Burlington line. The Town is currently
working with consultants, NSTAR, and the
community in the design phase of the West
Lexington Greenway. Katahdin Woods also
includes a number of other trails leading
through a dry, beech-pine forest and along
wetlands. The open power line area affords
excellent raptor-watching opportunities for
visitors.
Lexington Community Center – 9.94 acres
In 2013, the Town purchased the
site that will become the
Lexington Community Center.
At Special Town Meeting on
March 18, 2013, Town Meeting
approved the purchase of the
Scottish Rite of Free Masonry
property at 39 Marrett Road.
The Town completed the
purchase of this property on
December 5, 2013.
The community is eagerly awaiting the opening of the Lexington Community Center
as it will be a multi-generational facility that is inclusive, welcoming, and have state-
5-39 Chapter 5 – OSR Inventory September 2015
of-the art, well-rounded programs, socialization opportunities, activities, and special
events for residents of all ages and abilities.
The Lexington Community Center will serve as the home of the Human Services
Department and the Department of Recreation and Community Programs. These
departments are excited about the potential opportunities that the Lexington
Community Center will have for the residents of Lexington and are looking forward
to the new challenges, innovations, partnerships, and collaborations that will arise as
the community moves towards creating this multi-generational, all-inclusive facility
with program offerings for all residents once the facility is fully operational. The
Lexington Community Center is scheduled to open in late Spring 2015.
Lexington Reservoir (“Old Res”) – 9.44 acres
This Town-owned pond is administered by the
Department of Recreation and Community
Programs and is maintained by the Public Works
Department, with funding from the Recreation and
Community Programs Enterprise Fund. One
section of the Old Res is roped off for swimming
purposes. This area is divided into two swimming
areas; one is roped off for younger children and is
located directly off the beach. The other is past the
first rope and is for more proficient swimmers who
can swim in deeper water. This swimming facility
is staffed by the Recreation Division of the
Department of Recreation and Community Programs from early June through mid-
August and contains a bathhouse with men’s and women’s bathrooms, showers, and
first aid facilities. The water quality is tested in the swimming areas every week
during the summer season to ensure safe swimming. The Town contracts with an
aquatic management through the Health Department each year to treat the Old Res
for nuisance vegetation.
Any Lexington resident or non-resident can use the Old Res if they purchase a swim
tag or pay the daily fee. The area outside of the Old Res is a picnic area with picnic
tables. Programs offered by the Department of Recreation and Community Programs
in the summer, as well as other family and group outings (Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts)
from the spring through the fall, utilize this area. Nature trails also wrap around the
perimeter of the Old Res. These trails are used extensively year-round by the
community for walking. The water is stocked with fish in the late spring by the
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to allow for the community to fish.
In the winter months, the community uses the facility for ice skating.
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The Old Res was a water supply in the 19th century and the total water area is
approximately four acres, with 700 linear feet of sandy beach, 50 to 70 feet wide. A
gate was installed at the service entrance to the Old Res behind the Bridge School to
curb vandalism and prevent vehicles from using the walking path. The Old Res was
drained in the fall of 1982, the bottom was scraped, a deep well was dug, and new
sand was added to the swimming and beach area. In 2000, a handicap ramp was
installed to make the swimming area and bathhouse fully accessible from the outside
gate. A shade structure was erected in 2003. In 2007, a water quality study of the Old
Reservoir was completed. The study showed that the only major source for bacteria
entering the Old Res is from stormwater runoff discharged by the four outfalls along
Marrett Road. In 2008, the gatehouse outlet was renovated and the detention basin
was dredged. In 2013, the Old Res stormwater mitigation project was completed.
This project was partially funded under the United States Environmental Protection
Agency’s Section 319 Grant Program via the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection (Mass DEP). The project addressed the four outfalls along
Marrett Road that lead to the reservoir as well as the creation of a second detention
basin and a reconstruction of the Marrett Road parking lot. As a result of this project,
the water quality of the stormwater runoff that enters the reservoir has improved.
Lincoln Park – 39.80 acres
Lincoln Park consists of three multi-
purpose synthetic turf fields, one Little
League baseball field, one softball field,
a playground, open space, and the
Teresa and Roberta Lee Fitness and
Nature Path. A portion of the Town’s
8.8 miles of bike path passes through
Lincoln Park, connecting the High
School on Worthen Road to Bridge
School on Middleby Road. Lexington
High School, the Department of
Recreation and Community Programs,
Lexington residents, and many other
organized programs throughout the
town frequently use Lincoln Park.
During school sports seasons, the high school regularly has games and practices at
Lincoln Park and many organizations such as Lexington Little League, Lexington
Youth Lacrosse, Lexington United Soccer Club, the Department of Recreation and
Community Programs, and individual town leagues use the fields during the year for
sports activities. The three multi-purpose fields have been used for soccer, lacrosse,
flag football, and field hockey. It is not uncommon to see residents of the town
utilizing the Fitness and Nature Path. This path has signs identifying wildlife and
describing physical fitness activities. This facility is managed by the Department of
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Recreation and Community Programs and maintained by the Town’s Public Works
Department and the Lincoln Park Sub-Committee.
Lincoln Park was obtained as public property when purchased as part of the water
supply works for the Town of Lexington in the late 1800’s. It was abandoned around
1905 when the Town joined the Metropolitan District Commission and in the 1930’s
became the town landfill. In 1963, the landfill was abandoned and the area was
subsequently capped using dredge soil (silt and clay) from the Mystic River and blast
rock from the Route 2 construction. Between 1968 and 1972, small capital
appropriations were approved to create some playfields at the landfill. In 1974,
Lincoln Park was turned over to the Department of Recreation and Community
Programs and by 1985, plans were made to create a major recreation complex. Three
natural grass multipurpose fields, a Little League field, and a softball field were built.
In the 1989, the Teresa and Roberta Lee Fitness and Nature Path and a boardwalk
were constructed with private funds, and various town appropriations were used to
upgrade the facility.
In 2002, a private citizen committee of over 24 individuals joined forces to address the
deteriorating condition of the three multi-purpose playing fields. Simply stated, the
fields were dangerous to play on. The drainage was poor and the subsurface fill did
not permit grass to root deeply enough, leaving large sections of the fields either
muddy in the spring or hard packed and bare in the summer and fall. Players were
hurt on the uneven and unforgiving surface. In addition, rocks, glass, and other
debris continuously percolated up from the old landfill. Field users from Lexington
and neighboring communities continually voiced their concerns with the substandard
field conditions. In addition to the safety issues at Lincoln, the Town needed to
respond to the increased demand for athletic fields each year.
The Town, schools, youth leagues, adult leagues, and other users of the park came
together and worked towards a solution. After careful research, a permanent solution
was recommended and supported by the Recreation Committee and the Board of
Selectmen. It was initially determined that it would cost $2.3 million to properly
rebuild the three fields with natural grass, including the required sub-surface
drainage and irrigation. However, further study showed that the rebuilt grass fields
would not provide a long-term solution since the unyielding usage would cause the
fields to deteriorate quickly once again. For $3.4 million, the Town of Lexington was
able to build three infill synthetic turf fields, renovate the natural grass baseball and
softball fields, improve the fitness path and replace the fitness equipment, relocate
and expand the parking area, and build a playground for children ages 2–5 and 5–12.
The synthetic turf looks and plays like natural grass, yet stands up to intense wear
and tear with less maintenance. The fields can be used year-round in all weather
conditions without damage to the synthetic turf.
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Construction work on Lincoln Park began in January 2003. The three multi-purpose
fields, parking area, and enclosed children’s playground were in use by September
2003. The renovation of the softball field and Little League field and reconstruction of
the fitness course was completed by Spring 2004.
Recent capital improvement projects have helped to maintain the condition of Lincoln
Park. The synthetic turf fields had a life expectancy of 10 years. One of the synthetic
turf fields (Lincoln #1) was replaced and a new synthetic turf field was installed in
2014. Replacement of Lincoln #2 is scheduled to be completed in 2015 and the turf
replacement at Lincoln #3 is scheduled to be completed in a subsequent year.
Additionally, in 2013, the rubber safety surface at the playground was resurfaced.
A campaign to have a permanent restroom facility at Lincoln Park came to fruition in
2013. This effort was led by the Lincoln Park Sub-Committee, which is a sub-
committee of the Recreation Committee, and Lexington Lions Club. These groups
received financial support and donations of in-kind services from several youth sports
leagues, community and local organizations, residents, and private vendors. Through
this private/public partnership, all of the funding for this project was raised privately
and the restrooms were gifted to the Town of Lexington upon completion in Fall 2013.
The restrooms are maintained by the Public Facilities Department.
The Teresa and Roberta Lee Fitness and Nature Path is under the administration of
the Department of Recreation and Community Programs and is maintained by the
Department of Public Works and the Lincoln Park Sub-Committee, which also raises
money for its continued maintenance and improvement in addition to the funds
raised privately for the original construction. The Lincoln Park Sub-Committee
continues to invest in extensive work in the meadow area and has overseen the
addition of new walking trails, a marsh overlook, and park benches over the past five
years. The fitness and nature path is 1.35 miles and wanders through delightful
natural areas as well as around the playing fields at Lincoln Park. There are fifteen
self-directed, accessible exercise stations for fitness and nature enthusiasts of all levels
to enjoy. The boardwalk offers many residents a chance to experience a variety of
habitats, which are typically inaccessible and at the same time maintain the habitat’s
vegetation for use by a variety of wildlife, including migrating birds. The
attractiveness of the boardwalk makes it one of the most widely used properties in
Lexington. The area provides a safe and relaxing nature walk during all seasons.
Lincoln Park has turned out to be a centerpiece that the Town of Lexington can be
proud of.
Neighborhood Pocket Parks
One of the true assets that the Town of Lexington has is the collection of
neighborhood “pocket” parks throughout the community. These sites offer a variety
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of recreational opportunities to children and adults alike and generally consist of
playfields, playground equipment, or a combination of both. All of these facilities are
under the administration of the Department of Recreation and Community Programs
and are maintained entirely by the Public Works Department, with funding from the
Recreation and Community Programs Enterprise Fund.
The list of pocket parks in the community includes the following: Adams Park (on
Massachusetts Avenue), Baskin Park (on Wyman Road), Franklin Park (on Stedman
Road), Garfield Park (on Garfield Street), Justin Street Park, Kinneens Park (on
Burlington Street), Marvin Park (on Morris Street), Munroe Park (on Massachusetts
Avenue), Oxford/Bow Street Play Area, Rindge Park (on Rindge Avenue), and
Sutherland Park (on Sutherland Road). Capital improvement projects are completed
at the pocket parks to help maintain and improve the conditions of these play areas.
A new play structure, new swing set, and new safety surfacing was installed at
Adams Park in 2012 and at Garfield Park in 2014. The project at Adams Park was a
public/private partnership between the Town and the Waldorf School where the
Waldorf School donated funding to help enhance the size and quality of the play
structure.
Paint Mine/Hennessey Field – 45.49 acres
Paint Mine is most famous in
Lexington for its namesake feature, a
natural ochre deposit that historically
provided pigment for paint. This mine
was tapped twice by entrepreneurs
attempting to make a profit on the
ochre, once in 1860’s and again in the
1880’s. Today, the old ochre mine is
still visible on the property. Other
prominent features of this landscape
include the open area beneath the
NSTAR power lines and a series of
small ponds that were built during the
1930’s to trap muskrats. After their
abandonment in the 1950’s, these
ponds have slowly been reverting to
the bog-like conditions that likely existed prior to the pond construction. In 1999, a 10-
acre meadow adjacent to Paint Mine, called Hennessy’s Field, was transferred to
conservation status and is now considered part of the Paint Mine conservation area.
