BURLINGTON TOWN SELECTMAN UNVEIL LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT AND PRESERVATION PROJECT

Preservation of Grandview Farm and Development of Senior Affordable Housing Represent Centerpiece of Vibrant Project

Burlington, Massachusetts (February 26, 2001) – Much-needed affordable housing for the town’s senior population and their families and the preservation of the historic Grandview Farm are two pieces of a development/preservation project unveiled by the Town of Burlington’s Board of Selectman.

At this week’s Board of Selectman’s meeting, Town Administrator Bob Mercier revealed plans for a Planned Development District (PDD) that involves a four parcel land exchange between the Town of Burlington and two local developers, the Gutierrez Company and Ruping Builders. The proposal is expected to be voted on at a Special Town Meeting slated for late April.

“We have a unique opportunity as a result of the land exchange to define the future of Burlington, while preserving its storied past. Within this project lies a tremendous opportunity to reap unprecedented benefits for the residents of Burlington that will positively affect the Town for generations to come,” said Mr. Mercier. “When this project becomes a reality, we can expect additional open, green and recreational space, a renovated Grandview Farm which preserves Burlington’s past, substantial revenue that will improve the Town’s infrastructure, and much needed affordable senior housing for the same people who worked so hard to make Burlington a great place to live.”

According to Mr. Mercier, two components of the project, a 170,000 square foot office building slated for the Wall Street and Mountain Road parcel, and a 159,000 square foot office building planned for the Wheeler Road site, will provide unprecedented job opportunities for area residents, assuring that a strong local economy is maintained.

Preliminary plans call for the town to receive the Grandview Farm site on Center Street from Ruping Builders principal Gary Ruping.  Plans by the Town at the Grandview Farm site, calls for renovating and rehabilitating the farm house while adding some 50 affordable senior housing units adjacent to the farm.

“This gives us a unique opportunity to accomplish several desirable goals: preserving a historical landmark; creating open space in the center of town; and providing seniors with adequate affordable housing,” said Mr. Mercier.

Additionally, local developer, The Gutierrez Company, will turn over approximately 1.08 acres on South Bedford Street to the Town for future use.  According to Mr. Mercier, while the Town has no plans presently to develop the land, the benefits of the conveyance will be felt immediately.  “Ultimately the residents of this Town will control the use and or development of this land and they will decide how it will be used.  In its present state, it provides a nice buffer for Bedford Street residents from Mall Road traffic,” said Mr. Mercier.

The Gutierrez Company will also give the Town approximately 6.4 acres near Wall Street and Mountain Road to preserve wetlands and a wildlife habitat.  No development will occur on that part of the site.  Approximately 13 acres of the Wall Street and Mountain Road land will be retained by Gutierrez for the development of a 170,000 square foot office building and parking structure.  Another 11 acres of this site will be conveyed to Ruping Builders for the construction of 36 units of affordable senior housing and 144 market-rate housing units.

According to Mr. Mercier, as a result of this transaction, the present non-conforming Igo Trucking facility will be cleaned-up and relocated to the opposite side of Donahue’s Furniture and all future development of the site will be under the Town’s control.  Mr. Mercier said the Town will also gain additional tax revenue and open space near the Mountain Road and Wall Street area.

The final parcel, approximately 14.6 acres on Wheeler Road, will be conveyed from the Town of Burlington to The Gutierrez Company.  Preliminary plans call for construction of a 159,000 square foot office building.

“This project works for one reason – because cooperation by all parties ensures the town is provided with the best and highest use of its precious land,” said Selectman Al Fay.  If we don’t approve this PDD, then we will be looking at a more invasive residential development that will overburden our school system and create a horrendous traffic situation. This plan avoids this scenario.”

In the coming weeks, according to Mr. Mercier, the Town will be scheduling informational meetings to gain input and further direction from residents.

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