Marion Open Space Acquisition Commission Chairman John Rockwell called a special public meeting for October 6 to discuss progress on the Point Road Bike Path.
In discussing progress with clearing along the designated area where the Point Road Bike Path will run alongside the road, MOSAC member Deb Ewing said, “It still looks like there’s a lot to do.”
MOSAC member Amanda Chace said many logs look “lovely and straight” and maybe someone in town would like to have them as lumber.
“Whatever they get for them will cover the cost of removal for us,” was Rockwell’s hope.
He stated the importance of finding out exactly where the property line is in the area of the path that butts up against Point Road and Joanna Drive properties.
In looking over a map, Rockwell focused on a turning point opposite the town bound. “(We) need something there. There have to be three bounds,” he said.
Chace agreed that “an objective marker” can help bridge the communication gap with landowners in the neighborhood.
Rockwell said he could send out a request to a surveying company as early as October 7. MOSAC doesn’t need a plan, he noted, just some cement bounds installed. Rockwell said the town bounds on site will make it easy for the installer and that the cement bounds cost approximately $400 each.
“We can whine about the price,” said Rockwell, noting that an advertised bid process is necessary and suggested sending one out to three to six prospective bidders. Chace suggested that the proximity of more-locally based job bidders should favor MOSAC.
Rockwell asked MOSAC member Deb Ewing for an update on the commission’s Council on Aging members. Ewing said one man who volunteered wants to keep doing what he has been doing, but that selection of any more help should be based on the new year just begun.
The forestry plan was discussed, and Rockwell said forester Thomas Farrell will be at the project site on October 29 to do his field work. “He’s going to give a public talk as part of the agreement,” said Rockwell.
As the project nears 75% completion, Rockwell said the next step is public feedback; 100% design, he said, still has to go through the town permitting process, and details need vetting. Rockwell said the project needs an easement between Brew Fish and Baldwin Brothers. “Progress is being made,” he said.
Rockwell said he has received a document from the Stewards of Open Space and that he would share the information in it with MOSAC members.
MOSAC adjourned without scheduling next month’s public meeting.
Marion Open Space Acquisition Commission
By Mick Colageo