Paint Mine is frequently used by students in the adjacent Estabrook Elementary
School as part of the Big Backyard nature education program. The Simond’s Brook
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conservation area lies just across Grove Street from the Paint Mine area, extending the
trail system.
Parker Meadow – 17.66 acres
With access off of the Minuteman
Commuter Bikeway, Parker Meadow
offers a pleasant mixture of forest,
field, and wetland to its visitors in a
relatively small space. The property
features a picturesque pond bordered
by open meadow and woodland.
After acquiring this land, the
Conservation Commission
constructed this pond to improve
water quality and provide wildlife
habitat. Today, the pond provides a
home for many amphibians, reptiles,
and waterfowl, as well as occasional
muskrats and beavers. In recent years, trails have been closed so that they do not
completely encircle the pond, increasing the human-free upland area available to
pond wildlife. Existing bridges over North Lexington Brook have been extended to
allow visitors to cross with minimal impact to wetlands. Additionally, volunteer
efforts have made significant headway in controlling invasive species in the meadow
itself and along one of the primary paths into Parker Meadow. Further, in FY 2015,
CPA funds were approved to develop Design and Engineering plans and 100% Bid
Documents to construct a universally accessible trail system at this area.
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Pine Meadows Golf Club – 87.88 acres
The Town of Lexington contracts with a
professional golf management and
maintenance company to oversee the day-to-
day operations at the Pine Meadows Golf
Club. The Director of Recreation and
Community Programs administers the
budget and management of the contract. The
Director of Recreation and Community
Programs works in partnership with the
Superintendent of Public Grounds to facilitate
the day-to-day operations and market the golf
course. Pine Meadows is a 9-hole municipal
course that is open to the public. The facility
draws as many as 35,000 golfers from the
greater Boston area each year. All revenues
are included in the Recreation and Community Programs Enterprise Fund, where
they are available for capital improvements and maintenance of the Town’s
recreational infrastructure after compensating the golf course management company.
Golf carts are available upon request and a clubhouse is on site. The clubhouse
features men’s and women’s restrooms, a small “lounge,” and a concession stand
which sells snacks, golf balls, and other golf necessities. Lexington residents
frequently use this course during its functioning season from late March to early
December. The Lexington High School golf team uses the course for practices and the
Minuteman Technical High School golf team uses the course for practices and
matches. The course is also used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the
winter.
When the 1976 Master Plan was prepared, Lexington had three golf facilities – Pine
Meadows, Lexington Golf Club (a private membership facility), and Powder Horn
Country Club. The report recommended the Town step in and purchase one of these
valuable resources, should it be threatened by development. Today, Powder Horn, a
former par three, 48-acre course is Potter Pond Condominiums. The future of Pine
Meadows looked shaky as a golf course when in 1984, Town Meeting voted down
purchasing the golf course for $1.85 million. However, in 1988, the Town purchased
the course and abutting open space for $11.3 million.
Over the past 15 years, several capital improvement projects have been completed at
Pine Meadows to help improve the condition of the course. In 2001, the parking lot
was expanded, the access road was widened, and an equipment storage building was
built. In 2007, bunkers on the 1st, 5th, and 7th holes were rebuilt and irrigation was
added. In 2009, a culvert replacement at the upper pond was completed on both sides
of the pond. In 2010, bunkers on the 2nd and 6th holes were rebuilt. In 2013, the
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bunker on the 3rd hole was rebuilt and the lower irrigation pond was dredged to
remove sediment.
Willard’s Woods – 96.04 acres
One of the most heavily used
conservation areas in Lexington,
Willard’s Woods offers visitors
the opportunity to wander
through an old farm that appears
much as it did more than 140
years ago. The property includes
an old apple orchard, an old mill
pond, open meadows, and a
lovely white pine grove, as well
as two brooks and extensive
wetlands. The improved surface
stone dust path connecting North
Street to Hathaway Road
through Willard’s Woods is
scheduled for resurfacing and re-
engineering of eroded areas. This is the only conservation area in Lexington that has a
large dedicated parking lot and picnic area with fireplaces, where Scout troops have
historically held annual camp-outs. The meadows contain a variety of wild flowers as
well as domestic species that have persisted in the wild, including an occasional
asparagus plant. Fox, raccoons, opossum, deer, eastern coyotes, and many bird
species frequent Willard’s Woods, taking advantage of the variety in habitat.
Residential neighborhoods surround the property, and Diamond Middle School sits
at the outlet of one of the main trails. Ongoing efforts have been underway to balance
the popularity of Willard’s Woods for dog walking with other uses.
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Wright Farm – 12.6 acres
The 12.6 acres Wright Farm was
purchased by the Lexington
Conservation Commission in
2013, with trail development and
land management activities
forthcoming. With sweeping
historic farm fields and rich
forested wetlands, Wright Farm
provides key open space and
habitat connectivity in the
northwest corner of Lexington.
The property adjoins the
Burlington Landlocked Forest, a
regionally popular 250-acre open
space area with a well-developed
trail network. Future trail
development at Wright Farm will provide access to the Burlington Landlocked Forest.
The farmhouse and barn were retained in private ownership when the remainder of
the property was purchased by the Conservation Commission, with the Town
maintaining an option to purchase, in 2012 through the Community Preservation
Fund. The Town received notice of its option to purchase the residential lot and is
pursuing Town Meeting approval at the 2015 Annual Town Meeting to purchase a
portion of the lot with the barn for conservation purposes through community
preservation funds.
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6
Community Goals
Description of Process
The goals and objectives for this 2015 Open Space and Recreation Plan update were
derived from a series of meetings and opportunities for public input. The basis for
this effort was the previous 2009 OSRP goals and objectives. During the drafting of
this plan, a variety of methods, as described in Section 2, Introduction, were
undertaken to gather information about the Town’s Open Space and Recreation
resources and goals the community has for maintaining and improving these areas.
Two public forums were held, one in November 2014 and the second in February
2015, to gather input from the community. Both were held at the Samuel Hadley
Public Services Building at 201 Bedford Street. In attendance were all the parties
involved in writing the plan: the Steering Committee, staff from the Lexington
Recreation and Community Programs and Conservation Departments, members of
the Recreation Committee and Conservation Commission, key Town officials and
staff, representatives of VHB, and interested citizens. During the first public forum in
November, the 2009 OSRP goals were presented to citizens. A dialogue ensued where
the participants at the forum provided their suggestions on amendments and
additions to the goals and objectives as they were worded in the previous plan.
In addition to this, a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats)
exercise was conducted. Attendees were divided into three breakout groups for this
discussion. The purpose of a SWOT is not to dictate what the public sees as important
in the planning process, but rather to hear how participants valued Lexington’s open
space and recreational resources and develop an updated set of goals and objectives
based upon their opinions. During the SWOT exercise held in November, the
following views were expressed (“+” means that this was mentioned in more than one
breakout group):
6-1 Chapter 6 – Community Goals September 2015
Strengths:
• Lots of open space
• Our volunteers; community support +
• Professional Town staff; Town is well run + +
• Sports league volunteers
• ACROSS Lexington
• Minuteman Bikeway +
• Recreation activities and programs
• Open space is more scenic
• Artificial turf at 3 fields
• Multi-use open spaces
• Variety of open space and recreation resources
• Number of active residents helping to maintain and improve facilities (many
users, also a weakness)
• Connectivity of trails: they go places and are useful for commuting
• Open spaces are big!
• Guides and literature for navigating
• Stewardship program
• Recreation enterprise fund
• 4 pools
• Lots of conservation parcels: Town values conservation
• Parks and open space are accessible
• Affluent town
Weaknesses:
• No natural water bodies
• No town forest
• Amount of invasive species +++
• Inadequately maintained fields and recreation areas, etc.
• Fragmented/lack of connected open spaces, including access
• Unawareness of open spaces and their resources
• Money value of open space makes preservation/acquisition of existing open
space difficult: loss of neighborhood character without open space
• Not enough money for maintenance
• Lack of access/parking at conservation areas
• Street connectivity to isolated parcels: lack of adequate street access to
conservation areas
• Lack of crosswalks/sidewalks leading to conservation access points
• Lack of athletic fields and protected agricultural land
• Condition of current athletic fields
• Overlapping fields
• Lack of signage, including Minuteman Bikeway
• Minuteman Bikeway crowded, narrow, with concerns of safety at cross streets
6-2 Chapter 6 – Community Goals September 2015
• Too many good ideas: how do we implement? It takes time, a long process; so
many committees
• Lack of bike parking
Opportunities:
• More sidewalks and paths and access
• Increase public transportation (weakness) to provide more access
• Acquire more land +
• Better use of active recreational space (e.g. Baskin playground, Rindge Park)
• More recreation (winter) sports
• New Community Center! +
• CPA is at 3%
• New recreational interests, e.g. cricket, Frisbee golf
• Conservation trail signage with distances and different routes
• Minuteman Bikeway great access, need to widen to accommodate traffic
• Economic development through recreational tourism
• Partnering with other communities for connections
• More bike lanes/complete streets/off-road bike opportunities
• Acquiring targeted additional open space
• Improvement of intersections and access to facilities
• Do more with monuments and space around them
• Historic resources: link with recreation
• Develop a N-S bikeway
• Outdoor recreation at Community Center such as picnic tables (should be
throughout town) +
• More activities for teenagers and by teenagers
• Creative arts
• School recreation programs – big backyard program
• Indoor rock climbing
• Look for housing opportunities along with open space
• Emphasize connectivity and acquisition policies to include paths that connect
properties (i.e. the Community Center) +
• Need to document conservation easements
• Rent watersports/boats
• Bike rental
Threats:
• Invasive species +
• Overuse of properties and facilities +
• Increasing property value
• Increased flooding events/storm damage; climate change/flood
erosion/insects (ticks)
• Losing privately open land to development
6-3 Chapter 6 – Community Goals September 2015
• Competition between agricultural, recreation and conservation; competing
user interest
• Increasing population of certain age/user groups
• Vandalism
• Unmaintained trails and infrastructure
• Inappropriate use of conservation and, e.g. parties, fires
• People leave town due to inadequate facilities and resources
• Development and its impact
• Loss of trees
• Reduced popularity of golf threatens funding for recreation programs
• Climate change
• Pollution
• Overpopulation
Scenes from the Public
Forum
6-4 Chapter 6 – Community Goals September 2015
After the SWOT exercise, the participants had an opportunity to vote on which goals
and objectives they found most important. This was accomplished through a
straightforward process that used stickers and large print-outs of the goals from the
2009 plan, along with additional points made during the forum. Each participant was
given three stickers and simply affixed them next to the goals that he or she valued
most. The stickers were then tallied up and all the data gathered from the dialogue
prior to this exercise was recorded and analyzed. Most of the input for this portion of
the forum focused on some of the new suggestions to expand upon the current goals.
The following goals were selected as the highest priorities at the November 2014
public forum, which were expanded upon later in the planning process to reflect the
goals listed in Section 6.2 below.
• Enhance access to recreation areas and open spaces
• Provide more resources for maintenance
• Protect and maintain the tree canopy
• Enhance bicycling opportunities
Additionally, a survey was distributed throughout the Town and 838 responses were
received. The following summarizes the top responses to each of the questions asked.
The full survey and results can be found in Appendix A.
Nearly 57% of the survey participants are female. Over 58% of the participants are
adults between 35 and 49 years, and 28% between the age of 50 and 64 years, with
another 9% over the age of 65. About 94% of the participants said they have children
in their households. More than half (52%) of the households have at least two children
under 18. On the other hand, over 80% of the participants claim that there is no
person over 65 in their households, while 9% have one elderly person over 65 and
another 9% have two residents over 65 in their households.
