HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-04-05-ATM-CPC-rpt Town of Lexington
Community Preservation Committee
Betsey Weiss, Chair
Joel Adler
Norman Cohen
Marilyn Fenollosa, Vice Chair
Jeanne Krieger
Wendy Manz
Leo McSweeney
Sandra Shaw
Richard Wolk
Nathalie Rice, Admin. Asst.
Article 8 (a-v): Community Preservation Committee
CPA Projects
Article 9: Land Purchase — Off Marrett Road
Report to 2010 Town Meeting
Released April 5, 2010 (updated)
Community Preservation Committee
Annual Town Meeting 2010
The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) is pleased to recommend 21 projects to Town
Meeting for its consideration and approval, as described on the following pages. Each of these
projects was evaluated in light of the articulated criteria for acceptable Community Preservation
Act (CPA) funding as attached to this report and vetted at a public hearing held on January 14,
2010. (There is another project still pending with the CPC=-the purchase of land off Marrett Road
[Cotton Farm].A Public Hearing on that purchase is scheduled for April 8, 2010.)
In addition to these twenty-one projects, the CPC recommends approval of an allocation for
administrative expenses and the Busa Farm Debt Service.
In FY 2009, the CPC worked to define financial policies that would help in project review and
prioritization. The Committee has had financial policy discussions with the finance committees
and the Board of Selectmen regarding minimum target balances for the CPA fund, and the
advantages and disadvantages of cash versus bonding land acquisitions and large projects. With
the help of the Assistant Town Manager of Finance, Rob Addelson, the CPC is creating a financial
planning model to help the CPC budget for future projects.
An important legislative initiative supported by the CPC deserves special mention this year.
Throughout the year, the CPC helped to support Senate Bill 90, an Act to Sustain Community
Preservation. Passage of this bill would increase the State match from its presently estimated
percentage of 31% to 75%, and would expand the definition of recreation to enable existing
recreational resources to receive CPA funding. Six CPC members attended the SB #90 Hearing on
Beacon Hill in late September 2009, and the CPC has been actively involved in lobbying for the
passage of this important legislation. This legislation has moved successfully through the
Comrmttee on Community Development and Small Business and is now in the House Ways and
Means Committee.
Since Lexington adopted the CPA in 2006, the CPC has recommended and Town Meeting has
approved about $14.5 million dollars for CPA funded projects. These funds have supported 28
historic preservation projects,preserved 33.7 acres of open space, created or preserved 7
recreational facilities, and created or supported 170 units of affordable housing.
The CPC is proud to announce that since October 2007, Lexington has received over$5.5 million
dollars in State matching funds.
For further information about the CPC, visit the CPC's page of the Town's website,
http://ci.lexinaon.ma.us/committees/epc/cfm.
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TOWN OF LEXINGTON
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
General Criteria
The Lexington Community Preservation Committee will only consider proposals that are eligible
for Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding according to the requirements described in the
CPA legislation, specifically:
• The acquisition, creation, and preservation of open space.
• The acquisition,preservation,rehabilitation, and restoration of historic resources.
• The acquisition, creation, and preservation of land for recreational use.
• The creation,preservation, and support of community housing (including items such as
annual payments to the housing authority to preserve or expand the affordable housing
supply).
• The rehabilitation and restoration of open space, land for recreational use, and
community housing that is acquired or created using monies from the fund.
Preference will be given to proposals that address as many of the following general criteria as
possible:
• Are consistent with current planning documents that have received wide scrutiny and
input and have been adopted by the town;
• Preserve the essential character of the town as described in the Comprehensive Plan;
• Save resources that would otherwise be threatened and/or serve a currently under-served
population;
• Either serve more than one CPA purpose (especially in linking open space, recreation and
community housing) or demonstrate why serving multiple needs is not feasible;
• Demonstrate practicality and feasibility, and demonstrate that they can be implemented
expeditiously and within budget;
• Produce an advantageous cost/benefit value;
• Leverage additional public and/or private funds;
• Preserve or utilize currently owned town assets; and
• Receive endorsement by other municipal boards or departments.
Category Specific Criteria
Open space proposals that address as many of the following specific criteria as possible will
receive preference:
• Permanently protect important wildlife habitat, including areas that are of local
significance for biodiversity; contain a variety of habitats, with a diversity of geologic
features and types of vegetation; contain a habitat type that is in danger of vanishing from
Lexington; or preserve habitat for threatened or endangered species of plants or animals.
• Provide opportunities for passive recreation and environmental education.
• Preserve and/or restore threatened or deteriorating public lands.
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• Protect or enhance wildlife corridors, promote connectivity of habitat or prevent
fragmentation of habitats.
• Provide connections with existing trails or potential trail linkages.
• Preserve scenic views.
• Border a scenic road.
• Provide flood control/storage.
• Preserve important surface water bodies, including wetlands, vernal pools or riparian
zones.
• Preserve a primary or secondary priority parcel in the Open Space Plan.
Historical Resources proposals that address as many of the following criteria as possible will
receive preference:
• Protect,preserve, enhance,restore and/or rehabilitate historic, cultural, architectural or
archaeological resources of significance, especially those that are threatened.
• Protect,preserve, enhance, restore and/or rehabilitate town-owned properties, features or
resources of historical significance.
• Protect,preserve, enhance, restore and/or rehabilitate the historical function of a property
or site.
• Support the adaptive reuse of historic properties.
• Are within a Lexington Historic District, on a State or National Historic Register, or
eligible for placement on such registers, or on the Lexington Historical Commission's
Cultural Resources Inventory.
• Demonstrate a public benefit.
• Demonstrate the ability to provide permanent protection for maintaining the historic
resource.
Community Housing proposals that address as many of the following criteria as possible will
receive preference:
• Contribute to the goal of maintaining at least 10% affordable housing.
• Promote a socioeconomic environment that encourages diversity.
• Provide housing that is harmonious in design, scale, setting and materials with the
surrounding community.
• Intermingle affordable and market rate housing at levels that exceed state requirements
for percentage of affordable units.
• Ensure long-term affordability.
• Promote use of existing buildings or construction on previously developed or Town-
owned sites.
• Convert market rate to affordable units.
• Give priority to local residents, Town employees, and employees of local businesses.
Recreational Use proposals that address as many of the following criteria as possible will
receive preference:
• Support multiple active and passive recreation uses.
• Serve a significant number of residents.
• Expand the range of recreational opportunities available to Lexington residents of all
ages.
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• Jointly benefit Conservation Commission and Recreation Committee initiatives by
promoting a variety of recreational activities.
0 Maximize the utility of land already owned by Lexington.
• Promote the creative use of railway and other corridors to create safe and.healthful non-
motorized transportation opportunities.
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COMMUNITY PRESERVATION FUND ALLOWABLE SPENDING PURPOSES (Adapted from the DOR,Div.of Local Services)
OPEN SPACE HISTORIC RECREATIONAL COMMUNITY
RESOURCES USE HOUSING
DEFINITIONS Land to protect existing and Building,structure, Land for active or passive Housing for low and
future well fields,aquifers and vessel,real property, recreational use including,but moderate income
recharge areas,watershed document or artifact listed not limited to,the use of land individuals and
land,agricultural land, or eligible for listing on for community gardens,trails, families,including low
grasslands, fields,forest land, the state register of and noncommercial youth and or moderate income
fresh and salt water marshes, historic places or adult sports,and the use of seniors
and other wetlands, ocean, determined by the local land as a park,playground or
river, stream,lake and pond historic preservation athletic field Moderate income is
frontage,beaches,dunes and commission to be less than 100%,and
other coastal lands,lands to significant in the history, Does not include horse or dog low income is less than
protect scenic vistas,land for archeology,architecture racing or the use of land for a 80%,of US HUD Area
wildlife or nature preserve and or culture of the city or stadium,gymnasium or Wide Median Income
land for recreational use town similar structure
ACQUIRE YES YES YES YES
Means obtain by gift,purchase,devise,
grant,rental,rental purchase,lease or
otherwise
CREATE YES -_-_- _,.1 YES YES
PRESERVE YES YES YES YES
Means protect from injury,harm or
destruction,not maintenance
SUPPORT ,, YES,
`® including funding for
community's affordable
m = housingtrust
e
REHABILITATE/RESTORE YES, YES YES, YES,
Means remodel,reconstruct or if acquired or created with CP if acquired or created with CP if acquired or created
extraordinary repair(not maintenance)to funds funds with CP funds
make property functional for their intended
use, including improvements to comply
with federal,state or local building or
access codes or work to comply with U.S.
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for
Rehabilitation(36 C.F.R.Part 68)
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ARTICLE S (a)
Project: Minuteman Bikeway Preservation
CPA Category: Recreational Use/Open Space (50150)
Amount Requested: $320,000
Amount Recommended: $320,000
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
The Minuteman Bikeway was opened in 1993. Over the last sixteen years there has been
deterioration in numerous areas of Lexington's 5.5 mile section of the Bikeway. The deterioration
is the result of a number of factors including improper drainage,root penetration., and erosion. In
addition to the long-term deterioration of the Bikeway, there has been more recent and significant
damage at particular locations. This project will prevent further damage from these problems and
protect and preserve the condition of the Bikeway.Damage will be prevented through the
installation of root barriers, drainage repairs,and swale restoration. The Town's Engineering
Division.,with input from the Bicycle Advisory Committee,has identified key areas that need to
be addressed to prevent further deterioration and to mitigate hazards to users. The work being
proposed is beyond the scope of normal maintenance and is intended to address the problems
caused by increased storm water runoff,erosion, and root heaving along discrete portions of the
path(items not addressed in the initial construction of the Bikeway).Remediation will involve
the installation of swales, culverts and other drainage solutions to address water flow and erosion
control, and selective root pruning and installation of a root barrier to address the root migration
and heaving problems.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• Mitigate pavement erosion,washouts and other damage to preserve the Bikeway.
• Design and build drainage swales in several locations to enhance ground water recharge
and slow street runoff beside the Bikeway into brooks.
• Redesign,improve and/or replace several stream conduits that cross under the Bikeway.
This will improve the health of the brooks while preserving the integrity of the Bikeway
pavement and roadbed.
• Mitigate root heaves on the trail bed caused by growth of large trees along the Bikeway
by cutting roots and installing root barriers in several stretches.
• Preserve usage of the Bikeway with these mitigation measures, keeping it a safe place for
walking, cycling,rollerblading and other recreational activities.
• Preserve this valuable resource for future generations to enjoy.
Project Benefit:
The Minuteman Bikeway has value to the community even beyond its importance as a
recreational resource for Lexington citizens. It is also an economic resource,bringing large
numbers of visitors to and through Lexington during most months of the year.The long-term
viability of the Bikeway is in jeopardy unless the drainage and root problems are properly
addressed.
