Toll Brothers developers came before the Planning Board seeking to release bond money for the developers to finish some infrastructure issues that have arisen at their ongoing housing development on Route 6.
Toll Brothers representatives said the water line needs for Marion Pointe, 78 Wareham Road, have changed since construction began, and proceeding with the project will require another 1,500 feet of water line infrastructure.
Board representatives compromised, agreeing to release funds for work that has been completed, which adds up to $745,300.
Planning Board Chairman Sean Sweeney equated the release of any additional funds to paying a home builder the entire price when the house is only halfway complete. Sweeney indicated that if the project failed to reach completion, the town would be financially liable.
“To be fair to the town, we need, at a minimum, systems that have been fully installed, tested and approved to release money,” Sweeney said.
“We are under no obligation to grant it,” Sweeney also said.
The board agreed to release funds in line with the work that has been completed, including site preparation and demolition, clearing of land and granite curb work.
The board also deliberated on another Toll Brothers project that would be adjacent to Marion Pointe: a 55-unit townhouse development dubbed Heron Cove Estates.
Last month, Toll Brothers appeared before the board for a preliminary hearing and both developers and board members noted that this project could be expedited because it mirrors Marion Pointe. Developers can design it with the previous project’s recommendations and modifications.
The October 19 meeting featured the more formal site plan review hearing.
At the September meeting, Toll Brothers representative Jeff Heidelberg said road lengths will be the same and its connection to Marion Pointe reflects the fire and safety access concerns from the Marion Pointe project.
“We brought in elements consistent with the town’s desires and MassDOT’s [Department of Transportation] approval for the previous project,” project engineer Phil Cordeiro said.
At the October 19 meeting, Planning Board members had concerns about the parking, with only 11 visitor spots for the entire development.
Heidelberg said the driveways are large and the additional parking is within the town’s zoning requirements.
Some residents nearby complained about construction traffic, as well as safety, claiming that additional traffic from these two housing projects would put a strain on Route 6.
Board and project representatives said Route 6 is considered a state route and only the state DOT could install a traffic light or other traffic mitigation measures.
The board directed Toll Brothers to have the town’s engineer review plans and return to the board for the next phase.
The board will meet again on November 2.
Marion Planning Board
By Jeffrey D. Wagner