The survey result shows that, among all of the open space and recreation resources in
Lexington, the most popular ones are the Center Recreation Complex, Lincoln Park,
the Minuteman Bikeway, and various neighborhood parks and playgrounds. In
general, all of the Town’s open space and recreation areas are well-frequented over
the past two and six months, with Lincoln Park, the Minuteman Bikeway and the
neighborhood parks and playgrounds most frequently visited over the past two
months.
While only 42% of the respondents claimed that they are familiar with the ACROSS
Lexington system, 76% said they have used some portion of the existing ACROSS
paths. A majority (70%) of the respondents agreed that the amount of ACROSS signs
are about right, while 26% thought there are too few signs and 4% thought there were
too many. In general, people think that more paths in open space (56%), in residential
6-5 Chapter 6 – Community Goals September 2015
areas (42%), and on major streets in Town (34%) will further improve the ACROSS
system.
People appreciate Lexington’s open space and recreation resources for various
reasons. The top reasons include: 1) natural, wooded open spaces, 2) community
playgrounds and meeting spaces, 3) mixed use areas for walking and playing, and 4)
peaceful, pleasant, and attractive areas. In terms of concerns and needs, more than
half of the participants thought that recreation and athletic fields are insufficient in
town. About 46% were concerned about loss of open space to development. More
than 60% thought the Town should have more team playing fields, and 55% wanted
to see more on-street bike lanes.
When asked whether the respondents favor purchasing available properties for
conservation, 29% thought the town has adequate amount of conservation land, a
third of them favor such action but without higher taxes, 37% favor such action even
with higher taxes. When asked about recreational resources, a majority of the
respondents favored purchasing available properties for recreational needs, among
which 39% disfavored a tax increase to pay for it, and 44% favor the action even with
higher taxes.
The participants had different opinions on important improvements the Town should
pursue. The top three improvements include: 1) more playing fields for team sports,
2) connecting path between Minuteman Bikeway and Minuteman National Historical
Park Trail, and 3) more activity areas for teens.
In addition, the survey shows that the primary sources of where residents get
information on open space and recreation are the Town’s website, Recreation and
Community Programs brochure, and newspaper.
The second public forum was held on February 10, 2015 at which the major findings
of the planning process were presented. The goals and objectives of the plan were
further refined and the seven year action plan was discussed and reviewed.
Participants prioritized the action items, which are reflected in the Seven Year Action
Plan in Section 9, Seven Year Action Plan, of this Plan.
In summary, the highest ranked priority action items included the following:
• Identify parcels that meet the Town’s criteria for potential acquisition (i.e.
protection of natural resources, recreation potential, improved public access
and connectivity, etc.)
• Continue to develop and implement land management plans
• Continue to develop and enhance the ACROSS Lexington system
• Encourage the involvement of youth groups and sports teams in maintaining
playing fields
6-6 Chapter 6 – Community Goals September 2015
• Implement improvements to athletic fields
• Develop a townwide Complete Streets policy
Goals
The end product of this process was used as a baseline to formulate the new goals and
objectives for the updated 2015 plan. The overarching vision of this Plan is as follows:
• Ensure long-term stewardship and protection of Lexington’s open spaces,
natural environment, and historic resources.
• Maintain the Town’s open space and recreational facilities and promote their
accessibility to all of Lexington’s citizens.
• Expand recreational opportunities for all residents of Lexington.
The goals that establish the Town’s policies for this plan are as follows:
1. Establish and implement a land management program that will assure
optimal maintenance and use of conservation lands.
2. Protect Lexington’s natural environment, both within and beyond the borders
of open space and recreational properties.
3. Promote public use of recreational facilities and open space among a wide
variety of user types.
4. Provide a balance of recreational activities across all demographic groups of
Lexington citizens.
5. Enhance access to and connectivity between open space and recreation areas.
6. Acquire and protect parcels that are important from an environmental,
recreational, or historical perspective.
7. Protect and maintain Lexington’s water resources.
8. Maintain and expand Lexington’s open space and recreational infrastructure.
9. Expand upon and create new opportunities for bicycling and walking
throughout Lexington.
More details on the specific objectives under each goal can be found in Section 8, Goals
and Objectives.
The Steering Committee took this input and weighed in on which goals they felt were
feasible and of high priority. The Committee met regularly with VHB to discuss the
policy and action plan imperatives. These discussions resulted in the final set of goals
and objectives in Section 8.
6-7 Chapter 6 – Community Goals September 2015
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6-8 Chapter 6 – Community Goals September 2015
7
Analysis of Needs
This Analysis of Needs was created by reviewing the 2014 survey conducted by the
Town as part of this planning process, assessing the input from the two public forums
held in November 2014 and February 2015, evaluating the Recreation and Community
Programs 5-Year Capital Plan, and other research into Lexington's resource,
community, and management needs. This analysis summarizes the major open space
issues and concerns facing the Town in 2015 and in the future.
Summary of Resource Protection Needs
The Town continues to address the following six general areas of concern as outlined
in the 2009 Plan:
• General Open Space and Recreation Needs
• Regional Resource Protection Needs
• Historical Resource Protection Needs
• Water Resource Protection Needs
• Wildlife Resource Protection Needs
• Vegetation Resource Protection Needs
It is understood that these areas of need have broad overlap; however, the Town
presents each specific resource protection need under the area of concern in which it
best fits.
General Open Space and Recreation Needs
The diversity in age, ethnicity, and income in Lexington’s population indicate a need
to provide open space and recreation opportunities that appeal to a wide variety of
potential users. The fact that Lexington’s population is getting older, as noted in
7-1 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Section 3.3, Population Characteristics, points toward a need for open space and
recreation areas that allow access for elderly and disabled residents, entrances that
permit access, and trails that are well marked and conducive to “easy” walks. In fact,
walkable, accessible areas generally ranked very highly in the survey for what people
liked about Lexington’s open spaces.
The Department of Recreation and Community Programs and Conservation
Department have surveyed buildings and open spaces in Lexington to determine
which ones meet current ADA guidelines and identified where improvements are
needed.
The Town’s Conservation Stewards work to improve the quality of the Town’s
conservation lands. In 2010, the Town updated the Stewardship Handbook, which
covers general maintenance of the Town’s conservation lands. Further, the Lexington
Conservation Commission, through its consultant Massachusetts Audubon,
developed and approved in February 2015 an overarching Guiding Principles and
Policies Plan for all its conservation areas to address standard management issues.
building of trails and bridges, and the management of invasive species.
Regional Resource Protection Needs
Successful implementation of a good open space plan for Lexington requires
cooperation with nearby communities and resource-oriented organizations in the
region. The Town should continue and expand upon efforts to coordinate with
neighboring communities regarding the protection and maintenance of open space
areas that provide green corridors across town boundaries. Areas in Lexington that
are particularly important to consider in the context of regional natural resource
planning include Arlington’s Great Meadow (located off the Minuteman Bikeway),
the Cambridge Reservoir area, the Beaver Brook North area (connecting with
Waltham and Belmont via the Western Greenway), the Lexington-Burlington border
along Burlington’s landlocked forest, and the area surrounding Minuteman National
Historic Park (connecting with Lincoln and Concord). ACROSS Lexington will connect
with trail networks in adjacent communities.
Additionally, many of the historical sites in Lexington (together with their associated
open spaces) reveal their full significance only when presented in the context of their
relationship to historical sites in other communities. Lexington could best present the
significance of its Revolutionary War historical sites if all the communities along the
Revolutionary War battle route from Boston to Concord coordinate their
presentations of this historic story, which in part is done through the Minuteman
National Historic Park.
7-2 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Historical Resource Protection Needs
Historic preservation has always been a high priority for the Town of Lexington. In
June 2006, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and the
Freedom’s Way Heritage Association prepared the Freedom’s Way Landscape
Inventory, called the Lexington Reconnaissance Report. The Freedom’s Way Heritage
Association includes 37 Massachusetts municipalities that “are linked by historic
events that helped to shape America’s democratic form of governance and the
intellectual traditions that underpin American freedom, democracy, conservation and
social justice”.1 Heritage landscapes are defined in the report as “special places
created by human interaction with the natural environment that help define the
character of a community and reflect its past”.2
The report identifies dozens of heritage landscapes that fall into a variety of different
categories, including agriculture, burial grounds, village, industrial, institutional,
military, open spaces and parks, residential, transportation, and water bodies. There
were three main areas of concern raised by the report. First, landscape stewardship
was cited, although there was a recognition that the Town and private entities have
done a good job in developing management plans for many of the properties.
However, the loss of some heritage landscapes was seen as a loss. Second, regional
landscapes such as the Arlington Reservoir, Battle Road, Arlington’s Great Meadow,
and the Minuteman Bikeway were listed, and the report recommends that the Town
continue to play a leadership role in communicating with neighboring communities.
Third, the report mentioned the lack of a scenic roads bylaw and recommends that
such a bylaw be adopted. These and other recommendations from this report are
addressed in the seven-year action plan in Section 9.
Water Resource Protection Needs
The only large pond in Lexington is the Old Reservoir, which serves as the town’s
recreational swimming area with a beach and lifeguards. As mentioned in Section 4, a
2007 study identified bacteria contamination for stormwater outfalls along Marrett
Road which has since improved through implementation of the stormwater
mitigation project. Historically, Vine Brook, which runs through the center of Town,
has offered trout fishing, but in recent years this brook runs too low during the
summer months. However, fishing is offered at the Old Res and in some of the towns
adjacent to Lexington.
Lexington has 20 brooks that all flow out of town, which means that they are of
special concern for downstream communities in Arlington, Belmont, Waltham,
1 Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and Freedom’s Way Heritage Association, Lexington Reconnaissance Report, June 2006, p. 1 2 Ibid.
7-3 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Lincoln, Bedford, Burlington, and Woburn. All of these brooks face challenges posed
by non-point source pollution due to runoff from roadways, houses, parking lots, and
other impervious surfaces, as well as from inputs such as pesticides and fertilizers.
For instance, the Arlington Reservoir, which lies partially in Arlington and partially in
Lexington, faces a major aquatic weed problem (water chestnut) due to nutrient
overloading from lawn and farm run-off entering the reservoir via Lexington’s
Munroe Brook. More focused efforts are needed to address the degradation that
stormwater run-off causes in the Town’s brooks.
At the time of the 2009 update, Lexington's Conservation Department, Engineering
Department, and a group of citizen volunteers worked together through the
Watershed Stewardship Program to monitor and tend to the health of the streams.
The program conducted observational stream surveys on all of Lexington's streams to
develop a better understanding of the issues that affect their health and function.3 The
program is now coordinated solely by the Engineering Department and engages
students from the University of Massachusetts Lowell through an internship
program.
Fisheries and Wildlife Protection Needs
Lexington’s open spaces provide important habitat for wildlife in a densely human-
populated area of the state. Additionally, a wide diversity of wildlife supports the
ecological health of natural areas. Lexington should continue to identify and certify
vernal ponds, undertake land management efforts that enhance wildlife habitat, and
expand the network of wildlife corridors within town and connect with other towns.
Vegetation Protection Needs
The Conservation Commission should encourage vegetation surveys, particularly in
wetland areas, identify threats to plant diversity, monitor invasive species, and ensure
the protection of unique plant communities. In addition, there is a need to identify
trails that are vulnerable to erosion and loss of vegetation and clearly mark and
maintain trails to encourage hikers to stay on them rather than trample vegetation.