Funding Request:
This FY 2011 request for$320,000 is to perform necessary drainage and root mitigation.The cost
estimate for this project was developed by the Town's Engineering Division and is based on past
similar projects. This request is in addition to $175,000 appropriated under Article 31(i) from
Annual Town Meeting in 2007 for Bikeway paving, as yet unspent due to a re-examination of the
entire Bikeway project. (Paving does not qualify for CPA funds.)
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ARTICLE 8 (b)
Project: Stormwater Mitigation Old Res./Marrett Road
CPA Category: Recreational Use
Amount Requested: $190,047
Amount Recommended: $190,047
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
In 2007,the Town hired the Louis Berger Group to do a water quality study at the Old Reservoir
on Marrett Road.The Old Reservoir is located in the watershed of the Vine Brook, which is part
of the watershed for the Shawsheen River.The objective of the study was to analyze and
understand the relationship between bacteria concentrations in the Old Reservoir and potential
bacteria sources. The results of the study show that the main source of bacteria entering the
reservoir is stormwater. Stormwater enters the reservoir via four outfalls along Marrett Road.
Two of these outfalls go directly into the reservoir and the other two first enter a detention basin.
In FY 2010, $569,000 of CPA Funds was appropriated to address Phase I of the stormwater
mitigation on Marrett Road by the Old Reservoir. Phase I will improve the water quality of storm
runoff from the drainage areas entering the Old Reservoir via three outfalls along Marrett Road
by expanding the existing retention area,constructing a spillway and constructing a new water
quality structure. This work is scheduled for the spring/summer of 2010.The Phase II request for
FY 2011 is$190,047. This work will include creating a second water quality structure to capture
water in the southwest corner of the facility from the single remaining outfall along Marrett Road.
The Town applied for State DEP 319 funding for this work, but was unsuccessful.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• Preserve the Old Reservoir and its surrounding recreational and open space areas to
enhance both passive and active uses.
• Mitigate stormwater runoff before it enters the Old Reservoir.
• Improve the water quality of the Old Reservoir.
Reduce number of days the swimming area must be closed due to elevated bacteria count.
Project Benefit:
Originally built as the water supply to the Town of Lexington,the Old Reservoir is now used for
both active and passive recreation. The Old Reservoir is an important recreational resource, one
that is used during the summer for swimming, and year round for walking and fishing. During
the school year, teachers from the Bridge School use the 0ld Reservoir as part of the school
science curriculum, and children use the paths to get to and from school.Mitigating the
stormwater runoff is instrumental in preserving the Old Reservoir as a natural resource and an
important recreational area.Improved water quality will also help the Shawsheen Watershed.
Funding Request:
The Town received an engineer's estimate from the Louis Berger Group based on the plan
approved by the Department of Environmental Protection. The FY 2011 request for this Phase 11
project is$190,047.
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ARTICLE 8 (c)
Project: Center Playfields Drainage - Implementation Phase
CPA Category: Recreational Use
Amount Requested: $875,173
Amount Recommended: $875,173
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
The Center Playfields is the most heavily used recreation resource area in Town,one that covers
approximately 23 acres.It hosts a number of youth, adult,recreation and school activities
including football,baseball, softball, soccer,tennis and track(both active for sports and passive
for numerous walkers of all ages). In addition,there is a playground structure, a skate park and a
basketball court. The Center Playfields are a valuable community recreation resource.
Unfortunately,this recreation site was constructed over a peat marsh,which is very poorly
drained and holds water for extended periods. It is a normal occurrence for the grass field areas
and the playground area to have standing water after storm events. This leads to a deterioration of
the turf,which in turn is costly to protect from further damage. Events need to be cancelled or
delayed and use of the site can become limited.This project will consist of implementing the
drainage mitigation solutions (surface drainage, sub-surface drainage, grade changes, swales, etc.)
as outlined by Stantec in their engineering report of October 2009, which is available in the Cary
Memorial Library, and the DPW,Recreation and.CFC offices.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• Implement a three-phase mitigation plan to correct the surface and sub-surface drainage
issues at the Center Playfields. Each phase can be performed separately but all three
phases will tic together to vastly improve the existing site conditions.
• Install drainage systems that move surface runoff more quickly away from the fields and
play areas.
• Preserve this valuable Town Recreation area.
• Protect the fields from injury, harm, or destruction.
Project Benefit:
This project is of great importance and relevance to the community. This project will address the
complicated drainage problems and use the most cost effective approach for remediation to
protect the fields from further injury,harm or destruction.
Funding Request:
This FY 2011 request for$875,173 in CPA funding is to address the baseball and softball field
areas along Worthen Road. Since this project represents the first phase in a three year drainage
mitigation project, it is anticipated that there will be requests to the CPC in the next two years.
The FY 2012 request will be $575,612 to address the football field area, and the FY 2013 request
will be $605,718 to address the track,practice field,parking and little league field areas. These
budget estimates are based on the 2009 engineering report by Stantec referenced above.
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ARTICLE 8 (d)
Project: Greeley Village Siding Replacement
CPA Category: Community Housing
Amount Requested: $386,129
Amount Recommended: $386,129
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
The Lexington Housing Authority is submitting this request for $386,129 for the
replacement of siding at Greeley Village. Greeley Village is a 100 one-bedroom
apartment complex built in 1968 that serves a senior and disabled population. The units
have their original siding,which has deteriorated in many locations,resulting in leakage
into apartments, and most importantly, into door frames. In.winter, such conditions often
result in doors that cannot be fully closed, leading to heat loss and discomfort for
residents. The infiltration of water into the buildings has also caused rot and
deterioration, thereby compromising the buildings' integrity. The Housing Authority's
supervising architect has determined that it will cost$386,129 to remedy these problems.
Greeley Village is an elderly/handicapped low-income public housing apartment complex
with 100 apartments that were first occupied in 1968. As of October 2009, the average
resident's monthly rent was $290 including heat, hot water and electricity. Residents'
annual gross income and was $12,809 as of October 2009. Greeley Village provides
retired seniors and handicapped persons with an affordable place to live.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The goal of this project is to replace the siding on the 100-unit complex which will allow
the Lexington Housing Authority to continue to provide safe, affordable housing for
Lexington seniors and handicapped residents.
Project Benefit:
Greeley Village benefits the senior and disabled population by providing a safe,
affordable place to live. This project, when completed, will benefit the residents of the
community and increase the lifespan of the 100 units in this affordable housing
development.
Funding Request:
The funding request for this project is $386,129.
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ARTICLE 8 (e)
Project: Vynebrooke Village Drainage Study
CPA Category: Community Housing
Amount Requested: $10,000
Amount Recommended: $10,000
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
The Vynebrooke Village is located off Waltham St. and is a 48 unit elderly/handicapped low-
income public housing apartment complex that was first occupied in 1973. As of October 2009,
the average resident's monthly rent was$294 including heat,hot water and electricity. Residents'
annual gross income was $13,283 as of October 2009. The complex is 100 hundred feet from the
Vine Brook in a low-lying area and is subject to frequent inundation from runoff.Because there is
standing water outside the units much of the year, water drains into the 4-foot crawl spaces under
the units. Most units are equipped with sump pumps that are engaged in every heavy rain event.
Water in the crawl spaces is a serious problem, since the electric service and other utilities are
located in these spaces. The water infiltration has also led to mold problems in certain units.
To address this problem, the Housing Authority is proposing to install drainage measures which
will direct water away from the units.The first step in addressing this issue is to hire an engineer
to study the problem and recommend an on-site solution. The initial phase of the project would
cover the study money for this engineering evaluation and for the preparation of plans that are
required to be submitted to the Conservation Commission for review. Initial review of this project
by the Conservation Commission has indicated that a Determination of Applicability will need to
be filed, and calculations will need to be completed by an engineer to estimate the volume of the
re-directed runoff into the storm drain system. The Housing Authority estimates that this phase of
the project will cost$10,000.
Project Goals and Objectives:
It is the goal of this project to eliminate the standing water that ponds outside the Vynebrooke
Village units after each significant rainfall.The initial step in addressing this problem is to
determine the amount of rainfall that needs to be re-directed and to develop a plan to do so.These
calculations and plans can then be reviewed by the Conservation Commission. The ultimate goal
of the project is to stop water infiltration into the basements and eliminate a situation which is
both unsafe and unhealthy.
Project Benefit:
The outcome of this initial study by a civil engineer will give the Housing Authority the data it
needs to move forward into a subsequent phase of implementation/construction. Solving this
drainage problem will allow this development to continue to provide safe,healthy, affordable
housing for Lexington's seniors and disabled population.
Funding Request:
The funding request for this study is $10,000. It is anticipated that this study will be followed
with a request for CPA funding in FY 2012.
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ARTICLE (f)
Project: LexHAB Purchase of Two Properties
CPA Category: Community Housing
Amount Requested: $695,000
Amount Recommended: $6951000
CPC Vote:
Project Description:
LexHAB is requesting$695,000 to support LexHAB with its acquisition of two units for which
the Town will receive affordable housing deed restrictions. The affordable housing restrictions
are real property interests which the Town would be acquiring in consideration for its
appropriation of the CPA funds, and are an express requirement of section 12(a) of the CPA
statute.
142 Emerson Gardens -a two-bedroom, one-bath 830 square foot unit on two floors with access
within the unit, a finished room in the basement, %z bath, laundry and storage and built in 1965. The
unit is within walking distance of an MBTA bus stop and was purchased for$295,000.
• 454 Marrett Road—a three-bedroom, one-bath 1,186 square foot two-floor single family
home on a .56 acre lot, on the MBIA bus route.The home was built in 1930 and has a full attic
and basement. The floors are hardwood but need refinishing. The kitchen and basement are
antiquated and require work for safety reasons. The original 60-amp wiring has never been
updated and must be brought up to code.The house was purchased for$400,000.
The Selectmen and LexHAB have redesigned the method of advertising and selecting renters for CPA-
funded properties in compliance with current state requirements.This will enable the Town to pursue
having the two units count toward the 10% low and moderate-income housing,the so-called 40B
requirement, and to be included on the State's Subsidized Housing Inventory.
Project Goals and Objectives:
As of October 2009,LexHAB owned 61 housing units and was providing housing for 150 persons.
Approximately 84% of these households (50 of the 56 LexHAB occupied units)had a previous Lexington
connection when they moved into LexHAB housing. LexHAB-owned housing units range from 4-bedroom
scattered site homes to one-bedroom condominiums. To date,LexHAB has been supported through its
rents,Town linkage funds, and CPA funding. In addition to the costs of building and maintaining housing
units and condo fees, LexHAB pays all its own office rent,legal fees, and salary for a part time office
manager.
LexHAB traditionally provides housing to persons making up to 80% of the Boston Area Median Income as
set by the federal government which is $66,150 for a 4-person family. It is anticipated that the housing units
for which funding is being sought for FY 2011 will be rented to applicants making no more than 60%of the
Boston Area Median Income which is $54,120 for a 4 person family,thus enabling families with lower
incomes to find housing in Town.
