HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-01-15-GCC-min.docx
Greenways Corridor Committee Meeting Minutes January 15, 2026
Present in person: Keith Ohmart (chair), Alex Dohan, Peggy Enders, David Frohman, Bob Hausslein, Bobak Moshiri,
Stephen Perkins, Mike Tabaczynski (nonvoting), Millie Webster (nonvoting)
Present virtually: Eileen Entin, Susan Kenyon (nonvoting), Joe Pato (Select Board Liaison)
Votes: The December 11, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously.
Reports/Updates
Safe Routes to School Update: Bobak recounted the recent incident on Fiske School property where a child was
struck and seriously injured during drop-off. Key points discussed included: drop-off and pick-up behavior frequently
violates posted signage (“no parking” vs. “no stopping”); parents stopping briefly in prohibited areas creates significant
risk, especially given limited sight lines and large vehicles; similar unsafe behaviors occur townwide, particularly near
crosswalks and turnarounds.
Because GCC is well positioned as a pedestrian-oriented committee to comment on these issues, Bobak volunteered to
draft a memo/letter expressing GCC’s concerns regarding pedestrian–vehicle interactions (schools and townwide), for
circulation prior to the next meeting.
We also discussed the need to reassess existing and planned ACROSS routes with attention to school drop-
off/dismissal times and locations.
Transportation Safety Advisory Group Update: Peggy’s report included: Walnut Street traffic calming -speed
bumps requested by residents - fire department opposed -median installation planned; availability of MassDOT speed
feedback signs (“You’re driving too fast”); ongoing concerns regarding e-bikes and motorized devices; review of
crosswalk placement, including possible relocation where existing crossings are poorly sited.
Brochure Redesign Update. Keith reported that materials (photos, POIs, notes) have been sent to the designer, Jon
Sachs, who has resumed work following time away; a theme text box is planned for the photo page side of the
brochure:“Experience Lexington like it is 1776…by foot via ACROSS Lexington’s 50+ miles of interconnected
pathways.”; a candidate theme for a future (2027) brochure was also noted, focused on conservation lands.
Route Label Clarity (O vs. Q): Bobak had previously noted to Mike that Route letters O and Q could be confused -
of importance along Philip Road. After discussion of the pros and cons on changing the designation of Route Q to
another letter, the consensus was to leave it alone inasmuch as no one has complained so far.
Art / Publicity Opportunity: Peggy introduced an opportunity to publicize ACROSS Lexington through collaboration
with local artist Susi Remold who creates paintings celebrating organizations doing work that benefits the
community. Possibilities include the use of artwork in brochures, visitor center displays, or future projects. Inspired by
the conversation, there may be interest in pursuing something that ties together art and nature showcasing the
conservation trails and ACROSS Lexington. The consensus was to table the idea for now, but revisit after observing
how similar efforts are handled by related groups or in a future brochure cycle.
Annual Strategic Plan Review and Project Updates: Keith reviewed the annual strategic plan and current project
landscape. He and Mike had met with Karen Mullins the day before and she was in general agreement. She also said
there’s a good chance the new assistant will be announced in February.
The GCC Annual Strategic Plan Review, Revision of January 2026, is included as part of these Minutes. At the
meeting, Keith expanded on the items in 2. Complete Proposed New ACROSS Routes:
Near Term - 2025-2026
The Follen Road / Summit Road trail realignment, designated as Project X in the Review, will incorporate the Widnall
property recently donated to the Town as Conservation land. An easement is needed to cross the Sacred Heart Church
property between Follen Road and the Bridle Path. Sacred Heart has been approached and is in favor. Approval is
needed from the Boston Diocese. Charlie Wyman has taken the lead in coordinating this donation to the Town and the
planning for this trail connection.
The Route 22 / Arlington’s Great Meadows / Lower Vine Brook connector does not need Conservation Commission
approval, but Karen has confirmed that Town policy that notice be mailed to abutters, which document Keith and Mike
are drafting and Karen will coordinate the mailing. After which, the installation of a few posts plus the addition of
signs and stickers should be straightforward.
Mid-Term - 2026-2028
Route 8. The Concord Avenue East Loop parcel on the south side of Concord Avenue awaits boundary surveying,
which will likely lead to issues with abutters, therefore delays. That and the installation of a crosswalk are required to
complete this trail. The boundary surveying needs to be funded; hopefully the funds that Waterstone gave the town for
the aqueduct trail along Route 2 that was nixed by the MWRA can be diverted. Crosswalk construction priority and
funding will follow the boundary surveying. A flashing beacon at the crosswalk is an aspiration. Said crosswalk is
included in the current Bike/Ped Plan.
Route 4. $75K has been granted to Conservation by CPA for the planning and surveying of a connector between the
end of Rangeway Street and the Simonds Brook Conservation Area, avoiding the Drummer Boy property. The plan
will include a bridge over the stream. Yet to be determined is whether the building of the bridge will require a
contractor or can be done by volunteers.
The Community Center - Upper Vine Brook Connector was reviewed. Planning and Surveying funds have been
allocated by CPA to Conservation for this accessible trail which will connect with the accessible trail in Cotton
Farm. This project should be considered Mid-Term.
The Fairland Street - Lincoln Street Connector is expected to be open in 2027, therefore moving it to Mid-Term.
It appears to be essentially complete, built by the developer. Being on private land, an easement is needed for public
use which was confirmed during the meeting. Susan, who knows the developer, is monitoring its progress.
Unassigned - Long Range
A loop on the far end of Concord Avenue using existing trails and streets that would include Juniper Hill.
A public access trail between 475 Bedford Street (former Boston Sports Club) and the Simonds Brook trail system
under the power lines is being proposed by the developer for this property. Given the wet nature of the existing trail,
posting for seasonal use may be necessary.
Hartwell Avenue - no further updates.
Katahdin Woods - no further updates.
114 Wood Street - The developer is still completing its wetland delineation application with the Conservation
Department before further trail planning can take place.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 pm.
Next Meeting: February 12, 2026 in the Parker Room, Town Hall