3 http://www.lexingtonma.gov/conservation/watersheds.cfm
7-4 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Summary of Community Needs
Park and Recreation Needs
The survey conducted early in the planning process noted important needs and
concerns about active outdoor recreational facilities, mostly dealing with the
availability of playing fields and maintenance issues. This is an ongoing concern for
communities across the Commonwealth, and the Town of Lexington has made
significant upgrades to many of its facilities. However, facility maintenance and
improvements are constantly on the Town’s radar screen as evidenced by the
Recreation and Community Programs Five-Year Capital Plan, the most current of
which covers FY 2016 – FY 2020.
A number of Lexington's playing fields are designated for multi-sport use. During the
busy spring, summer, and fall sports seasons, most of these fields are in constant use
by high school teams, organized youth and adult sports leagues, and the public.
Sports participation has remained strong in recent years, which creates further field
availability and maintenance challenges.
The Department of Recreation and Community Programs also runs extensive
programs year-round for people of all ages and abilities. Lexington residents are
given preference, but most programs are available to others. Although most
programs are run from Lexington facilities, some are off-site, such as ski and
snowboard programs at Nashoba Valley Ski Area. Brochures advertising the
programs are mailed out to all Lexington households and posted on the Town’s
website.
Boot Camp
7-5 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
In 2013, the Department of Recreation and Community Programs, with the assistance
of a consultant and the community, developed its first Strategic Plan. This plan was
finalized in February 2014. The 2014-2016 Strategic Plan serves as a guide for
providing recreation services to the community with the resources available, in the
current environment, and in a manner consistent with the mission of the Department
of Recreation and Community Programs. The comprehensive process of creating the
plan included engaging members of the community and community leaders. In total,
two workshops, nine focus groups, and a community meeting were held and the
Community Interest Survey that was distributed received a total of 642 responses.
Based on all of the feedback and input that was received, the four organizational
priorities that were identified moving forward are 1) community engagement and
outreach; 2) financial stability and resilience; 3) preservation, protection, and
improvement of Lexington’s recreational infrastructure; and 4) organizational
excellence to exceed customer expectations. Under these four organizational
priorities, there are 13 goals and 50 actions steps that the Department of Recreation
and Community Programs will strive to achieve over the next three to five years, of
which some will be incorporated into the Open Space and Recreation Plan.
Gravity Pool at the
Irving H. Mabee
Town Pool Complex
7-6 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Recreation Land Acquisition
The Lexington Department of Recreation and Community Programs will continue to
prioritize the preservation and protection of, and future improvements to the Town’s
existing recreational infrastructure. This will include dedication towards operational
efforts and resources that will maintain (preventative, short-term, and long-term),
improve, and enhance this critical infrastructure. The Department of Recreation and
Community Programs is excited about the Town’s acquisition of the Scottish Rite
property (39 Marrett Road) and converting that site into the Lexington Community
Center. Indoor program space has always been a challenge and the new Community
Center will present the Department with an opportunity to provide an extensive,
well-rounded assortment of programs and activities to all residents in the community.
While maintaining the current recreational infrastructure and the opening of the new
Community Center are important, acquiring new parcels to be used for active
recreational purposes remains a priority for the Department of Recreation and
Community Programs as well. The Department of Recreation and Community
Programs permits approximately 50,000 hours on the athletic fields each year.
Participation in youth sports, including middle school and high school athletics, has
increased significantly during the past two decades and as a result, demand for multi-
use field time has grown steadily as the sports that utilize this type of field (soccer,
lacrosse, field hockey, ultimate frisbee) have become more popular. In 2013, there
were over 6,000 participants in the Lexington youth and school-based sports
programs (Lexington Public Schools, Lexington United Soccer Club, Lexington Youth
Lacrosse, Lexington Little League, Lexington Babe Ruth, and Lexington-Bedford-
Hanscom Pop Warner Football).
Adams Playground
7-7 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Although participation in youth sports has been increasing, the inventory of Town-
owned athletic fields has actually decreased during this same period of time. The last
time a new recreation athletic field was built was during the 1970’s. It should be
noted that the renovation at Lincoln Park in 2003 was a reconstruction of three pre-
existing multi-purpose fields, a Little League field, and a softball field. The project
did not include the addition of new playing fields. In 1998, the Hennessy Field Ad
Hoc Committee “unanimously concluded that current soccer program enrollments
and the condition of existing fields warrant the immediate development of a new
soccer (multi-purpose) field” and made the recommendation of “immediately
building an additional field to address current soccer enrollments and allow field
rotation for maintenance” (Report of the Hennessy Field Ad Hoc Committee, pages II-
1 and II-4). In 2004, the Town lost two full-size multi-purpose fields and a ¾ size field
when the new Harrington School was built. Additionally, when the new Fiske School
was constructed, the size of the baseball fields was reduced. As a result, Lexington
Little League now uses these fields for Minor league games as there is no longer
enough room for two Major league games to take place simultaneously and adult
softball games are no longer played on the Fiske fields.
In addition to the decreasing inventory, the overall field inventory is affected and
reduced by several other factors. First, there are several overlapping athletic fields in
Lexington, meaning that multiple fields cannot all be used at the same time. A second
factor that limits playability is multiple field layouts on the same field. The condition
of the existing athletic fields also limits playability. Many of Lexington’s fields are
located in low-lying wet areas that drain poorly and as a result, cannot support the
same use as fields that are built and maintained under more ideal conditions. Routine
field maintenance and major renovations to the fields also reduce their playability.
These repairs are essential due to the amount of use that the fields receive. Lastly, the
fifth factor that impacts playability is that the demand for field space is not evenly
distributed throughout the year. The peak time when demand for the fields is highest
is during the spring and fall seasons, specifically from 5:00 - 8:00 pm on weeknights
and from 8:00 am - 6:00 pm on weekends. Further field shortages occur during the
spring season when the Lexington United Soccer Club (LUSC) and Lexington Youth
Lacrosse (LYL) offer programs. Both of these organizations request use of the same
multi-purpose fields at Lincoln Park. This results in negotiating with both groups,
coming up with compromises, and being creative with the field space that is
permitted to each organization. Since Lexington High School has priority use, the
issue is exacerbated further when a high school event (lacrosse games or track and
field meets in the spring) is scheduled during a time when the field is normally
permitted to either LUSC or LYL. Based on demand, the Town’s field inventory is not
currently meeting all of the needs of the community.
All of the factors discussed above contributed to approximately 2,800 hours of field
use being denied, including approximately 1,400 hours that were requested by the
Lexington-based youth sports organizations and Lexington Public Schools, in both
7-8 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
2013 and 2014. This data clearly demonstrates the need for additional athletic fields in
Lexington.
Going forward, the Department of Recreation and Community Programs must
consider methods to increase playability of the athletic fields. Options could include
adding lights to an existing field(s) or converting the playing surface of a field from
natural grass to synthetic turf. Another option is to acquire new parcels and construct
new athletic fields on this land. As mentioned previously, the real demand is for
additional full-size, multi-purpose athletic fields that could be used by multiple youth
sports organizations. A full-size, multi-purpose field (along with adequate parking)
requires approximately two acres of land and the Department of Recreation and
Community Programs recommends that additional full-size, multi-purpose athletic
fields to the Town’s inventory should be a priority going forward.
Enterprise Fund
As noted on the Department of Recreation and Community Program’s website:
The Lexington Department of Recreation and Community Programs has operated as
an Enterprise Fund since 1991. Recreation programs are self-supported by setting
user fees to cover expenses. The Director of Recreation and Community Programs,
through the Recreation Committee, sets fees with the approval of the Board of
Selectmen. The Department of Recreation and Community Programs operating
budget supports staff that manages and delivers recreation programs along with the
supplies needed to operate those programs. Surplus revenues generated through the
Recreation and Community Programs Enterprise (Recreation and Pine Meadows Golf
Club) helps fund Capital Improvement Projects and financially supports other Town
Services including those provided by the Department of Public Works to the aquatic
facilities, tennis courts, and golf course, and payment of $100,000 per year towards the
Lincoln Park debt, which is scheduled to expire in February 2018.4
This is somewhat unique in that most municipal recreation departments require
operating funds from the tax levy.
Lexington Parks and Playing Fields
Lexington has numerous playing fields and courts, playgrounds and tot lots,
swimming facilities, picnic areas, and recreation areas as listed below.
4 http://www.lexingtonma.gov/recreationdepartment.cfm,
7-9 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Aquatics and Swimming Facilities:
• Irving H. Mabee Town Pool Complex, four pools, Worthen Rd.
• Old Reservoir, Marrett Rd.
Baseball Fields:
• Center #1, Worthen Rd.
• Center #3, Worthen Rd.
• Clarke #1, Clarke Middle School, Stedman Rd.
• Diamond #1, Diamond Middle School, Hancock St.
Basketball Hoops/Courts:
• Adams Park, Mass Ave.
• Baskin Park, Wyman Rd.
• Bowman, Bowman School, Philip Rd.
• Bridge, Bridge School, Middleby Rd.
• Center Recreation Complex, Worthen Rd.
• Clarke, Clarke Middle School, Stedman Rd.
• Estabrook, Estabrook School, Grove St.
• Fiske, Fiske School, Adams St.
• Harrington, Harrington School, Lowell St.
• Hastings, Hastings School, Crosby Rd.
• Kinneens Park, Hancock St.
• Marvin Park, Morris St.
• Rindge Park, Rindge Ave.
• Sutherland Park, Sutherland Rd.
Center #1 aerial photo
7-10 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Bicycle Routes:
• Bike routes throughout Lexington
• Jack Eddison Minuteman Bikeway
Community Center:
• Lexington Community Center, Marrett Rd.
Fitness Path:
• Teresa & Roberta Lee Fitness Path, Worthen Rd.
Football Field:
• Crumb High School Football Field, Park Dr.
Golf Course:
• Pine Meadows Golf Course, Cedar St.
Little League Fields:
• Bowman, Bowman School, Phillip Rd.
• Center #4, Fitzgerald Little League Field, Park Dr.
• Fiske #1, Fiske School, Adams St.
• Fiske #2, Fiske School, Adams St.
• Garfield Park, Garfield St.
• Harrington #1, Harrington School, Lowell St.
• Hastings, Hastings School, Crosby Rd.
• Lincoln #1, Lincoln St.
• Sutherland Park, Sutherland Rd.
Flag Football
7-11 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Tee Ball Fields:
• Bridge Triangle, Bridge School, Middleby Rd.
• Estabrook Tee, Estabrook School, Grove St.
• Kinneens Park, Hancock St.
• Munroe Park, Mass Ave.
• Rindge Park, Rindge Ave.
Picnic Areas:
• Center Recreation Complex, Park Dr.
• Cotton Farm, Marrett Rd.
• Lincoln Park, Lincoln St.
• Old Reservoir Picnic Area, Marrett Rd.
• Tower Park, Mass Ave.
• Willard’s Woods, North St.
Recreation Playgrounds and Tot Lots:
• Adams Playground, Mass Ave. (Ages 5-12)
• Bow/Oxford Street Park, Bow St. (Swings)
• Center Playground, Park Dr. (Ages 2-5 and 5-12)
• Franklin Park, Allen St. (Ages 5-12)
• Garfield Park, Garfield St. (Ages 2-5 and 5-12)
• Justin Park, Justin St. (Ages 2-5)
• Kinneens Park, Burlington St. (Ages 5-12)
• Lincoln Park, Lincoln St. (Ages 2-5 and 5-12)
• Marvin Park, Morris St. (Ages 2-5)
• Rindge Playground, Rindge Ave. (Ages 2-5)
• Sutherland Park, Sutherland St. (Ages 5-12)
Rest Rooms:
• Center Playground, Park Dr.
• Lincoln Park, Lincoln St.
Running Outdoor Track:
• Center Track, Worthen Rd.
Skate Park:
• Center Recreation Complex, Worthen Rd.