Project Benefit:
To support LexHAB with its acquisition of two units, for which the Town will receive affordable housing
deed restrictions.These two units increase the Town's abihty to meet the housing needs of families with
lower incomes and is an objective noted in the Town's Comprehensive Plan.
Funding Request: The funding request for this project is $695,000. This request includes $295,000
for142 Emerson Gardens and$400,000 for 454 Marrett Road. LexHAB has covered interest, closing and
rehabilitation costs for both units which amounts to approximately$87,615.
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ARTICLE 8 (g)
Project: Archives and Records Management/Conservation
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $150,000
Amount Recommended: $150,000
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
This is year 3 of an anticipated 5-year request for conservation and preservation of
historic municipal documents and records. This project addresses the Town's need to
protect and secure the vital records created by municipal departments for proper
retention, archiving and perpetual access.Years of records generated by departments
require microfilming, scanning and conservation/preservation. Work to be completed
during a 5-year project will provide the basis for virtual exhibits as we celebrate the 300tH
anniversary of Lexington's incorporation. An annual request of$150,000, deemed
eligible for CPA funding, is made for contractual services, equipment, and archival
materials required for the completion of records treatment, filming, information/data
migration and digitization. The main vault at Cary Hall, enhanced with moveable
shelving, fire protection, and climate control (work funded by the CPA),has been
established as a core facility for proper retention, retrieval and permanent archiving of
valuable permanent and historic information.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• Proper documentation of Lexington's history for future generations through a
multi-year project to preserve, conserve and protect Lexington's historical
documents and materials for perpetual access through digital media.
Project Benefit:
A large majority of the Town's historical records has been neglected over time. Volumes
of records have been created and exist,with little or no security provisions, only in hard
copy. The proper retention and archival storage environments have been completed in the
Cary Memorial Building. While reorganizing and documenting records to be archived,
the time is right to complete microfilming, digitization and conservation measures to
provide for access, reference/use and permanent retention. Annual funding request of
$150,000 will be allocated to conservation/preservation, equipment/supplies, and
microfilming/digitization, consulting services and computerization/data migration. The
preservation and conservation of permanent records for archiving creates the basis for
documenting Lexington's history for the future.
Funding Request:
The funding request for this project is $150,000.
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ARTICLE 8 (h)
Project: Cary Library Preservation Project-Archives
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $100,000
Amount recommended: $100,000
CPC Vote: (8-0-1)
Project Description:
The Library seeks to build a secure, climate-controlled, fireproof vault in an existing
storage room to protect and preserve valuable Lexington-related historic materials,
especially the Worthen Collection. While the Town has taken steps to secure its
municipal records, the Library still has volumes of unprotected historic documents in its
collection. A climate controlled vault would ensure long-term preservation of these
valuable Library documents.
Project Goals and Objectives:
Plans for the renovated 2004 Library building included a secure, climate-controlled
environment to house all historic collections. This vault was eventually eliminated from
the building project due to budgetary reasons. However, based on recommendations from
a FY 2008 LSTA(Library Services and Technology Act) Grant Funded Preservation
Survey Report(November, 2008) and actions identified in the Cary Memorial Library
Preservation Action Plan(October, 2009), the Library needs this secure, climate-
controlled environment to protect and preserve its historic materials. These materials are
currently housed in three historic rooms on the main floor where temperature and
humidity levels are inconsistent.
Project Benefit:
Lexington is a community rich in history. The Library serves as a steward for several
local history collections,most notably the irreplaceable Worthen Collection, an archive
of research materials on the history of Lexington. Proper storage is necessary for long
term preservation of these materials. For further protection,programs such as digitization
are being developed to provide alternate sources of access to many of the items.
Funding Request:
This request is for $100,000. $10,000 of this amount represents design costs and$90,000
represents construction costs. The total cost is an estimate based on a similar project that
has been recently completed in the Cary Memorial Building.
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ARTICLE S (i)
Project: Cary Memorial Building—Improvements/Upgrades - Study
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $60,000
Amount Recommended: $60,000
CPC Vote: (7-2)
Project Description:
This project is requesting funds to study Cary Memorial Hall and Building as a public meeting
and venue space after its recent use as a temporary library and storage area for building
maintenance. This project recommends a study be performed to develop a plan and cost estimates
that will identify needed upgrades and restoration opportunities to improve the functionality of
the building for performers and exhibitors as well as its use as a public meeting space. The study
will also examine ways to improve accessibility.
Project Goals and Objectives: .
The goal of the project is to perform a comprehensive review of the building,building systems,
code review, and a theatrical review resulting in a comprehensive report of recommendations and
costs.
Project Benefit:
The Cary Memorial Building was constructed in 1927. Accessibility improvements were
implemented in 1985 and a renovation was implemented in 2000 for temporary library use. 2007
Town Meeting authorized$147,130 in CPA funds for Cary Memorial Building improvements,
which included$80,000 to perform a variety of studies on the building. A$7,500 feasibility study
was first done to see if Cary Hall could be a performance center but it was not economically
feasible to proceed, so the remaining$72,500 study money was not spent. $3,196 was spent on
blackout curtains and$57,561 for stage extensions and lighting over the stage extensions.
$78,873 was not expended from the CPA fund, due to the study's conclusion.
Detailed drawings from 1927 show the spaces that were designed in support of performances in
the Hall. Over the years,the cloak room, the scenery dock, the dressing rooms,the ticket booths,
the exhibition hall, and the smoking room have all been converted to other uses. The stage area,
including lighting and the stage, also needs to be studied to ensure its functionality for all of the
performing arts. In addition, the restrooms need updating and improvements to accessibility
should be investigated. Many of the uses of the Hall are video taped and/or broadcast over cable
television.The HVAC system is often turned off during these performances so that "noise" from
the system does not interfere with the taping and broadcast. The study will include evaluation of
the mechanical systems to determine how to eliminate this conflict.
Funding Request:
This project is requesting$60,000 in CPA funds to perform a study by an architect with expertise
in historic structures who will utilize sub-consultants for other disciplines to assess needed
upgrades to the building. It is likely that this study will be followed in subsequent years with a
CPA funding request
14
ARTICLE S (j)
Project: Cary Memorial Building Signage
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $25,000
Amount Recommended: $25,000
CPC Vote: (6-3)
Project Description:
This project is to install approximately 20 professional signs that provide directional information
to guide visitors to the Cary Memorial Building. Signage will be attractive, consistent, and
appropriate for the historical character of the building.
Interior signage will include building directories on front lobby pillars and ADA-compliant room
signs. These signs will provide directions from the front lobby to the elevator and to the
appropriate stairway to access individual rooms. Interior signs will be of similar design to the
signs installed in the Town Office Building in the spring of 2009,with removable strips so
maintenance staff can change signs to reflect space use changes.
• Exterior signage will include identification signs on all three buildings: Police Station,
Cary Memorial Building, and Town Office Building. These signs will provide each
building's name and street address.A post-mounted "campus" sign identifying the three
buildings and accessible parking locations will be installed at the entrance to the
semicircle driveway. Building identification signs and the campus sign will be fabricated
with exterior grade materials, and the campus sign will be lighted in the evening.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• To minimize the confusion experienced by people looking for a performance venue,
office, or meeting room by clearly identifying the three brick buildings on the semicircle
drive.
• To efficiently and effectively direct visitors within the Cary Memorial Building.
Project Benefit:
Public use of the historic Cary Memorial Building has increased significantly since its recent
renovation, consistent with its historic function as community activity space. Performing groups
frequently use Cary Hall,recreation programs use the ground floor spaces, and boards and
committees use the four accessible meeting rooms. Currently,there is virtually no directional
signage for people entering the front lobby,which causes confusion for people attending public
meetings or programs.
Exterior signage for the three brick buildings sharing the semicircular driveway is long overdue
because at present the only identification on the buildings is gold lettering on the frieze at the top
of the building facades.The public frequently confuses Cary Hall and the Town Office Building,
and people who are looking for a Town office or department are unsure which building to enter.
The "campus" sign will give drivers entering the semi-circular driveway the building locations
and information about accessible parking.
Funding Request:
$25,000 is requested for fabrication, delivery and installation of approximately 20 signs at the
Cary Memorial Building.
15
ARTICLE S (k)
Project: Municipal Building Envelope
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $73,000
Amount Recommended: $73,000
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
The Department of Public Facilities is requesting$73,000 in CPA funds to perform extraordinary
repairs at the Town Office Building and Cary Memorial Building. In addition to the extraordinary
repairs, a Massachusetts Historical Commission Inventory Form`B"will be completed for both
buildings.
Project Goals and Objectives:
1. Cary Memorial Building($27,000) -Replace 1,350 square feet of built-up flat roof. The
replacement of these two roofs is part of the Public Facilities roofing Master Plan. The
two roofs are over the east and west front stairwells.
2. Cary Memorial Building($20,000) -Restore ornamental fans at the intersection of the
architrave and the stairwell roofs. One ornamental fan is in storage and the second will be
reconstructed to match the original. Original paint colors will also be restored.
3. Town Office Building($22,000) -Replace three copper valleys. These copper valleys
were observed to need replacement during the extraordinary repair of the roof during the
summer of 2009.
4. Services of an Architect($4,000) -that specializes in Historic Structures to fully
document the Town Office Building and Cary Memorial Building as per Massachusetts
Historical Commission Inventory Form`B".
Project Benefit:
2008 Town Meeting authorized $95,000 in CPA funds and $30,000 from the tax levy to
implement building envelope extraordinary repairs (copper ridge vents, gutters, downspouts) and
painting of the Town Office Complex. During the implementation of the project during the
summer of 2009,Public Facilities identified additional work to be performed that exceeded the
original scope.This additional scope includes three copper valleys on the Town Office Building
slate roof and restoring elements of Cary Memorial Building that had been eliminated during
previous repairs.This restoration work will include restoring original building details that will
enhance the appearance of the Town Office Complex.
Funding Request:
The total funding request for this project is $73,000 and is estimated as shown above (See
numbers 1 -4). This CPA appropriation of$73,000 will be augmented by an additional amount of
$161,534, which is to be funded from the tax levy under Article 16(h). The total appropriation for
this project is therefore$234,543.
16
ARTICLE 8 (1)
Project: Town Office Building Renovation
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $1,823,881
Amount Recommended: $1,500,000
CPC Vote: (6-3)
Project Description:
The Town Office Building was built in 1927 and the rear wing was added in 1971.The relocation
of the Department of Public Works/Engineering Division to the new Public Services Building
represents the most significant shift of offices in the Town Hall for nearly 40 years and provides
an opportunity to address a number of code and space allocation issues within this building.
