Controversial Housing Development Sparks Debate in North Plymouth
Residents Voice Concerns Over Traffic, Environmental Impact of Proposed 150-Unit Project
PLYMOUTH, MA - November 12 - A proposed 150-unit housing development in North Plymouth has ignited debate among residents and town officials, with concerns ranging from traffic congestion to environmental impact. Pulte Homes presented plans for the project, dubbed Ocean View North, at a recent Plymouth Select Board meeting.
The development, proposed as a "friendly 40B" project, would be spread across three sites in North Plymouth, near Court Street, Hedge Road, Prince Street, and Sandri Drive. Essek Petrie, representing Pulte Homes, outlined plans for three four-story, 50-unit garden-style buildings, totaling 150 units.
"25% or 38 of the units will be made affordable through EOHLC," Petrie said, referring to the state's affordable housing office.
The project's location and scale have raised concerns among local residents and officials. Select Board Chairman Richard Quintal expressed skepticism about the traffic impact assessment presented by the developer.
"I don't believe it to be true, and that's just the way I'm going to support the project that way, unless you can really show me," Quintal said, challenging the developer's claim that the project would only generate about 60 vehicle trips during peak hours.
Robert Michaud, a traffic consultant for the project, defended the analysis, stating, "We've taken those into account, and I will mention that there's an independent study that's being done by GPI working in collaboration with the town, the North Plymouth Circulation Study, which also documented these same conditions."
Environmental concerns were also raised, particularly regarding the project's proximity to wetlands. Select Board member Kevin Canty questioned the sustainability of building near these sensitive areas.
"Wouldn't it be more sustainable to not build on or adjacent to a wetland?" Canty asked.
Petrie responded by emphasizing the project's stormwater management plans and the balance between housing needs and environmental considerations.
Everett Malagutti, Vice Chair of the North Plymouth Steering Committee, highlighted the need for more community outreach. "I do think there needs to be more collaboration not just with the developer and the town but also within the boards and the North Plymouth Steering Committee to get an outcome that's going to be beneficial for everyone on this," Malagutti said.
Lee Hartman, Director of Planning and Development for Plymouth, provided context on the 40B process, noting that the town has limited control over such projects. "We have very little control over these types of projects when it comes through the Zoning Board of Appeals," Hartman explained.
The project is still in its early stages, with Pulte Homes seeking to enter into an agreement with the town for a "friendly 40B" process. Further reviews and public hearings are expected as the proposal moves forward.
In other town news, officials reported growing concerns over wildfire risks in Plymouth due to dry conditions. Town Manager Derek Brindisi addressed the issue, stating, "There's been over 1,000 wildfires in Massachusetts alone this year, which is very rare compared to the western part of this country."
Brindisi emphasized the need for public education on fire prevention, especially given the current dry conditions. "We're going to try to push as much public messaging as possible," he said.
The Select Board also approved a donation for improvements to Cedarville Cemetery, including a new stone wall and stairway, offered by Matthew Glenn in memory of his son.