Softball Fields (Skinned dirt infield):
• Bridge #1, Bridge School, Middleby Rd.
• Bridge #2, Bridge School, Middleby Rd.
• Clarke #2, Clarke Middle School, Stedman Rd.
• Center #2, Worthen Rd. (field with lights for night play)
7-12 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
• Diamond #2, Diamond Middle School, Hancock St.
• Estabrook, Estabrook School, Grove St.
• Franklin Park, Allen Rd.
• Harrington #2, Harrington School, Lowell St.
• Lincoln #2, Lincoln St.
Multi-Purpose Fields (Soccer, Lacrosse, Field Hockey, Ultimate Frisbee, and
Cricket):
• Adams Park, Mass Ave. (¾ size field)
• Center Track, Worthen Rd. (Full size field)
• Clarke, Clarke Middle School, Stedman Rd. (Full size field)
• Diamond, Diamond Middle School, Hancock St. (Full size field, overlaps with
the baseball field)
• Harrington #1, Harrington School, Lowell St. (Full size field)
• Harrington #2, Harrington School, Lowell St. (¾ size field, overlaps with the
Little League and softball fields)
• Lincoln #1, Lincoln St. - Infill synthetic turf (Full size field)
• Lincoln #2, Lincoln St. - Infill synthetic turf (Full size field)
• Lincoln #3, Lincoln St. - Infill synthetic turf (Full size field)
• Muzzey, Mass Ave. (¾ size field)
• Worthen Road Practice Field, Worthen Rd. (¾ size field)
Tennis Courts:
• Adams Park Tennis Courts, Mass Ave. – 2 courts
• Clarke Tennis Courts, Clarke Middle School, Stedman Rd. – 3 courts
• Gallagher Tennis Courts, Worthen Rd. (lights for night play) – 10 courts
• Valley Tennis Courts, Valley Rd. – 2 courts
Five-Year Capital Plan
The FY 2016 – FY 2020 Capital Plan identifies a number of projects that the
Department of Recreation and Community Programs deems necessary to maintain
and upgrade facilities. Some of the projects involve more urgent repairs and are
therefore higher on the priority list. Funding sources are identified and may include
Community Preservation Act (CPA) money, Town funds, or other grant sources.
In 2012, legislation was signed into law that allows communities to rehabilitate
existing parks, playgrounds, and athletic fields using CPA funds. Prior to 2012, CPA
funds could only be used to rehabilitate recreational assets that were initially created
or purchased with CPA funds. The 2012 amendment made it clear that with respect
to land for recreational use, rehabilitation could include the replacement of
playground equipment and other capital improvements to the land or facilities
thereon to make them more functional for their intended recreational use. Since the
7-13 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
amendment passed in 2012, the Department of Recreation and Community Programs
has requested and received CPA funds for rehabilitation projects to the Recreation
infrastructure and will continue to submit projects going forward.
Among the more significant items in the Capital Plan are the following:
• Reconstruction of the track and multi-purpose athletic field at the Center
Recreation Complex
• Replacement of the filtration system and facility improvements at the Irving
H. Mabee Town Pool Complex
• Lighting upgrades at the Center #1 baseball field, Center #2 softball field, and
the basketball courts and Gallagher Tennis Courts at the Center Recreation
Complex
• Athletic field renovations at Adams, Harrington School, and Diamond
Middle School
• Improvements to the playgrounds at Marvin, Sutherland, Rindge, Bow Street,
and Franklin
• Hard court resurfacing projects at Sutherland, Marvin, Rindge, Kinneens,
Adams, and the Valley Tennis Courts
ADA Issues
As part of the planning process for the 2009 Open Space and Recreation Plan Update,
staff from the Department of Recreation and Community Programs and Conservation
Department conducted ADA assessments of each of the Town-owned recreational
and conservation properties. The Department of Recreation and Community
Programs will be hiring a consultant to complete an ADA study of the Town’s
recreation areas in FY 2016, pending funding approval at the 2015 Town Meeting. As
a result of the study, a written Transition Plan will be completed and incorporated
into future recreation capital plans. Additional upgrades will be required during the
course of this plan, which will be addressed in the Seven-Year Action Plan.
The Conservation Department is working on an ADA Trail Project at Parker Meadow,
which will connect the parking area on Revere St. with the Minuteman Bikeway and
Parker Meadow Pond. It is scheduled to be in the design phase in 2015 and will be
built during the 2016 construction season.
SCORP
In 2012, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs completed the
Massachusetts’ Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) to help
guide the distribution of federal funding from the Land and Water Conservation
Fund (LWCF) to state agencies and municipalities for the acquisition of open space,
7-14 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
renovation of parks, and development of new parks. The SCORP is a planning
document that discusses the available recreational resources in a state, as well as its
needs, and identified the gaps between the two.
Goals and action steps were developed after distilling all of the information gathered
through the public participation process. These four goals include:
1. Increase the availability of all types of trails for recreation.
2. Increase the availability of water-based recreation.
3. Invest in recreation and conservation areas that are close to home for
short visits.
4. Invest in racially, economically, and age diverse neighborhoods given
their projected increase in participation in outdoor recreation.
These goals will meet the needs of Massachusetts residents, but also the goals of
America’s Great Outdoors (AGO) for investments in urban parks and community
green spaces. Multiple SCORP goals also coalesce with the Commonwealth’s desire to
increase the share of cyclists and pedestrians among Massachusetts transportation
choices.
Most importantly, the SCORP goals are consistent with the goals and objectives of this
OSRP. The Town’s recent initiatives such as ACROSS Lexington highlight the Town’s
efforts to enhance trails and networks within and outside the Town’s boundaries. The
Town has invested in outdoor water-based recreation including the Irving H. Mabee
Town Pool Complex and the Old Reservoir. The Town’s open space and recreation
facilities are well-distributed around the Town so that they are relatively convenient
to most residents and ACROSS Lexington increases that access. Finally, the Town has a
robust and diverse recreation program that serves all its residents and this will be
further improved once the Community Center opens in mid-2015.5
5 Massachusetts Outdoors 2012, Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, Executive Office of Energy and
Environmental Affairs, 2012.
7-15 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
Management Needs, Potential Change of Use
The main management needs Lexington faces today relate to how the Town manages
its open spaces and recreational facilities. In particular, the Town needs to:
• Look for opportunities, where feasible, to add additional playing fields,
particularly for soccer, lacrosse and multi-purpose fields
• Empower the Recreation Committee and Conservation Commission to
facilitate, help implement, update and advance the goals of this Open Space
Plan
Lexington is fortunate regarding the funding of its park and recreation facilities and
programs. The Department of Recreation and Community Programs operates as an
Enterprise Fund and is self-supported through the user fees it charges for fields and
activities. The maintenance of the athletic fields and facilities is done by the
Department of Public Works and is supported with funding from the tax levy. The
Public Facilities Department provides staff to assist with plumbing and electrical
needs. Additionally, the Town has adopted the Community Preservation Act, which
can provide funds to support park and open space acquisitions. That being said, like
most communities, it is unlikely that the Town is in a position to purchase as many
additional parcels for open space and recreation as it may wish. Moreover, as
expenses and maintenance needs increase, the Department of Recreation and
Community Programs may not be in a position where all short- and long-term needs
can be met.
A high level of open space and recreational facility interest and commitment exists on
behalf of the citizens by those who serve on the Recreation Committee, Conservation
Commission, Greenway Corridors Committee, Bikeway Advisory Committee,
Lincoln Park Sub-Committee, conservation and watershed stewards, and many other
neighborhood and Friends groups. This interest indicates the potential for expanded
citizen support for park, playground, and other open space revitalization.
Need for Open Space and Recreation Facility Management Plans
Lexington would benefit from overall conservation and recreation facility
management plans that would make use of existing Town management structures
and resources. These management plans would provide roadmaps to implement
many of the goals of this Open Space and Recreation Plan. They would also be a tool
for increased public support in making the Town’s parks and open spaces the best
that they can be and ensuring that every part of the Town, and every major segment
of the population, has access to the most up-to-date and suitable facilities possible.
7-16 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
In addition to an overarching conservation and recreation facility management plans,
each major conservation and recreation site needs an individualized, more fine-scaled
management plan. These management plans can help the Town to respond to long-
term and short-term needs relating to conservation and recreation areas in an
organized and systematic way. They can also serve as a tool for lobbying for Town
resources and outside funds to implement improvements.
These management plans could help to:
• Evaluate the possible conflicting needs in land-use decisions
• Coordinate volunteer efforts on conservation and recreation land
• Facilitate interaction with other Town departments, such as Building, Health,
and Public Works/Engineering, to follow through when collaborative action is
needed
• Facilitate coordination efforts with the Conservation Commissions of
neighboring towns
The land management plans should be reviewed every few years to keep them up-to-
date with recent improvements and to document new problems. In January 2015, the
Massachusetts Audubon Ecological Extension Service completed a master Principles
& Policies for Management of Lexington Conservation Land planning document as
well as two site-specific plans for Cotton Farm and Leary Farm.
The Lexington Conservation Commission has a strong working relationship with two
active volunteer groups, the Lexington Conservation Stewards and the Citizens for
Lexington Conservation, which are currently active in planning and undertaking
many land management projects, such as maintaining/improving trails, controlling
invasive species, monitoring conservation areas, and leading nature-related walks.
Additionally, the Lincoln Park Sub-committee, which is a sub-committee of the
Recreation Committee, is active in stewarding Lincoln Park. These organizations can
be engaged in the land management planning process by contributing background
and input for the plans.
7-17 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
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7-18 Chapter 7 – Analysis of Needs September 2015
8
Goals and Objectives
Vision Statement and Open Space and Recreation Goals and Objectives
The natural landscape of Lexington includes densely vegetated forest lands, historic
meadows, important wildlife corridors, land significant to water quality protection,
and wetland resources. Lexington also has a rather extensive network of parks,
playgrounds, and protected natural areas that are fairly well distributed throughout
the Town. In finalizing the list of goals for the 2015 OSRP, the Town of Lexington set
out to continue the traditions of protecting and augmenting these open spaces and
expanding recreational resources. With that in mind, the goals are focused on
enhancements, maintenance, protection, acquisition, and stewardship. Refer to Section
6, Community Goals to understand the process of developing the goals and objectives
for this Plan.
Goal 1: Establish and implement a land management program that will assure optimal maintenance and use of conservation lands.
Objectives:
Develop a formal framework for land management plans and conservation-
oriented geodatabases that address town-wide and site-specific use, maintenance,
and improvement of conservation land.
Actively support the Lexington Conservation Stewards program that assists
Town staff in monitoring and maintaining conservation land.
Increase fundraising efforts that can be used to maintain, improve, and acquire
conservation lands.
8-1 Chapter 8 – Goals and Objectives September 2015
Increase user compliance with conservation land regulations; educate users about
the values and functions of conservation land, and leave-no-trace guidelines; and
reduce user conflicts.
Look for opportunities to expand programs to promote local agriculture and
community gardens.
Goal 2: Protect Lexington’s natural environment, both within and beyond the borders of open space and recreational properties.
Objectives:
Conserve and protect the water and wetland resources of Lexington.
Reduce sources of air and water pollution within Lexington.
Encourage neighboring municipalities to protect their bordering lands of
conservation or wetland significance.
Continue to implement integrated and science-based invasive species control
program.
Maintain the Town’s tree canopy.
Goal 3: Promote public use of recreational facilities and open space among a wide variety of user types.
Objectives:
Utilize various media outlets to promote the Town’s conservation and recreation
properties, programs and facilities.
Provide increased access to programs and facilities for residents with disabilities
in compliance with ADA standards.