In 2008,Annual Town Meeting approved$80,000 for a space programming and design study
through construction documents and $30,000 in supplemental funds at the 2009 Annual Town
Meeting.The architectural firm of Bargmann,Hendrie and Archetype(BH+A) is working to
conduct the architectural and engineering portion of this work.To date,the code evaluation and
programming of space needs and building use work has been completed. Town staff has worked
with the architects and with the Town Manager's Office, and a preferred design concept has been
determined. This FY 2011 CPC request will lead to the implementation of the preferred design
and the ultimate completion of renovations to the Town Office Building.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• To improve accessibility in keeping with ADA standards and code compliance
(65% of project costs).
o All entrances will be handicapped accessible.
o Accessible ADA restrooms will be available on all levels.
o All customer service/transaction counters will be made ADA
accessible.
o Railings and doorways will be upgraded to comply with ADA
standards.
o Life-safety fire suppression systems will be expanded.
• Limited changes will be incorporated to department adjacencies to foster a more efficient
working environment, (35% of project costs).
o To provide better space planning and improved ability to respond to
impending changes in records storage requirement laws.
Project Benefit:
The benefit will be an ADA and code compliant Town Office Building with improved efficiency
and effectiveness for serving the customers and staff,thus ensuring that the building remains fully
functional for its intended use.
Funding Request:
The funding request for the project was $1,823,881,based upon design and cost estimates
submitted to the CPC in early March. The CPC voted on March 22",to fund $1,500,000 of the
funding request.
17
ARTICLE S {m}
Project: Cary Memorial Building/TOB HVAC Controls Upgrade
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $35,000
Amount Recommended: $35,000
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
The Department of Public Facilities is requesting $35,000 in CPA funds to perform
extraordinary repairs at the Town Office Building and Cary Memorial Building to
upgrade existing pneumatic controls to digital controls and to add new valves,
thermostats and software to enable more efficient operation of the HVAC system.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The goals and objectives of this project include installing digital temperature controls in
the Cary Memorial Building that will enable schedules to be developed to control space
temperatures that coincide with scheduled occupancies. In addition, digital thermostats
and automatic control valves will also be installed at Cary Memorial Building to control
individual spaces to Lexington Energy Use Guidelines. The final objective is to integrate
the digital controls for the Town Office Building with the new digital controls for the
Cary Memorial Building in order to operate the heating and cooling plant in Cary
Memorial Building, (which serves both buildings), more efficiently.
Project Benefit:
The existing Cary Memorial Building pneumatic temperature controls and manually
operated zone valves inhibit efficient operation of the heating and cooling system,
resulting in poor occupant comfort. The proposed improvements to the system will result
in improved temperature control for public uses of the building and in reduced energy
costs of approximately $5,000 annually.
Funding Request:
The project requests $35,000 in CPA funds to be used to implement digital HVAC
controls, thermostats, automated zone valves, and software for improved HVAC
operation.
18
ARTICLE 8 (n)
Project: Police Station Ventilation System
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $31,700
Amount Recommended: $31,700
CPC Vote: (6-3)
Project Description:
This project is requesting funds to replace the Police Station lower level ventilation unit
with a higher rated fan and motor to achieve required ventilation. The existing unit is
undersized and cannot deliver design airflows. As a result, the lower level, including
holding cells, is not being adequately ventilated, resulting in insufficient fresh air and
odor control. In addition, air conditioning will be installed to control relative humidity
levels in the summer months. This project will also include an update of the
Massachusetts Historical Commission Inventory Form "B".
Project Goals and Objectives:
Police Station audits have reported that the ventilation of the holding cells is inadequate.
The goal of the project is to achieve design flow rates.
Project Benefit:
The existing unit cannot deliver required airflow due to the pressure drop of the installed
ductwork. The new fan and motor will be rated to operate with the installed ductwork and
achieve design airflow. The existing system was installed in 1994.; during the past fifteen
years, the failure of the system to adequately vent the cell-block has been an impediment
to operations and an unhealthy condition for detainees. This lack of air flow must be
corrected. Outside air is heated when necessary, but not cooled. During summer months,
lack of air conditioning allows saturated air to condense on cool, sub grade surfaces.
Funding Request:
The project requests $31,700 in CPA funds to be used to implement extraordinary repairs
to the Police Station's lower level HVAC and to update the Massachusetts Historical
Commission Inventory Form `B".
19
ARTICLE S (o)
Project: Muzzey Senior Center Improvement Study
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $45,100
Amount Recommended: $45,1.00
CPC Vote: (7-2)
Project Description:
This project requests funding to address critical building improvements needed in the
areas of life safety, accessibility and programming space at the Lexington Senior Center,
located at the Muzzey Condominium at 1475 Massachusetts Avenue. The project will be
implemented in two phases, the first being this FY 2011 request for design development
funds, and the second for a FY 2012 request for building funds, currently estimated at
$251,600. The current Muzzey Senior Center space does not meet the standards of the
MAAB (Massachusetts Architectural Access Board) and presents unsafe conditions for
users of the space. Included in the design project would be the:
• Redesign of communicating staircase and installation of a wheelchair lift
• Replacement of the HVAC system.
• Redesign of the program spaces for expansion, improve lighting and signage.
• Correction of all violations of MAAB, including enclosing exposed steel beams.
The above issues have been identified and described in two studies: (1) TBA Architects,
Inc., Waltham, MA, Apri19, 2008: Envelope and Systems Analysis of the Muzzey
Condominium, and(2)Bargmann Hendrie+Archetype, Inc., Boston, MA, 2008: Muzzey
Senior Center and White House Conceptual and Feasibility Study.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• Eliminate unsafe stairway conditions and provide handicapped access to both
levels of the Muzzey Senior Center.
Provide an energy efficient space for Senior Center participants and staff.
• Bring Muzzey Senior Center into compliance with fire safety codes.
Project Benefit:
The redesign of the communicating staircase will benefit users of the Muzzey Senior
Center by providing safe access to both levels and will enlarge usable program space. A
new HVAC system will not only improve comfort but will result in a reduction in energy
costs. Compliance with the fire code will benefit the safety of seniors, residents and
firefighters and decrease property damage in the event of a fire.
Funding Request:
The request for the initial phase of this project is $45,100 to fund a design development
study.
20
ARTICLE 8 (p)
Project: White House Historic Structure Report
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: 518,000
Amount Recommended: $18,000
CPC Vote: (6-3)
Project Description:
This project requests $18,000 in Community Preservation Act funds to prepare a limited
Historic Structure Report (HSR) for the "White House" at 1557 Massachusetts Avenue.
The first step will require hiring a historic preservation architectural firm who will
prepare a history of the property, construction history, evaluation of architectural
significance, existing conditions report, and proposed work for building stabilization.
(Historic Structure Reports which provide valuable information on the historic fabric of a
building have been completed for the Stone Building, Hancock-Clarke House, and the.
Munroe Tavern.)
Project Goals and Objectives:
The goal of the project is to prepare a limited HSR to identify the significant historic
attributes of the "White House", and through a public process, to determine the elements
of the structure that require stabilization and protection while the future use of the
building and site is determined.
Project Benefit:
Renovation and maintenance of the "White House"has been deferred for many years.
The building, located at the entrance to the business district, is in significant disrepair.
Studies have been conducted previously, for the School Department and for the Council
on Aging, to determine if the building and site could be renovated and developed to meet
their program needs. Neither of these projects has proceeded beyond the study phase.
These studies served their purpose in developing options to renovate the building for a
specific purpose (program) and to inform the public of these options and costs..
The HSR will study the building and its history to inform the community and assist in
determining the type of necessary maintenance and stabilization that is warranted. These
costs will likely be presented for FY 2012 CPA funding. The HSR will also be a planning
document for future programming efforts.
Funding Request:
The project requests $18,000 in CPA funds to prepare the limited HSR report.
21
ARTICLE 8 (q)
Project: Stone Building Exterior Stabilization
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $202,933
Amount Recommended: $202,933
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
This project is requesting funds to stabilize the Stone Building. A Historic Structure
Report (HSR) was completed by Menders, Torrey, and Spencer during the summer of
2009. The HSR recommended immediate stabilization work, winterization of the
building, which was completed in the fall of 2009 for approximately$12,000 and
$40,000 was used to complete an HSR. The HSR detailed additional necessary, exterior
stabilization work which includes a new roof, gutters, removal of aluminum siding,
repair and painting of wood siding, and re-glazing of windows. This necessary, exterior
stabilization work should be completed during the summer of 2010 and will cost
$202,933. During 2009 ATM, Town Meeting authorized$180,000 in CPA funds for FY
2010 to perform the work outlined in the HSR needed to stabilize the building. However,
after the HSR was completed, it was determined that $202,933 was needed to complete
the exterior work on the building. Therefore, approximately $128,000 of the FY 2010
authorization has not been spent and will be returned to the CPA fund, so the net
cost to the Community Preservation Fund (CPF) is approximately $75,000.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The goal of the project is to stabilize the building envelope and protect this historic
structure while the future use of the building is determined.
Project Benefit:
The 2009 HSR report recommended that if the Town should decide to defer renovation
and redevelopment of the Stone Building beyond the summer of 2010, then the building
should be stabilized in 2010 to prevent the potential of water damage from leaks in the
building envelope. Although the plan to utilize the Stone Building as a Heritage
Collaborative is still in development, the value of stabilizing the building exterior at this
time will not be lost in future construction/renovation should the Town decide to renovate
the building interior and add an addition on the back of the building. Deferring the
stabilization increases the risk of damage to the building from leaks in the building
envelope and delays the opportunity to improve the aesthetics of the structure for the
surrounding neighborhood.
Funding Request:
This project requests $202,933 in CPA funds to complete the building envelope
stabilization. This funding request includes $2,000 to update the Massachusetts Historical
Commission Inventory Form "B".
22
ARTICLE 8 (r}
Project: Munroe Tavern Capital Improvements
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $400,000
Amount Recommended: up to $400,000
CPC Vote:
Project Description:
hi 2009, with the assistance of Community Preservation Act funds,the Lexington Historical
Society undertook a Historic Structure Report and Building Needs Assessment of the Munroe
Tavern, one of the most significant historic structures in Lexington. Based on the Building Needs
Assessment,the Society has developed a plan for the restoration and renovation of the Munroe
Tavern within its existing footprint. This will include:
• Repairs and restoration of the historic fabric, including the restoration of the Colonial
fireplace, covered over in 1860, and recently rediscovered;
• Renovation of under utilized space to create a museum room that will accommodate
visitor reception and school groups;
• Installation of a public restroom;
• Handicapped accessibility to the both the first and second floors of the structure;
• Systems replacement and upgrading, including the provision of heat for the first time to
the house museum, climate control to protect artifacts,complete re-wiring of the house,
and replacement of the 90-year-old sprinkler system;
• Augmentation of current collections storage with a basement level facility and a second
floor addition over the museum room.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The goals and objectives of this project are to:
• Provide adequate visitor facilities;
• Provide handicapped accessibility to both floors of the house, so all visitors can
experience the entire tour;
• Create a comfortable environment that accommodates school groups;
+ Re-capture historic features, including the Colonial kitchen fireplace and the foundations
of the old Masonic Hall, and repair and replace historic fabric;
• Update outdated and unsafe systems;
• Create an expanded collections storage facility with museum-quality climate-control.