Increase education and information offerings through websites development,
kiosks, and other outlets.
Identify ways to increase the use of recreational facilities and programs.
Identify locations for dog parks.
8-2 Chapter 8 – Goals and Objectives September 2015
Goal 4: Provide a balance of recreational activities across all demographic groups of Lexington citizens.
Objectives:
Maximize the use of current facilities.
Establish programs for the Community Center that appeal to the diversity of
Lexington’s residents.
Collaborate with other Town departments and private organizations to expand
program offerings.
Maintain and promote the use of Pine Meadows Golf Course.
Provide for play areas within each neighborhood.
Develop diverse programs for people of all ages and abilities.
Increase year-round program offerings.
Goal 5: Enhance access to and connectivity between open space and recreation areas.
Objectives:
Expand, publicize and maintain the ACROSS Lexington network of trails,
walkways and bike paths.
Improve wayfinding signage and access to conservation and recreation areas.
Goal 6: Acquire and protect parcels that are important from an environmental, recreational, or historical perspective.
Objectives:
Identify and, when possible, acquire parcels of value that have one or more of the
following attributes:
enhances Town character
provides wildlife habitat or connects isolated areas of habitat
protects water quality
contains important or unique natural features and resources
improves public access to open space
has historical or cultural value
preserves farmland
8-3 Chapter 8 – Goals and Objectives September 2015
provides recreational opportunities
connects existing town open space parcels to facilitate non-motorized
transportation and recreation routes
Establish strategies for acquiring important properties that are threatened by
development or that unexpectedly become available.
Explore ways in which land can be acquired and protected without direct
purchase by the Town.
Goal 7: Protect and maintain Lexington’s water resources.
Objectives:
Increase town-wide public outreach and educational offerings regarding the
protection of water resource quality and function in town.
Implement the priority projects identified in the three Watershed Management
Plans.
Work to minimize stormwater run-off pollution impacts, sedimentation, and
erosion into surface waters.
Work to minimize invasive species occurrences on lands bordering water
resources.
Goal 8: Maintain and expand Lexington’s open space and recreational infrastructure.
Objectives:
Continue long-range planning for improvements to recreational facilities.
Prioritize park maintenance and focus on facilities that experience the highest use.
Organize maintenance activities for maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
Look for opportunities to build new playing fields to meet the growing demand.
Goal 9: Expand upon and create new opportunities for bicycling and walking throughout Lexington.
Objectives:
Encourage Lexington residents to participate in bicycling and walking activities.
8-4 Chapter 8 – Goals and Objectives September 2015
Create an effective wayfinding program for on- and off-road bicycling in
Lexington and to adjacent towns.
Create safe bicycle routes along the Town’s streets.
Maintain and improve upon Lexington’s Bronze Level designation from the
League of American Bicyclists.
8-5 Chapter 8 – Goals and Objectives September 2015
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8-6 Chapter 8 – Goals and Objectives September 2015
9-1 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
9
Seven Year Action Plan
Introduction
The Seven Year Action Plan is based on the goals and objectives of the previous
section. To ensure the implementation on a year-to-year basis of these actions, the
Town of Lexington should clearly identify a committee comprised of representatives
from Town staff and existing boards and commissions that will be in charge of
ensuring this Plan is used and followed. The committee will be responsible not only
for overall implementation of the plan, but would also work to ensure that public
outreach and education is achieved.
The Seven Year Action Plan is often the most difficult component of an Open Space
and Recreation Plan. Unlike the lofty goals and objectives of the previous sections,
this is where the rubber meets the road, where the planning ideals are translated into
concrete actions. An Action Plan can sometimes be difficult to commit to and be
problematic to review over time. Items that have been accomplished fade from view,
while the more intractable problems linger for years. Financial and political trends
may change, advancing some items while leaving others untouched.
The following action plan intends to deliver on the promise of the goals and objectives
expressed throughout this process, with a program of tangible steps for the Town to
take over the next seven years. There is a high level of activity already underway on
many of these steps, based upon the input received during the planning process.
These actions are targeted to address the physical as well as the organizational issues
confronting the Town, as described and analyzed in Section 7, Analysis of Needs. The
seven year action plan described below works to correct these “process” problems,
while still maintaining a focus on the substantive issues of open space and recreation
preservation, acquisition, enhancement, management, and maintenance. In addition
to the more detailed plan below, some key items are displayed on Map 10, Action Plan
and Priorities.
9-2 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Some of these actions are already underway; many are ongoing but need additional
support. And while all actions listed are recognized as important, three areas in
particular rise to the top as being absolutely essential for any future progress towards
meeting the goals of this Plan:
Obtaining support from Town staff, commissions, and boards that open space and
recreation is a central and lasting priority for Lexington. While it is to be understood
that there may be competing needs in the Town, all groups must abide by the central
tenet that these issues are extremely important to the residents of Lexington.
Essentially, this was the tone of the public comments and the significant number of
survey responses, both of which reinforced the need for the Town to have and
maintain high quality open space and recreational resources. Where open space and
recreational resources are concerned, the goals and policies of this Plan must be
consulted.
Creating some form of an oversight committee. If the ambitious goals and objectives
of this Plan are to be achieved, there should be a single committee charged with
overseeing progress and coordinating the actions and priorities of the various groups.
Such a committee could be comprised of representatives of relevant departments,
boards, committees and commissions and would meet as needed to address plan
implementation. The committee would receive staff assistance from the Department
of Recreation and Community Programs, Conservation Department, and Planning
Department. It also could coordinate with committees of neighboring municipalities
to the extent possible on issues of regional concern (such as the Minuteman Bikeway,
ACROSS Lexington, and land surrounding the Cambridge Reservoir, for example).
Securing additional sources of funding, staffing, and other support for park facility
maintenance and enhancement. One of the Town’s main concerns is the need to
maintain and enhance its existing parks and playing fields. Resources to achieve these
goals can be scarce and the Town must be creative in how funds are raised. Several
recommendations are made specifically to identify the means for spreading the
responsibility specifically for parks maintenance, such as creating a park steward
program similar to the one established by the Lexington’s Conservation Stewards for
the Town’s conservation lands.
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Document Path: \\vhb\proj\Wat-LD\12893.00\GIS\Project\09 Open Space and Recreation Inventory_update.mxd
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2015
Map 10
Action Plan Map
Data Source: MassGIS, Town of Lexington
°0 0.5 10.25
Miles
Legend
Interstate
U.S. Highway
State Route
Water Bodies
Trails
Minuteman Commuter Bikeway
ACROSS Lexington Routes
Town Trails
Open Space and Recreation Areas
by Primary Purpose
Conservation
Recreation
Recreation and Conservation
Agriculture
Historical/Cultural
Habitat Protection
Water Supply Protection
Other
by Public Access
Yes
No
Limited
Wright Farm
Paint Mine
Minuteman NationalHistoric Park
Lower Vine Brook
Idylwilde
Hayden Woods
Dunback Meadow Busa
FarmGreat Meadow
DaisyWilsonMeadow
Tower
Park
MunroeCemetery
Upper Vine BrookCotton Farm
Marvin St.
Playground
Simond's
Brook Estabrook
ElementarySchoolWestview
Cemetery Justin St.
Playground
Baskin
Park
Turning
Mill Pond
Tophet
Swamp
Kinneen's
Park Willard's Woods
DiamondMiddle School
Chiesa
Farm
Fiske
ElemenrarySchool
North Street
Parker
Meadow
Valley Rd.TennisCourts
Town Compost
Facility
Meagherville
Garfield St.
Park
KatahdinWoods
Pine MeadowsGolf Club
Freemont St.Open Space
Poor
Farm Old
Burying
Ground Battle
Green
Belfry Hill
Hastings
Park Center
Recreation
Complex
LexingtonHigh School
LincolnPark
BridgeElementary
School
Old Reservoir
Minuteman Regional
High School
Hastings
Elementary
School
CranberryHill
Hobbs Brook
Basin
Munroe
Park
MuzzeyField
Shaker
Glen
HarringtonElementary School
WhippleHill
RindgePark Arlington
Reservoir
CataldoReservation
Oxford/Bow St.ParkLibertyHeights
Joyce Miller's
Meadow
Adams
ParkFranklin Park
Dunback Meadow
BowmanElementary School
WestFarm Sutherland
Park
SutherlandWoods
BowmanParkBlossom St.Park
Clarke
Middle School
JuniperHill
Cambridge
Reservoir
Beaver Brook North
Beaver Brook North
Upgrade
Golf Course
Establish programs at
Community Center for
all residents
Develop and enhance
ACROSS Lexington
Develop and implement
land management plans
Continue to address
stormwater runo
aecting surface waters
Town-wide Actions:
- Capital Improvements at numerous parks and elds, 2015-2021
- Create new bike routes
9-4 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Accomplishments Since the 2009 Plan
The 2009 Plan was very ambitious in terms of the recommendations and specific
actions found in its five year action plan. However, the Town has made great strides
in implementing many of these actions, and a number of those recommendations are
carried forward in this Plan as ongoing items.
The following is a summary of significant accomplishments since the 2009 Plan was
adopted.
Goal 1: Establish and implement a land management program that will assure
optimal maintenance and use of conservation lands.
Develop a strategy for creating a conservation land management plan (LMP) –
Conservation Department contracted with Mass Audubon Society’s
Ecological Extension Service to prepare a town-wide Policies and Procedures
for Management of Lexington Conservation Land as well as two site-specific
LMPs for Cotton Farm (connected to Upper Vine Brook) and Leary Farm
(part of Lower Vine Brook). They were completed in January 2015. The
Conservation Department will continue developing site-specific LMPs on a
schedule over a phased timeline.
Increase support to volunteer organizations that assist Town staff in monitoring and
maintaining Town conservation lands – Lexington Conservation Stewards have
grown to a membership of approximately 150. Conservation Stewards
Directors group, which numbers 15 currently, is very active and has planned
and built a large number of boardwalks and bridges, maintained the Town's
conservation trail infrastructure, received state conservation grants, and
advised the Conservation Commission on a variety of land management
projects.
o Conservation Commission holds regular quarterly meetings with the
Lexington Conservation Stewards Directors group to facilitate progress
on volunteer-based stewardship activities.
o The Conservation Stewards were awarded two DCR Recreational Trails
Program grants for large scale trail improvements at Whipple Hill and
Paint Mine Conservation Area over the past three years.
o Hennessey Barn has been renovated to provide storage space for tools
and equipment for land stewardship-related activities.
Goal 2: Protect Lexington’s natural environment, both within and beyond the
borders of open space and recreational properties:
Restore Upper Pond Dam at Pine Meadows to preserve ponds – Completed in 2012.
9-5 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Address stormwater management issues at Old Reservoir and improve
gatehouse/outlet structure and dredge retention pond – Completed in 2013.
Completion of Watershed Management Plans for the three Watersheds: Shawsheen,
Charles, and Mystic.
Goal 3: Promote public use of recreational facilities and open space among a wide
variety of user types:
Increase outreach efforts to local media sources regarding recreation and conservation
resources and programs – Recreation and Community Programs submits press
releases to the Lexington Minuteman, Colonial Times, and Lexington Patch and
promotes programs through social media networks such as Facebook.
Plan and construct improvements that will provide access to programs and facilities
for residents with disabilities, using ADA standards – All recent playground
improvements/replacements have been ADA accessible and renovations at
the Town Pool in 2010 addressed any ADA issues that were present. A
complete ADA study of the entire recreation infrastructure is scheduled for
FY2016.
Work with other Town departments and citizen groups to identify how to best
increase the use of recreational facilities and programs – Department of Recreation
and Community Programs completed its first Strategic Plan in 2013. The
community was very involved in the process and included in the plan is an
extensive section of comments and feedback given by the public.
Goal 4: Provide a balance of recreational activities for all of Lexington’s citizens:
Maximize use of current facilities, Increase efforts to promote the use of the Pine
Meadows Golf Course, and Increase year-round program offerings – Ongoing.
Loyalty programs and discounts are offered during non-peak hours.
Explore and pursue options for increasing indoor recreation facility space – The
Town purchased 39 Marrett Road (which was previously the Scottish Rite
property) in 2013. The building is being converted into a Community Center
that will house both the Department of Recreation and Community Programs
and Human Services Department. The Community Center is scheduled to
open in Spring 2015.
Assess the distribution of play areas across town and create plans to install play areas
in neighborhoods where they are not currently present – There are several
neighborhood “pocket parks” scattered throughout the community.
Department of Recreation and Community Programs attempted to install a
pocket park on Blossom Street, but was met with strong opposition from the
neighbors.
9-6 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Collaborate with other Town departments and citizens groups to explore options for
expanding programs – Representatives from the Department of Recreation and
Community Programs are currently meeting with the ad hoc Community
Center Advisory Committee (CCAC) and the CCAC Programming
Subcommittee as plans for how the Community Center will operate are being
determined.
Continue to be cognizant of the need to diversify recreational opportunities to reflect
Lexington’s demographics – Department of Recreation and Community
Programs’ Strategic Plan helped to identify the ever-changing demographics
within the community and how we, as a department, can meet the
recreational needs of the citizens.
Goal 6: Enhance connectivity between open space and recreation areas:
Install standardized entryway signage and trail markers on open space areas –
Ongoing. This has been done for the ACROSS Lexington signs and has started
to be implemented at select parks around town, such as the Pine Meadows
Golf Course, the Center Track, and the Center Recreation Complex.
Goal 7: Acquire parcels that are important from an environmental, recreational, or
historical perspective:
Identify parcels that have one or more of the following attributes... – Ongoing (39
Marrett Road – Community Center, and five conservation parcels acquired
since 2009: Goodwing parcels, Leary, Cotton, Wright, and Busa Farm.
Goal 9: Preserve, protect, and improve Lexington’s recreational infrastructure:
Renovate Center Complex restrooms – Completed in 2011.
Implement improvements to athletic fields at Bridge School, Center Complex,
Hastings, Garfield, and Adams
o Bridge – Completed in 2011.
o Center Complex – The Town is about to complete a three-phase project
that will improve the drainage of the athletic fields at the Center
Recreation Complex. The project included improvements to the Center #1
baseball field, Center #2 softball field, Dr. Harold Crumb football
field/Center #3 baseball field, Center Track multi-purpose field, Fitzgerald
Little League field, and the Worthen Road practice field. The project
began in 2011 and will be completed in 2015.
o Hastings – Completed in 2010.
o Garfield – A full irrigation system was installed in 2012 and a new
playground was installed in 2014.
o Adams – This field renovation is scheduled for FY2017.
9-7 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Encourage the involvement and coordination of youth groups, sports teams, and other
user groups in maintaining playing fields – The Youth Sports Advisory Council
(YSAC) was formed in 2008 and its purpose is to maintain and improve the
quality of youth sports that are being offered in the community, which
includes providing safe playing conditions. The YSAC consists of
representatives from all of the Lexington-based youth sports organizations
and the Council meets on a quarterly basis throughout the year.
Replace lighting at the Center tennis and basketball courts – Scheduled for FY2017.
Undertake Town Pool renovations – Renovations to the men’s and women’s
locker rooms were completed in 2012 and this project included the
installation of new toilets, showers, and sinks in the locker rooms. A more
extensive renovation project (installation of a new filtration system) is
scheduled for FY2017.
Update and renovate playground structures at Munroe, Franklin, and Adams
playgrounds to meet safety and ADA requirements fields
o Munroe – Equipment was removed due to underutilization and safety
concerns.
o Franklin – Completed in 2011.
o Adams – Completed in 2012.
o Garfield – Completed in 2014.
o Additionally, the safety surface at the Lincoln Park playground was
refurbished in 2013 and the Skate Park was renovated with all new
equipment in 2014.
Resurface hard courts at Center basketball courts, outdoor track, tennis courts, and
neighborhood basketball courts
o Center basketball courts – Completed in 2010.
o Center Track – Completed in 2012.
o Center and Clarke tennis courts – Scheduled for 2015.
o Basketball court at Sutherland Park and Marvin Park – Scheduled for
FY2016.
o Basketball court at Rindge Park and Kinneens Park – Scheduled for
FY2017.
o Adams tennis courts and basketball court – Scheduled for FY2019.
o Valley tennis courts – Scheduled for FY2020.
Continue to monitor and respond to maintenance issues at Town parks, playgrounds,
and ball fields – Ongoing.
9-8 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan
Implementing the recommendations included this Seven Year Action Plan will need
to take into consideration the Town’s annual budget, capital improvement projects,
and the Town’s capacity - in terms of the staff and volunteers - that are needed to
move specific actions forward. As such, maintaining flexibility in the goals,
objectives, and the implementation process and continuing to assess and set priorities
will be based on an on-going collaboration and coordination between the Town Staff
and Administration. In addition, these priorities will be coordinated in concert with
the Town’s robust list of volunteers and partners.
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Goal 1: Establish and implement a land management
program that will assure optimal maintenance and use
of conservation lands.
Continue to develop and implement conservation land
management plans that address both town-wide and site-
specific issues, including invasive species (approximately
two each year)2
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town, CPA, volunteer hours
Continue to coordinate and build capacity for volunteer
organizations that assist Town staff in monitoring and
maintaining Town conservation lands
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town
Increase funding to support conservation efforts and
projects
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Citizen donations, CPA, Town
1 Note that the years are calendar years; not fiscal years. 2 Three have been completed as of January 2015 – Cotton Farm, Wright Farm and Leary Farm
9-9 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Increase visibility of conservation area through standardized
kiosks, entryways and wayfinding signage, and provide
visitor amenities such as bike racks and parking. Include
ACROSS Lexington as part of this effort.
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town, grants, volunteer hours
Create Governmental-Civic Use (GC) zoning district for
federally, state, and municipally owned properties. Include
open space, recreation, and conservation purposes as part
of this effort.
Responsible Party: Planning
Funding: Town
Goal 2: Protect Lexington’s natural environment, both
within and beyond the borders of open space and
recreational properties.
Continue to identify, certify, and protect vernal pools in
Lexington. Outreach to landowners regarding vernal pool
identification and certification.
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town, grants
Reduce Lexington’s carbon footprint and collaborate with
Sustainable Lexington to conduct outreach campaigns
Responsible Party: Sustainable Lexington
Funding: Town, grants
Coordinate with neighboring municipalities to protect and
maintain lands of conservation or wetland significance
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town, volunteer hours
Implement land management plans for strategically
managing invasive plant and pest species in Lexington,
working with the Tree Committee, volunteer citizen groups,
non-profit organizations, and schools.
Responsible Party: Conservation, Recreation, Lincoln Park
Sub-committee, DPW, Tree Committee
Funding: Town, grants, volunteer hours
9-10 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Improve management of conservation restrictions
Continue to gather baseline documentation on
conservation restrictions held by the Town
Establish a schedule for monitoring restricted
parcels
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town
Continue to update web-based resources to educate
Lexington residents on conservation related information
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town
Goal 3. Promote public use of recreational facilities and
open space among a wide variety of user types.
Increase outreach and education efforts to local and social
media sources, and e-mail subscriber lists regarding
recreation and conservation resources and programs and
events, including new programs at the Community Center
Responsible Party: Conservation, Recreation
Funding: Town
Offer regular open space education activities throughout the
year
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town
Plan and construct improvements that will provide access to
programs and facilities for residents with disabilities, using
ADA and MA AAB standards
Update ADA Study
Responsible Party: Recreation, Conservation
Funding: Town; PARC, CPA
Work with other Town departments and citizen groups to
identify how to best increase the use of recreational facilities
and programs, including the feasibility for lighting athletic
fields
Responsible Party: Recreation
Funding: Town
9-11 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Goal 4. Provide a balance of recreational activities for
all of Lexington’s citizens.
Continue to be cognizant of the need to diversify year-round
recreational opportunities to reflect Lexington’s
demographics, including specialized events with local
cultural organizations
Responsible Party: Recreation, Council on Aging (programs
to be coordinated through Recreation), Library
Funding: Town
Establish programs for the new Community Center to meet
the diverse needs of Lexington’s citizens
Responsible party: Recreation
Funding: Town
Maximize use of current facilities, including the new
Community Center and continue efforts to promote the use
of the Pine Meadows Golf Course
Responsible Party: Recreation
Funding: Town
Collaborate with other Town departments and citizens
groups to explore options for expanding programs and
additional facilities such as ballfields and dog parks
Responsible Party: Recreation
Funding: Town
Goal 5. Enhance connectivity between open space and
recreation areas.
Continue to develop and enhance the ACROSS Lexington
system
Responsible Party: Conservation, Recreation, Greenway
Corridors Committee
Funding: Town, CPA
Work with neighboring communities and citizen groups to
formalize trail connections between open space and
recreation areas within and outside of Lexington
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town, grants
9-12 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Goal 6. Acquire and protect parcels that are important
from an environmental, recreational, or historical
perspective.
Identify parcels that have one or more of the following
attributes:
enhances Town character
provides wildlife habitat or connects isolated areas
of habitat
protects water quality
contains important natural features and resources
improves public access to open space
has historical or cultural value
provides recreational opportunities
connects existing Town open space parcels to
facilitate non-motorized transportation routes and
recreation routes
Responsible Party: Conservation, Recreation, Historical
Commission
Funding: LAND, CPA, Town
Compile a list of historic resources that require more
documentation based upon priority heritage landscapes.
Document secondary features such as barns,
stone walls, and landscape elements
Record historic resources including landscape
features and industrial resources
Conduct community-wide archaeological survey.
Responsible Party: Historical Commission
Funding: Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund (for
preservation)
Amend the Zoning Bylaw to include open space zoning that
protects land that should not be developed
Responsible Party: Planning
Funding: n/a
9-13 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Goal 7. Protect and maintain Lexington’s water
resources.
Continue to collaborate with Engineering on NPDES MS4
permit to address stormwater run-off pollution and other
issues affecting brook health and function
Continue to schedule brook clean-up days to
remove unnatural trash from brooks and to clear
outfall blockages
Continue to work with the Town’s DPW
department to address sedimentation and outfall
issues identified through shoreline surveys
Continue to install “Don’t Dump—Drains to Brook”
on storm drains in town
Continue to conduct water quality testing at
targeted areas to identify sources of water
pollution
Continue to conduct education and outreach to
citizens regarding water quality and stormwater
run-off pollution
Continue to monitor and mitigate stormwater run-
off at the Old Reservoir
Responsible Party: Conservation, Engineering, DPW,
Recreation
Funding: Town, grants
Goal 8: Maintain and expand Lexington’s open space
and recreational infrastructure.