Project Benefit:
This project meets virtually all of the"Category Specific Criteria" for historical projects under the
Lexington CPA guidelines.Munroe Tavern is one of the community's most significant historic
structures,the anchor of the Munroe Tavern Historic District, and is on the Federal and State
Registers of Historic Places.The Tavern is visited by thousands annually, and visitation is
growing. The Lexington Historical Society has a long history of providing permanent protection
for the Town's historic resources.
Funding Request:
The funding request for this project is for an amount up to $400,000, or half of the total cost of
project, currently estimated at$820,054. The balance of the funding will be raised by the
Historical Society.
23
ARTICLE 8 (s)
Project: Comprehensive Cultural Resources Survey of Lexington—
Supplemental Appropriation
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $5,300
Amount Recommended: $5,300
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
In FY 2007, Town Meeting approved a$90,000 grant to the Lexington Historical Commission
(LHC)to complete, consolidate and organize in a resident-friendly form the architectural and
historical information about Lexington's important cultural resources. This project is now in its
final stages, with much of the information completed and posted on the Town website.The final
phase will entail completion and submission of a nomination form requested by the
Massachusetts Historical Commission(MHC)to list Lexington's Mid-Century Modern
Neighborhoods and Houses on the National Register of Historic Places. The MHC has invited the
Lexington Historical Commission to apply for a$15,000 grant to complete this nomination; this
CPA grant of$5,300,together with $4,875 in unspent funds from the earlier phases of the project,
will provide the required 40%match. (The additional$175 is to cover advertising for a qualified
consultant in accordance with public bidding requirements.)The Lexington Historical
Commission received notice that the$15,000 MHC grant was awarded on March 10,2010,
contingent upon receiving CPA matching funds.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The original project's goals included the identification and prioritization of incomplete or
undocumented buildings; the establishment of a uniform and comprehensive record of these
properties; and the consolidation of the survey information into a format that would be easily
available to Lexington residents as an important reference source. This supplemental project
would acknowledge Lexington's role in the Mid Century Modern movement by further
documenting the number and variety of Lexington's modern residential subdivisions and the
pioneering model that developments such as Moon Hill and Peacock Farm represented in the
post-War housing boom. The additional research and documentation would be synthesized in a
nomination form for the National Register of Historic Places. One neighborhood, and a limited
number of individual homes, would be highlighted,with the possibility of later supplementation
with other Modernist neighborhoods and homes. In all cases,neighborhoods and individual
buildings would only be included with the consent of the homeowners.
Project Benefit:
Structures of the recent past Moon Hill, Five Fields and the Peacock Farm enclaves throughout
Town, among others—have enhanced Lexington's diverse architectural heritage for over half a
century. The existence of a comprehensive guide to Lexington Mid Century Modern architecture
and neighborhoods will educate members of the community about these important resources and
complement the Town's vision for the quality of life of its residents and the diversity of its
resources.
Funding Request:
This project requests $5,300 in supplemental funds.
24
ARTICLE 8 (t)
Project: Battle Green Master Plan - Study
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $25,000
Amount Recommended: $25,000
CPC Vote: (8-1)
Project Description:
A study of the Battle Green funded by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Management, as part of their"Town Commons Preservation Initiative", stated in 2001 that, "in
addition to being a central public open space for town,the Battle Green is a national shrine, an
important historical marker from the beginning of our nation."Among the 26 places the DEM
assessed,Lexington was unique in that it"serves a local and a national purpose."The main issue
identified in the study was the appropriate use of the Battle Green, and the highest priority was
"interpreting the site in a coherent, legible and consistent manner." While some progress has
been made conserving the monument and Statue,by and large the recommendations contained in
this report have not been addressed.The report concluded that the"lack of a broad-based
coordinated stewardship of the site creates `turf wars,' [and] fractures approach"to stewardship
of the site. The two solutions proposed by the study were to create a comprehensive planning
effort, and to identify an oversight committee with authority to coordinate all decisions and
integrate community viewpoints.
In 2008, the Selectmen authorized the Tourism Committee to conduct a broadly inclusive process
to develop a Master Plan for the Battle Green. For the last year the Battle Green Master Plan
Committee has been inviting feedback from various organizations,business forums and citizens
groups throughout the Town. However, it has become clear through this process that a
professional consultant with historic landscape experience is needed to guide the master planning
process and bring the Master Plan to completion. This CPA request would provide funds to
engage such a consultant.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• Create Master Plan with immediate,intermediate, and long-term visions based on broad
community input.
o Define the Battle Green Area,what it should look like in 50 years, and its
allowable uses.
o Develop guidelines for making informed decisions for design standards,traffic
flow, and parking
o Update rules and regulations for approval.
• Develop an annotated bibliography of all prior reports/resources on the Battle Green.
• Identify a public-private funding strategy to implement the plan.
• Put in place a stewardship structure/oversight committee to ensure the plan is followed.
Project Benefit:
Creating a Master Plan will ensure that we preserve the Battle Green for future generations of
Lexington residents and for those who view it as a national treasure.
Funding Request:
The funding requested for this project is $25,000,which includes a 10% contingency.
25
ARTICLE 8 (u)
Request: Busa Farm Debt Service
CPA Category: Undesignated Fund Balance
Amount Requested: $2,562,100
Amount Recommended: $2,562,100
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Background:
Under Article 6 at Special Town Meeting in 2009, voters approved the acquisition of the
Busa Farm on Lowell Street. The motion for this acquisition(1) authorized the Treasurer
to borrow $4,197,000 for the purchase of the land, (2) appropriated $98,000 from
Undesignated Fund Balance of the Community Preservation Fund for debt service and
related borrowing costs, and(3) authorized the Selectmen to lease all or part of the land
for the next three years.
Funding:
To fund this acquisition, the Town issued a three-year bond for $4,197,000 in February of
2010. The first year of debt service (payment of principal and interest) will fall in fiscal
year 2011 in the amount of$2,562,100. In fiscal years 2012 and 2013, debt service will
be $974,600 and $930,300,respectively. Requests for funds to finance FY 2012 and FY
2013 will appear in the CPC Report for the next two years until the bond is paid off.
As noted above, Article 6 of the 2009 Special Town Meeting specified that $98,000 be
appropriated for debt service costs. A portion of this amount was for anticipated debt
service on short term borrowing as well as for short and long-term financing issuance
costs. Due to delays in the purchase of the property, it was determined that short-term
financing was not needed. Further, it was determined that the $98,000 was not needed to
cover the Busa portion of the issuance costs. The Busa bond was a portion of a
$10,447,000 Town bond that was sold successfully at a$608,123 premium plus interest.
The Town plans to use part of that premium and interest to cover the bond-issuance costs
in total. Therefore, the $98,000 voted on at the 2009 Special Town Meeting will be
returned to the Undesignated Fund Balance of the Community Preservation Fund.
An update on the status of the Busa Farm project is given under"Status Report on FY
2010 CPA Projects"later in this report.
26
ARTICLE 8 (v)
Request: Administrative Expenses
CPA Category: Administrative
Amount Requested: $150,000
Amount Recommended: $150,000
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Background:
According to the Community Preservation Act,up to 5%of annual CPA surcharge and State
matching funds may be spent on the operation and administration costs of the Community
Preservation Committee.The Committee is allowed to use this money to pay for staff salaries,
mailings,public notices, overhead, legal fees,membership dues, and other miscellaneous
expenses related to CPA projects. At 5%, a maximum of$204,735 of annual revenue in FY 2011
could be authorized for this purpose. At this time, however, the CPC is requesting an
appropriation of only$150,000 for FY 2011.This money will be used to fund our part-time
Administrative Assistant,to pay membership dues to the non-profit Community Preservation
Coalition,to cover administrative expenses,to cover legal and miscellaneous expenses related to
CPA-sponsored projects, and to pay for land planning and legal fees for open space proposed to
be acquired using Community Preservation Funds.
The CPC's part-time Administrative Assistant tracks and monitors all Town Meeting approved
and CPA sponsored projects; monitors draw-downs and financial transactions in conjunction with
the Finance Office; drafts and updates CPA reports and correspondence; oversees the annual CPA
project application process;posts meetings and schedules public forums; takes minutes of the
CPC public hearings; works with the Assessor's Office to obtain surcharge abatement data
needed for State reporting purposes; communicates with project applicants; and assists the CPC
and others, as needed,with all CPA related activities and agreements.The FY 2011 three-day a
week salary cost for the administrative position totals $ 39,851with benefits.
Membership dues, which are $7,500, are paid to the Community Preservation Coalition. The
Community Preservation Coalition, a non-profit statewide organization,responds to questions,
provides CPA news and information to participating communities, and engages in legislative
advocacy and lobbying work to improve the effectiveness of the Act. The Coalition also helps to
defend the CPA Trust Fund and works to defeat bills that propose non-constructive CPA
amendments. Their web site is www.communi reservation.or .
In FY 2011,the Committee anticipates incurring legal fees for the review of its projects,the
drafting of conservation and deed restrictions,the drafting of grant agreements for historic and
affordable housing projects and legal advice in light of changes and/or challenges to the CPA
statute.
The Committee has designated$50,000 of its administrative budget for the planning, conceptual
plan development, legal, survey and appraisal work associated with the acquisition of open space.
Such funds enable the Conservation Division to act in a timely fashion to complete the due
diligence required to prepare for a land acquisition.
Funding Request:
The CPC requests $150,000 for administrative expenses.Note: according to the Department of
Revenue, funds appropriated for administrative expenses but not spent in a given fiscal year
revert to the CPA Undesignated Fund Balance on June 30.Those funds can then be appropriated
from the Undesignated Fund Balance in subsequent years for any other CPA purpose.
27
ARTICLE 9
Request: Land Acquisition
CPA Category: Open Space
Amount Requested: $3,857,000 (subject to final negotiations)
Amount Recommended: (pending)
CPC Vote: (pending)
Project Description:
This project requests funding under Article 9 for the purchase of a portion of a parcel of land and its
associated due diligence and land planning costs.The costs for this acquisition break down as follows:
acquisition-$3,800,000; survey/legal/assessment- $32,000; land management planning and
implementation -$25,000. The total of$3,857,000 covers all anticipated costs for this project.The
acquisition price for this parcel is below the appraised value of the property($4,400,000).