Renovate Center Track Complex
Responsible Party: Recreation, DPW
Funding: Town, CPA
Implement improvements to athletic fields at Lincoln,
Adams, Hastings, Bowman, Franklin, Harrington and
Diamond
Responsible Party: Recreation, DPW
Funding: Town, CPA
Encourage the involvement and coordination of youth
groups, sports teams, and other user groups in maintaining
playing fields
Responsible Party: Recreation, DPW
Funding: n/a
9-14 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Implement the following improvements at the Center
Recreation Complex:
Replace lighting at the Center 1 baseball field
Replace lighting at the Center 2 softball field
Undertake Town Pool filtration renovations
Responsible Party: Recreation, DPW
Funding: Recreation, CPA
Update and renovate playground facilities at Marvin,
Sutherland, and Rindge Playgrounds to meet safety and
ADA and MA AAB requirements
Responsible Party: Recreation, DPW
Funding: Recreation, Town, CPA
Replace swings at Bow St., Franklin, and Munroe
Playgrounds
Responsible Party: Recreation, DPW
Funding: Recreation, Town, CPA
Resurface and tennis courts and neighborhood basketball
courts:
Clarke tennis courts
Gallagher tennis courts at the Center Recreation
Complex
Marvin and Sutherland basketball courts
Rindge and Kinneens basketball courts
Adams basketball and tennis courts
Valley tennis courts
Responsible Party: Recreation, DPW
Funding: Recreation, Town, CPA
Improvements at Pine Meadows Golf Course
Responsible Party: Recreation
Funding: Recreation, Town
Upgrade Lower Vine Brook Path
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town
Improve Parker Meadow accessible trails
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town
9-15 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Implement the Conservation Meadow Preservation Program
Responsible Party: Conservation
Funding: Town
Respond to maintenance issues at Town parks,
playgrounds, ball fields, trails, and the Minuteman Bikeway
Responsible Party: DPW, Conservation, Greenway
Corridors Committee, Bicycle Advisory Committee
Funding: Town (as needed)
Install standardized signage at Lexington’s open space, park
and recreational facilities
Responsible Party: Recreation, Conservation
Funding: Town
Goal 9: Expand upon and create new opportunities for
bicycling and walking throughout Lexington.3
Establish ongoing bicycle safety and education programs for
children and adults
Responsible Party: Bicycle Advisory Committee, Police
Funding: Town
Install and upgrade bike racks in Lexington Center and at
parks and open spaces
Responsible Party: Bicycle Advisory Committee, DPW
Funding: Town
Develop a townwide Complete Streets policy
Responsible Party: Planning, BOS, Bicycle Advisory
Committee, DPW
Funding: n/a
3 See also Goal 5 – Action 1(Continue to develop and enhance the ACROSS Lexington system).
9-16 Chapter 9 – Seven Year Action Plan September 2015
Seven Year Action Plan 20151 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Consider options for widening the Minuteman Bikeway as
recommended in the Toole Design report
Responsible Party: Bicycle Advisory Committee, DPW
Funding: Town, state or federal funds
Examine and implement options for north-south bike routes
Responsible Party: Bicycle Advisory Committee, DPW
Funding: Town
Enhance connectivity between Battle Rd., West Lexington
Greenway, and the Minuteman Bikeway
Responsible Party: Bicycle Advisory Committee, DPW
Funding: Town
Appendices
Appendices
A Open Space and Recreation Plan Survey and Results
B Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance and Survey
C Letters of Approval
Appendices
Page Intentionally Left Blank
Appendices
Appendix A
Open Space and Recreation Plan Survey and Results
Appendices
Page Intentionally Left Blank
Page 1/4
Town of Lexington
Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2014
Community Survey
Lexington is preparing a seven-year plan to guide the Town in how it should protect existing open spaces,
enhance its park and recreation resources, and set direction for future use, maintenance and improvements. The
following questions are asked as part of the process to obtain community input for this plan.
Part I Demographic
This section helps the Town understand the population in Lexington responding to the survey and will help to
shape additional public outreach to maximize participation by a wide audience.
1. What is your gender?
Female ee
Male ee
3. How many people are in your household?
1 ee 5 ee
2 ee 6 ee
3 ee More than 6 ee
4 ee
4. How many people in your household are under 18?
1 ee 5 ee
2 ee 6 ee
3 ee More than 6 ee
4 ee
5. How many people in your household are over 65?
1 ee 3 ee
2 ee More than 3 ee
6. What is your ethnicity? (check all that apply)
American Indian or Alaskan Native ee Hispanic or Latino ee
Asian or Pacific Islander ee White/Caucasian ee
Black or African American ee Prefer not to answer ee
7. What was your total household income before taxes during the past 12 months?
Less than $25,000 ee $50,000 to $74,999 ee $150,000 to $199,999 ee
$25,000 to $34,999 ee $75,000 to $99,999 ee $200,000 or more ee
$35,000 to $49,999 ee $100,000 to $149,999 ee Prefer not to answer ee
2. What is your age?
Under 18 ee
19-34 years ee
35-49 years ee
50-64 years ee
Age 65 or older ee
Page 2/4
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2014 – Community Survey
Part II Open Space and Recreation
1. What are your five favorite open space, passive parks, recreation areas or natural areas owned by
Lexington? (check up to 5)
Center Recreation Complex e Old Reservoir e
Community Gardens e Paint Mine e
Dunback Meadow e Parker Meadow e
Hayden Woods e Pine Meadows Golf Club e
Lex Farm e Public Tennis Courts e
Lincoln Park e Skate Park e
Lower Vine Brook e Tower Park e
Meagherville e Whipple Hill e
Minuteman Bikeway e Willard’s Woods e
Neighborhood Parks and Playgrounds e Other _________________ (fill in) e
2. Which of the areas listed in question 1 have you visited or used in the past 2 months? 6 months?
(check all that apply)
2 months 6 months 2 months 6 months
Center Recreation Complex e e Old Reservoir e e
Community Gardens e e Paint Mine e e
Dunback Meadow e e Parker Meadow e e
Hayden Woods e e Pine Meadows Golf Club e e
Lex Farm e e Public Tennis Courts e e
Lincoln Park e e Skate Park e e
Lower Vine Brook e e Tower Park e e
Meagherville e e Whipple Hill e e
Minuteman Bikeway e e Willard’s Woods e e
Neighborhood Parks and
Playgrounds e e Other _________________
(fill in) e e
3. Are you familiar with the ACROSS (Accessing Conservation land, Recreation areas, Open space,
Schools, and Streets) system?
Yes e No e
4. If you answered Yes to Question 3:
- Have you used any of the existing ACROSS paths?
Yes e
No e
- In your opinion, which of the following features would improve the ACROSS system?
(check all that apply)
Shorter paths e More paths in open space e
Longer paths e More paths in residential areas e
More paths on major streets in Town (e.g., Mass Ave., Bedford St., and Waltham St.) e
- How do you find the amount of signs?
Too few e
About right e
Too many e
Page 3/4
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2014 – Community Survey
- As new ACROSS paths are added, are there specific locations or facilities in Town you would like to
see incorporated?
Yes e
No e
5. What do you like about the Town’s resources listed in Question 1 and 2? (check all that apply)
Natural, wooded open spaces e Bird/wildlife habitats e
Community playgrounds/meeting space e Playing fields e
Mixed use areas for walking & playing e Aesthetics/scenic vistas e
Accessible multi-use paths, open to all e Agriculture/
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) e
Water views and/or access e Historical/open meadow landscape e
Peaceful, pleasant, attractive areas e Other _________________ (fill in) e
6. What are your major concerns regarding the Town’s recreational and natural open spaces?
(check all that apply)
Lack of maintenance, including general
tree removal, pruning, and mowing e Lack of proper wildlife management,
including hunting e
Invasive plants e Disturbance of wildlife habitat e
Loss of open space to development e Dogs (cleanup, disturbance to others) e
Limits on use e Missing game lines/field markings e
Trash accumulation e Overall conditions of fields and equipment e
Vandalism/graffiti e Lack of parking e
Accessibility for disabled e Inadequate trail signage e
Insufficient open space e Connectivity of open spaces/trails e
Insufficient recreation/athletic fields e Other _______________________ (fill in) e
Lack of multi-use paths, ADA compliant e
7. Does the Town have an adequate amount of the following? (check all that apply)
Y N No opinion Y N No opinion
Children’s playgrounds e e e Cross-country ski trails e e e
Neighborhood parks e e e Ice skating venues e e e
Natural areas/nature trails e e e Community gardens e e e
Team playing fields e e e Unpaved off-street
walking/biking trails e e e
Outdoor swimming e e e Paved off-street
walking/biking paths e e e
Indoor swimming e e e On-street bike lanes e e e
Playfields for unstructured sports
such as Frisbee and badminton e e e Working farms/
active agricultural areas e e e
Interpretive signage on trails e e e Canoeing/kayaking e e e
Tennis courts e e e Picnic areas e e e
Dog parks e e e Other ___________ (fill in) e e e
If yes, which location or facility?
______________________________________________________ (fill in)
Page 4/4
Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update 2014 – Community Survey
8. Do you favor purchasing available properties (e.g., undeveloped spaces, farms) for conservation?
No, the Town does not need additional conservation land e
Yes, but not funded by higher taxes e
Yes, even if funded with higher taxes e
9. Do you favor purchasing available properties (e.g., undeveloped spaces, farm) for recreational needs
(e.g., sports fields)?
No, the Town does not need additional recreational land e
Yes, but not funded by higher taxes e
Yes, even if funded with higher taxes e
10. Funding open space/recreation improvements: select up to five improvements from the following list
that you consider important for the Town to pursue. (check up to 5)
More activity areas for teens e Better playing field maintenance e
More children’s playgrounds e More public art displayed in parks e
More areas for adult sports e More neighborhood parks e
More community gardens e More small landscaped areas e
Better ice skating facilities e More walking/nature trails e
More indoor sports/recreation facilities e More trails for off-road biking or
cross-country skiing e
Enhanced public swimming pool
facilities e Acquisition of open space land for
conservation purposes e
Better park/playground maintenance e More wooded natural areas e
More playing fields for team sports e Acquisition of land for recreation e
Connecting path between Minuteman
bikeway and Minuteman National
Historical Park Trail
e
Acquisition of open space land for
agricultural purposes, such as
community farming
e
11. How do you get information on open space and recreation, such as locations and/or activities, in
Lexington? (check all that apply)
LexMedia (cable) e
Recreation brochure e
Town website e
LexEngage, the Town’s MindMixer site e
Community education brochure e
Social media e
Newspaper e
Other _____________________ (fill in) e
Please return completed surveys by
December 15, 2014
A link to an online version of this survey can be found
on the Town’s website at
www.lexingtonma.gov
Completed surveys can be
dropped off at the
Reference Department of the
Cary Memorial Library or at
the Conservation or Recreation
Departments in Town Hall.
OR
Mailed directly to:
Lexington Recreation
Town Hall
1625 Massachusetts Avenue
Lexington, MA 02420
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Appendices
Appendix B
Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance and Survey
Note: The ADA survey that contains the facility inventory forms is not included here due
to its large size (352 pages). It is available separately upon request.
Appendices
Page Intentionally Left Blank
Appendices
Appendix C
Letters of Approval
Appendices
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April 28, 2015
Renee Guo, AICP
Planner
Vanasse Hangen Brustlin
101 Walnut Street
Watertown, MA 02472
Dear Ms. Guo:
Thank you for submitting the “Town of Lexington Open Space and Recreation Plan Update
2015” to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) for review.
The Division of Conservation Services (DCS) requires that all open space plans must be
submitted to the regional planning agency for review. This review is advisory and only DCS
has the power to approve a municipal open space plan. While DCS reviews open space
plans for compliance with their guidelines, MAPC reviews these plans for their attention to
regional issues generally and more specifically for consistency with MetroFuture, the
regional policy plan for the Boston metropolitan area.
The plan is very comprehensive and represents a high level of detail. The plan is highly
consistent with MetroFuture and it should serve the town well as it continues its efforts to
preserve open space and provide for the recreational needs of its residents.
Thank you for the opportunity to review this plan.
Sincerely,
Marc D. Draisen
Executive Director
Cc: Richard Canale, MAPC Representative, Town of Lexington
Melissa Cryan, Division of Conservation Resources
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