The parcel of land at 121 Marrett Road, commonly known as the"Cotton Farm"is a 10.2-acre
parcel,located on the north side of Marrett Road and west of Tricorne Road. It is abutted to the
north and west by the Upper Vine Brook Conservation Area. It is listed in the 2006 Lexington
Reconnaissance Report for the Massachusetts Heritage Landscape Inventory Progam as desirable
for preservation to create a link to an important open space corridor in the eastern part of
Lexington. The property is attractive, scenic,high quality upland along the edge of the Upper
Vine Brook Conservation Area,with grassy field, orchard and oak woods. It is an important link
between Dunback Meadow and the upland at Upper Vine Brook. It makes possible a trail linking
the two, enabling one to walk from the Bowman School neighborhood all the way to Highland
Avenue on Munroe Hill, and then into Lexington Center.
This project consists of purchasing an approximate 4.2 acre portion of the property offering the
greatest conservation value,the western portion of the property,to the west of lot 93 from Marrett
Road northerly to the edge of lot 90C. In addition, the Town will acquire at no additional cost the
following: a deed restriction prohibiting structures except for a roadway and utilities on the
remaining Marrett Road frontage to the east of lot 93; a deed restriction on the number of houses
that can be constructed on 4 acres of back land; and a 14.5 acre lot on Hartwell Avenue(Map 80,
Lot 2)which abutting conservation land, including the recent Goodwin parcel purchase.
Project Goals and Objectives:
• Acquire property that is contiguous to existing Town conservation land;
• Preserve and protect attractive, scenic,upland with grassy field, orchard and oak woods;
• Increase passive recreational opportunities for visitors to Upper Vine Brook Conservation Area,
• Create an important link between Dunback Meadow Conservation Area and the upland at
Upper Vine Brook.
Project Benefit:
The purchase will benefit Lexington by preserving additional high quality upland open space,
promoting passive recreational activities, and creating an important link between existing Town
conservation land.Protecting the property in perpetuity will benefit the Town's residents,wildlife,and
waterways by conserving an additional 4.2 acres of open space.
Funding Request:
The project is requesting a total of$3,857,000 in CPA funds from the open space reserve for 4.2 acres
of land.
28
Status Report on FY 2010 CPA Projects
Center Playfields Drainage Study
This project was initially funded by Annual Town Meeting in 2007 for$40,000. Under
that appropriation, Tutela Engineering completed the first phase of a drainage study of
the Center Playfields area and issued their report in January, 2009. Their total estimated
project cost was $3,625,000. Based on their report, a subsequent appropriation was
sought at ATM 2009 to develop mitigation solutions and costs for implementation. This
appropriation was approved at 2009 Annual Town Meeting for$70,000 and Stantec, an
engineering firm,was contracted to develop proposed mitigation measures and put
together a cost estimate. Stantec has completed their work and has submitted a final
report, which identifies the necessary drainage mitigation for the Center Playfields (at a
lower cost than anticipated by Tutela). These recommendations are the basis for a phased
budget request currently before the CPC for FY 2011. Phase 1 is estimated at $875,173;
the estimated cost for the three-phase project is $2,056,503.
Storm Water Mitigation at the Old Reservoir and Marrett Road
At Town Meeting in 2008, $55,000 was approved for: (1) reconstruction of the gate
control structure and(2)the dredging of the large existing retention basin at the Old
Reservoir. The reconstruction work, which is the first phase of this project, has been
completed. The second phase, the dredging work, was delayed and will be undertaken
with a$569,000 storm water mitigation project approved for FY 2010, The Town's
Engineering Division is negotiating with the Louis Berger Group (who did the initial
report) for bidding and construction administration. Once the Engineering Department
has a contract, they will proceed with both the detention basin dredging and the larger
stormwater mitigation project.
Pond Drainage Improvements to Pine Meadows Golf Course
At the Annual Town Meeting in 2009, voters appropriated $200,000 for the remediation
of drainage issues at the Pine Meadows Golf Course. As the first step in this project,the
Town's Engineering Division issued an RFP for qualified engineers to develop
engineering plans and specifications for the pond/drainage improvements. A contract was
awarded to Hoyle, Tanner and Associates, Inc. for this work, for $35,500. They will
begin their work this spring. Once they have developed the necessary drainage plans and
specifications, the construction aspect of the job will go out to bid, and a contract will be
awarded.
29
Archives and Records Management/Records Conservation
This project is in its second year of an anticipated 5-year process. Document digitization
continues for year 1 projects, with year 2 project treatments underway. Initial estimates
received for the first phase of year 2 items have provided a solid basis for identifying the
number of Assessor's volumes that can be scheduled within year 2. Conservation and
preservation needs for the Assessor's volumes are anticipated to exceed the $150,000
appropriation. The project will be limited to available funding, with the remaining
Assessor's volumes brought forward for year 3 projects if funding is authorized.
Town Office Building Renovation
The 2009 Annual Town Meeting appropriated$30,000 to supplement the $80,000
approved at 2008 Annual Town Meeting for the design phase of the Town Office
Building Project. Under the initial appropriation in 2008,the architectural firm of
Bargmann, Hendrie and Archetype (BH+A)was hired to prepare the study and design
construction drawings for the Town Office Building renovation. After the programming
of space needs and the building evaluation had been completed, it became apparent that a
supplement would be needed to properly design the recommended scope. This project
now continues under the 2009 appropriation.
The Town Manager's Office hasinet with staff to receive recommendations of preferred
design concepts for consideration. The project includes accessibility improvements at all
entrances, accessibility improvements at restrooms and transaction counters, extension of
the fire suppression system into the 1971 portion of the building, and realignment of
departments to increase efficiency. BH+A has prepared 75% construction cost estimates
for the work, currently projected at $1,823,881. The CPC voted on March 22"d, 2010 to
fund $1,500,000 of this work.
Police Station Space Needs Study
A space needs study of the Police Station was authorized by Annual Town Meeting in
2009 for$45,000. The study will include: (1) a program of space needs, (2)building and
site conditions assessment and systems evaluations, (3)historical evaluations and criteria,
(4) a report on the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
opportunities with selected building design, (5) schematic design options, (6) design
review, (7)recommended schematic design, (8)projected construction costs and project
budget, and (9) a projected project schedule.
A contract for professional architectural services to complete the scope of work outlined
above was awarded to the architectural firm of Donham& Sweeney Architects on
February 19, 2010. A completed study and recommendations for the building and project
are expected by the end of the summer of 2010.
30
Stone Building Renovation
At the 2009 Annual Town Meeting, voters appropriated$180,000 for the preparation of a
Historic Structure Report (HSR) and completion of exterior stabilization work for the
Stone Building. The HSR was completed by Menders, Torrey and Spencer during the
summer of 2009 at a cost of$40,000. The HSR recommended immediate limited exterior
stabilization work,which was completed in the fall of 2009 for the cost of$12,000. The
HSR also detailed additional exterior stabilization work that should be completed during
the summer of 2010. This work includes a new roof and gutters, the removal of
aluminum siding, the repair and painting of wood siding, and re-glazing of windows. If
completed in 2010, this work would not be duplicative of any future restoration
work.
While the exact use of the building has not yet been determined, it has been decided that
the Stone Building will be utilized as a"Heritage Collaborative". Preliminary thoughts
from the committee formed to explore possible uses of the Heritage Collaborative include
limited library use, meeting space, lecture hall, exhibit space, wireless research and
historic resources.
With future interior use of the Stone Building in the preliminary stages, it is
recommended that only exterior stabilization work take place. It is proposed that the
remaining un-committed funds, approximately$128,000, be returned to the CFA fund, in
anticipation of seeking a FY 2011 appropriation for $202,933 for exterior stabilization.
Should Town Meeting approve the FY 2011 request, this FY 2010 project would be
considered complete.
Fire Headquarters Renovation and Redesign
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting authorized$40,000 to perform a study on the needs of
the Fire Headquarters. This study has resulted in three options: (1) selective renovations
costing $3.3M, (2) the construction of an addition plus renovations costing $8.1M, and
(3) the construction of a new fire station costing$10.2M. During public review of the
options, it was determined that additional details were needed in order to make an
informed decision. The 2009 Annual Town Meeting funded additional work in the
schematic phase to conduct a more detailed evaluation of the three options and to allow
for more public discussion and input on the various attributes of the plans. This 2009
appropriation totaled$100,000, with$70,300 funded from the General Fund and$29,700
from CPA funds (for the historic portion of the project).
A contract for professional architectural services was awarded on February 19, 2009 to
the architectural firm of Denham & Sweeney Architects. The design recommendations
for the building arc expected by the end of the summer of 2010.
31
Greeley Village Roof Replacement
At Annual Town Meeting in 2009, the Town approved$320,828 for the replacement of
40-year old roofs on all 100 units of affordable housing at Greeley Village Apartments.
The roofs will be replaced with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
shingles in order to conserve energy costs and stop water leakage. An architect has been
hired for this project, and bidding documents are 95% complete. The job went out to bid
in February 2010 and was awarded to Corolla Construction for the full $320,828.
Munroe Tavern Historic Structure Report
In 2009, Annual Town Meeting voted to approve $50,000 for a Historic Structure Report
for the Munroe Tavern. This report has been finalized and the Lexington Historical
Society's study of the Munroe Tavern is nearly complete. The Society has submitted the
report to the CPC, and the Society's architect is finalizing construction plans and
specifications. Based upon the information idezatified in the Historic Structure Report, the
Society has applied for$400,000 in FY 2011 CPA funding to help defray the estimated
$820,054 total cost of renovating the Munroe Tavern.
Purchase of Three Properties by LexHAB
At Town Meeting in 2009, voters approved $845,000 to support LexHAB with its
acquisition of four affordable housing units (three properties) for which the Town
received affordable housing deed restrictions. The affordable housing restrictions are real
property interests which the Town acquired in consideration for its appropriation of the
CPA funds, and as an express requirement of section 12(a) of the CPA statute. The units
were:
- 300 Woburn Street, where an existing building was removed and a new
three-bedroom dwelling constructed by the partnership between LexHAB, the
Lexington Rotary Club and Minuteman Regional Vocational School. This
home is nearly complete.
- 104 Emerson Gardens, a one-bedroom unit, and
- 1001-1003 Massachusetts Avenue, an existing duplex. The house has two 2-
bedroom units, and has had the heating system and electric service upgraded.
The windows in the duplex have also been replaced with approval of the
Historic District Commission.
Selection of tenants for these units will be on a lottery basis to ensure their qualifications
for and addition to the Town's Subsidized Housing List (the so-called 40B list). The
selection plan has been approved by the Department of Housing and Community
Development (DHCD) and marketing of the units commenced on February 15t, 2010.
32
Purchase of the Leary Parcel off Vine Street
The 2009 Annual Town Meeting voted$2,763,100 in CPA funding for the purchase of a
14.2-acre parcel off Vine Street and its associated appraisal, surveying, site assessment,
legal, land management, and historic structure evaluation costs. Per the authorization to
purchase,the 14.2-acre lot was divided through the Approval Not Required process into
two lots, a 13.49 acre lot for conservation purposes and a 30,022 square foot lot for
affordable housing purposes. After completion of the survey,the site assessment and the
Approval Not Required process, the Town closed on the two parcels on August 11, 2009,
completing the purchase of the Leary parcel. In preparation for the next steps in the
planning and design process for the affordable housing lot, a historic structure evaluation
of the existing farm house has been completed, and the Conservation Commission is
exploring installation of signage and the preparation of a land management plan.
Purchase of Land off Lowell Street(the Busa property)
In 2009, Special Town Meeting approved the $4,197,000 purchase of the 7.93 acre Busa
Farm property on Lowell Street and associated costs related to a master plan, site survey,
legal work, and site assessment. The Town closed on the Busa property on December 2,
2009 and now officially owns the land. Prior to the closing,minor contamination was
identified on the site and the owner completed all remediation as required by DEP
regulations. This remediation effort was also monitored by a Licensed Site Professional
retained by the Town. During the 2010 growing season, the land will continue to be
farmed by Dennis Busa, under a lease agreement with the Town. The Board of Selectmen
is planning to convene a committee to identify options for the future use of this land.
33
Status Report on FY 2009 CPA Projects
Survey and Define Affordable Housing Study-LexHAB and Lexington Housing
Partnership
Annual Town Meeting in 2008 voted $25,000 in CPA funds to survey homebuyer
assistance projects in other Massachusetts communities and to develop a Statement of
Objectives and Summary of Program Attributes that would work in Lexington. A
consultant, Karen Sunnarborg, was hired and has completed and distributed a
comprehensive report entitled"Affordable Homebuyer Assistance Programs--Survey of
Other Massachusetts Municipal Programs". (A copy of this comprehensive report is
available at www.lexin2tonhousin2partnership.org.) The Lexington Housing
Partnership, LexF AB and their consultant, Karen Sunnarborg,have held a series of
meetings and forums to discuss the concept of the Program and to obtain input. Feedback
from local leaders on the Statement of Objectives was obtained in December, 2008, and
at a subsequent meeting to discuss the potential homeownership initiative in May, 2009.
A proposed program design and executive summary has been prepared and specific roles
for LexHAB have been discussed. Once the final program details are defined,there will
be meetings with the Board of Selectmen and the community, including Town
committees. At these meetings, there will an opportunity for discussion and final input
into the program design. Funding committed to the project is sufficient to complete the
planned study work.
Belfry Hill Tree Restoration Project
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting voted $9,850 in CPA funds to hire a certified arborist and
tree service to remove the infestation of Norway maples located on the north and
northwest side of Belfry Hill and replace them with more widely spaced native trees,
shrubs and erosion-resistant plants. Matthew R. Foti Landscape &Tree Service, Inc.
(Foti) was hired to perform the Norway maple removal and native restoration planting at
Belfry Hill. The Norway maples were removed in the fall of 2008 (at a cost of$4,720),
opening up the view between the Belfry Tower; the Town Green and the Buckman
Tavern.
In the spring of 2009, Foti restored Belfry Hill with shade trees (white,red, chestnut and
scarlet oaks, sugar maple, grey birch, and basswood), understory trees (common
sassafras, Rosebay rhododendron,pagoda dogwood and witchhazel) and shrubs
(Staghorn sumac and Coast leucothoe) at a cost of$3,300 for a total of$8,020 spent on
the project to date. In the summer of 2009, the Tree Committee conducted four work
days, removing unwanted Norway maple saplings and latent invasive plants from the site.
The remaining funds of$1,830 will be used to purchase and plant restoration seed mixes,
groundeovers and related materials in the spring of 2010. These materials will be
installed by the Tree Committee and volunteers to forestall reestablishment of the
removed invasive species.
34
Reconstruction of the Gatehouse/Pond Dredging at the Old Reservoir
At the 2008 Town Meeting, $55,000 was approved for reconstruction of the gate control
structure and dredging of the existing retention basin. The reconstruction work has been
completed,but the dredging work was delayed and will be undertaken with a storm water
mitigation project, which was approved for FY 2010 ($569,000). With regard to the
reconstruction of the gatehouse, a contract was awarded in early spring to the Cal
Corporation of Natick for rebuilding the gate structure at the Old Reservoir. The contract
award was for $17,900 with a$5,000 contingency. The Town supplied the materials at an
estimated cost of$5,000. Cali Corporation completed the reconstruction of the gate
control structure in the fall of 2009.
With respect to the mitigation work, the Town's Engineering Division is negotiating with
the Louis Berger Group (who did the initial report) for bidding and construction
administration. Once the.Engineering Department has a contract, they will proceed with
the proposed mitigation work in conjunction with the FY 2010 project.
Of the $55,000 appropriated for the FY 2009 project, any unspent funds will be closed
back to the Community Preservation Fund. This FY 2009 project is now considered
complete.
Window Replacement at Vynebrooke Village
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting voted $158,686 in CPA funds to install new windows at
Vynebrooke Village to conserve energy costs and preserve the 48 affordable housing
units at the complex. It is estimated that there will be a 10-30% energy savings by
replacing the old aluminum and wood windows. The installation of the windows is now
98% complete. The only work necessary to complete the job is to caulk the windows
from the outside,which will be done in warm weather in the spring of 2010.
Municipal Archive Records Management and Conservation
Annual Town Meeting voted $150,000 in 2008 to fund this project,which is the second
year of a five-year undertaking to conserve valuable Town records. Records conservation
and microfilming of items identified in year 1 of the multi-year project has been
substantially completed. There is a small balance reserved for digitization costs upon
finalization and to address year 2 program needs as a supplement to FY 2010 funding.
Purchase of Three Condominium Units at Parker Manor
At its Annual Town Meeting in 2008, voters approved $652,800 in CPA funding to
support LexHAB with its acquisition of three affordable housing units for which the
Town received affordable housing deed restrictions. The affordable housing restrictions
are real property interests which the Town acquired in consideration for its appropriation
of the CPA funds, and as an express requirement of section 12(a) of the CPA statute. The
units, managed and owned by LexHAB, have since been rented and occupied by families
meeting LexHAB's affordability requirements. This project is now considered complete.
35
r
Building Upgrades to the Old Harrington School
In.2008, Annual Town Meeting appropriated$330,000 in CPA funds to accommodate
improvements to the Old Harrington School building to make the building functional for
its intended use as a year-round office building. The firm of Garcia, Galuska&DeSousa
Engineers was hired to design air-conditioning and electrical upgrades along with other
minor improvements to the building. The air-conditioning work was completed in the late
spring and early summer of 2009. The building improvements are largely finished with
only minor details needed to complete the project. Full close-out is anticipated in early
spring of 2010.
Town Office Complex Building Envelope
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting appropriated $95,000 in CPA funds for the Town Office
Complex Building Envelope to preserve the building systems and ensure that the
buildings remain fully functional for their intended use. During the summer of 2009,
extraordinary repairs were made to copper gutters, down spouts, and ornate conductor
heads, and new storm windows were installed on the Cary Memorial Building. This
project is now considered complete..
East Lexington Fire Station - Storm Window and Central Air Conditioning
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting appropriated$47,500 in CPA funds to provide for the
installation of new storm windows and a new central air-conditioning system at the East
Lexington Fire Station to preserve the building systems and ensure that the building
remains fully functional for its intended use. This project was completed during the
summer of 2009.
ADA Accessible Bathrooms and Appropriate Signage at the Town Office Building
Tn 2008, Annual Town Meeting approved $70,000 in CPA Funds for these improvements
at the Town Office Building. An employee signage team worked with a design
consultant,Pat Fisher, to develop a flexible signage system for the Town Office Building
that meets ADA/AAB Accessibility Standards. The news signs for Town Hall were
installed in April 2009, and include directory signs,wayfaring signs (in stairways and
hallways) and room signs. The signs have been well received and removable ,strips on the
signs make them adaptable for changing needs. This portion of the project is complete.
The installation of the ADA bathrooms (approximately$49,000) is on hold pending a
vote of Town Meeting on an application before the CPC for$1,823,881 in funding for
renovations to the Town Office Building. This ADA bathroom project is proposed to be
completed within the scope of the work outlined in the Town Office Building renovation
project, with funds from FY 2009.
36
Town Office Building Use Study and Renovation Design
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting approved $80,000 in CPA funds for the implementation
of space programming and design of renovations to the Town Office Building. These
fiends were appropriated in anticipation of the relocation of the Department of Public
Works staff and to ensure that the building remains fully functional for its intended use.
The architectural firm of Bargmann,Hendrie and Archetype (BH+A)was engaged to
conduct the architectural and engineering portion of this work. To date the programming
of space needs and building use evaluation work has been completed in addition to the
development of a preferred design concept.
These funds were supplemented by a 2009 ATM appropriation for an additional $30,000.
This project is ongoing, and in early March of 2010, a $1,823,881 request for CPA funds
was submitted to the CPC for renovations to the Town Office Building.
Replacement of the Munroe School Fire Prevention System
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting appropriated $579,550 for the replacement of the fire
suppression and fire alarm systems at the Munroe School (Munroe Center for the Arts).
RDK Engineers completed the design of the new systems and the Town has awarded a
contract to implement the design. Construction of the fire alarm system and the fire
suppression system has been completed, with a total expenditure of$345,325. The
remaining funds, $234,225 will be closed back to the Community Preservation Fund.
Harrington School Playground
The 2008 Special Town Meeting voted an additional $35,135 for supplemental funding
for the creation of a new handicapped accessible playground at Lexington Children's
Place, a public preschool program housed at the Harrington School. Spring 2008 Town
Meeting had authorized $75,000 of CPA funds to purchase and install new playground
equipment to create this new handicapped accessible playground but the funds were
insufficient to complete the project. The playground was completed in June, 2009, and
children frons. LCP and from the community have been utilizing it with great success and
enjoyment.
Purchase of the Goodwin Parcels by the Town
The 2008 Special Town Meeting voted $186,100 in CPA funding for the purchase of two
parcels of land, a 12.1 acre parcel off Hartwell Avenue and a 9.4 acre parcel off Cedar
Street, and their associated appraisal, surveying, and legal costs. On March 19, 2009, the
Town closed on the two parcels and the purchase is now complete. The two parcels are
now under the care, custody, and management of the Conservation Commission.
Previously Completed Projects:
1. Hancock-Clark House Restoration. $600,000.
37
Status Report on FY 2008 CPA Projects
Center Playfield Drainage Engineering Study
In 2007, Annual Town Meeting voted $40,000 in CPA funds to hire an engineering firm
to assess the condition of the Center Playfields between Worthen Road and Park Drive
and to make drainage improvement recommendations. Tutela Engineering provided a
report to the Town on January 24, 2009. Their contract was for $36,000, with a
contingency of$4,000, and it is expected that the full $40,000 will be expended for this
study. After reviewing the report and hearing a presentation by Tutela Engineering at the
February 11'h, 2009 Recreation Committee meeting, the Committee decided to modify its
plans for making drainage improvements due to the high projected cost of$3,625,000
and the complexity of the Vine Brook culvert. Therefore, additional analysis and a
request for $70,000 in CPA funds at the 2009 Annual Town Meeting was made in order
to determine the necessary drainage improvements at the Center Playfields. The
Recreation Committee is awaiting a final submittal from Tutela Engineering to close this
project.
Historic Preservation at Ye OId Burial Ground and Munroe Cemetery
In 2007, Annual Town Meeting voted$367,000 in CPA funds to hire a qualified stone
conservator and a qualified stone preservation contractor to preserve and repair the grave
markers at Ye Old Burial Ground and Munroe Cemeteries. Ivan Myjer, of Building
Monument Conservation, was hired as the stone conservator and project overseer for this
project. He also performed repairs to the tabletop markers at Ye Old Burial Ground.
ConservArt LLC was hired to perform preservation and restoration work at Ye Old
Burial Ground, Munroe Cemetery and Robbins Cemetery. A total of$127,643 has been
spent to date.
Based upon reports from Ivan Myjer, a majority of markers and stones at Ye Old Burial
Ground, Munroe Cemetery and Robbins Cemetery have been repaired and restored.
Attention will now turn to the final phase of the project. This will include any final
restoration work at these cemeteries, and the development of a map of each cemetery.
This final phase of work will be put out to bid in the spring of 2010.
Comprehensive Cultural Resources Survey
The 2007 Annual Town Meeting approved a grant of$90,000 to revise and supplement
the nine-volume Comprehensive Cultural Resources Survey(the "Inventory"); as stated
in the CPC report to Town Meeting, the project was intended to identify and prioritize
incomplete or undocumented buildings; establish a uniform and comprehensive record of
these properties; and consolidate the survey information into a single volume that would
be easily available to Lexington residents as an important reference source. Town
Meeting further requested that all materials be placed on-line for ease of access.
38
The bulk of this project is now complete. Lisa Mausolf, a preservation consultant hired
by the Lexington Historical Commission(LHC), has scanned and corrected each of the
forms from the nine-volume Inventory, and has supplemented this information with
neighborhood descriptions, a brief history of the Town of Lexington, historical maps and
a bibliography of Lexington resources. All these materials have recently been
downloaded to the Town's website.
During the course of the project, the Massachusetts Historical Commission(MHC)
encouraged the LHC to conduct further research and document the Mid-Century Modern
movement of architecture in Lexington. One neighborhood, and a limited number of
individual homes, would be documented,with the possibility of later supplementation
with other Modernist neighborhoods and homes. In all cases, neighborhoods and
individual houses would only be included in this survey with the consent of the
homeowners. To complete this phase of the project, the LHC is seeping a grant from the
MHC for$15,000, to be matched with the remaining funds from the 2007 CPA grant
($4,875) and additional.funds from a pending supplemental grant from the FY 2011 CPA
grant round ($5,300).
Tourism Signs
At the 2007 Annual Town Meeting, $18,360 was voted for directional and storytelling
signage in Lexington. The directional signage from local highways to the Town's historic
sites has been created and all but two of the signs are now hanging. It is hoped that these
two signs will be installed in the near future. The funding for this portion of the project
has been fully expended.
One remaining sign is still in progress, the storytelling sign about April 19"', 1775,which
will be installed on the Battle Green. A Lexington artist is donating his time to produce
drawings for the sign, and upon completion, the remaining $6,500 in CPA funds will be
used for final fabrication and installation.
West Lexington Greenway Corridor
The 2007 Annual Town Meeting voted $125,000 in CPA funds to hire an engineering
firm to create a Master Plan for the entire West Lexington Greenway Corridor with a
focuson creating a new pedestrian and bicycle trail through conservation land by
connecting the Minuteman Bikeway with the Battle Road Trail. The planning and
engineering firm Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB) was hired and, to date, VHB has
completed a Draft Master Plan and Draft Preliminary 25%Design Drawings for the
proposed Minuteman Bikeway and Battle Road connector trail. The Final Master Plan
and 25% Design Plans are pending incorporation of the final comments from the West
Lexington Greenway Task Force by VHB.
39
Muzzey High Condominium Building Study
In 2007, Annual Town Meeting voted $53,500 in CPA funds to perform a structural
evaluation of the Muzzey High Condominiums at 1475 Massachusetts Avenue. The
purpose of this evaluation was to provide a detailed report of the existing condition of the
historic building and scope of construction aimed at restoring and stabilizing the
building's structure and envelope. TBA Architects of Waltham was hired to do this work
and completed their evaluation in the spring of 2008. They made numerous
recommendations to the Muzzey High Condominium owners to manage the myriad
problems identified during their six month evaluation. This project is now complete, and
the Condominium Association is turning its attention to developing a plan to finance the
recommended repairs.
East Lexington Branch Library (Stone Building) -Historic Building Evaluation
Report
Following a designer selection process in the fall of 2007, the Town hired HKT
Architects to prepare a feasibility study for the Stone Building using $43,000 of CPA
funds. The firm presented their initial building feasibility findings to the library's Board
of Trustees on May 20, 2008, and their final report was issued in August, 2008 (a copy is
available on the library's website, http://www.carylibrary.org/castbraneb/future.html).
The study described the building's existing conditions and identified two alternatives for
making the building ADA/AAB compliant,with the reconstruction of a building ell as the
preferred alternative. The Cary Library Trustees subsequently solicited Letters of Intent
from the community to determine possible uses for the building, and in February, 2009,
announced their decision to use the building as a Lexington Heritage Collaborative. The
Town applied for and received$180,000 in additional CPA funding in FY 2010 to
continue with the next phase of the process. It is anticipated that approximately$128,000
of this appropriation will be returned to the CPA fund in anticipation of seeking more
comprehensive funding in FY 2011 for exterior stabilization work. If the request for.
FY 2011 funding is approved by Annual Town Meeting in 2010, this FY 2008 project
would be considered complete.
Previously Completed Proiects:
1. Improved Fire Monitoring/Historic Houses. $18,120.
2. Boiler and Oil Tank for Buckman Tavern. $10,685.
3. Greeley Village Window Replacement. $228,404.
4. Cary Hall Restoration and Rehabilitation. (Assessment of Cary Hall as a
performance center) $147,130 ($78,873 not expended).
5. Douglas House - Rehabilitation of 7 Oakland St. (Rehabilitation of the former
Minuteman Press Building for affordable housing for brain-injured adults)
$300,000.
40
Status Report on FY 2007 CPA Projects
Open Space and Recreational Plan
The 2006 Annual Town Meeting voted $20,000 from the CPA administrative fund to
update the 1997 Open Space and Recreation Plan(OSRP). The Town hired the planning
and engineering firm of Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB), to prepare the OSRP
Update. Three Public Meetings were held in 2008 and a preliminary draft OSRP Update
was provided to the Town. Conservation, Recreation, and Planning Department staff, as
well as several board/committee members,reviewed the draft and provided comments
and revisions. On October 16, 2009, the final draft was conditionally approved through
October, 2014 by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, Division of
Conservation Services. In response to the conditional approval, final edits were
completed and forwarded to the Division of Conservation Services (DCS)to address their
comments. Once DCS grants final approval, copies of the approved OSRP will be
produced and made available to the public at the Town Office Building, Cary Memorial
Library, and on the Town website.
Cary Memorial Building Vault Climate Control
The 2006 Annual Town Meeting voted$60,000 for the rehabilitation and restoration of
the records vault in Cary Memorial Hall. Full installation of a climate control system and
fire protection system within the Cary Hall vault was completed in the summer of 2009.
Completion of this project was within the available funding from the original
authorizations at 2006 and 2007 Town Meetings .
Previously Completed Projects:
1. Main Fire Station/Bedford Street -Renovations. $100,000.
2. Police Station- Interior Renovations. $100,000.
3. Hancock-Clarke House- Pre-Restoration Project(Historic Structure Report,
Building Usage Study, Accessibility Evaluation and Construction Specifications).
$25,000.
4. Lexington Depot - Elevator Project. $44,000.
5. Cary Vault Shelving. $60,000.
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CPC Account Balance and Recommendation
2010 Annual Town Meeting
APPROVED TO DATE
(by category as of 7101/09)
Community Housing $2,557,468
Historic Resources $3,556,645
Open Space $7,302,117
Recreational Uses $1,106,635
TOTAL $14,522,865
Administrative Expenses $275,000
TOTAL $1.4,797,865
AVAILABLE FOR APPROPRIATION
At 2010 Spring Town Meeting
UNAPPROPRIATED BALANCES
Community Housing Reserve $7,289
Historic Resources Reserve $141,195
Open Space Reserve $397,207
Unbudgeted Reserve $935,336
Undesignated Fund Balance $5,163,878
Total Unappropriated Balances $6,644,905
ESTIMATED REVENUES, FY 2011
Property Surcharge $3,153,000
State Match(31%per DOR est.) $941,700
Investment Income (estimated) $50,000
Total FY201 1.Estimated Revenue $4,144,700
TOTAL AVAILABLE $1.0,789,605
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CPC RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR FY 2011 PROJECTS AND EXPENSES
Requested Recommended
COMMUNITY HOUSING
Greeley Village Siding Replacement 386,129 386,129
Vynebrooke Village Drainage Study 10,000 10,000
LexHAB Purchase of Two Properties 695,000 695,000
HISTORIC RESOURCES
Archives and Records Management 150,000 150,000
Cary Library Preservation Project 100,000 100,000
Cary Mem. Bldng. - Improvements Study 60,000 60,000
Cary Memorial Building Signage 25,000 25,000
Building Envelope 73,000 73,000
Town Office Building Renovation 1,823,881 1,500,000
Cary Memorial Bldng./TOB HVAC Upgrades 35,000 35,000
Police Station Ventilation System 31,700 31,700
Muzzey Senior Center Improvements Study 45,100 45,100
White House Historic Structure Report 18,000 18,000
Stone Building Exterior Stabilization 202,933 202,933
Munroe Tavern Capital Improvements 400,000 400,000
Comp. Cultural Res. Study-Suppl.Apprtn. 5,300 5,300
Battle Green Master Plan 25,000 25,000
OPEN SPACE
Minuteman Bikeway Preservation (112 rec) 160,000 160,000
Cotton Farm Land Acquisition 3,857,000 tbd
RECREATIONAL USE
Minuteman Bikeway Preservation (112 osp) 160,000 160,000
Stormwater Mitigation Old Res.IMarrett Rd. 190,047 190,047
Center Playfields Drainage- Implementation 875,173 875,173
ADMINISTRATIVE
Administrative Expenses (including $50,000 150,000 150,000
for land planning expenes)
TOTAL (Projects and Admin.) 9,478,263 5,297,382
Busa Debt Service 2,562,100 2,562,100
TOTAL 12,040,363 7,859,482
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