The North and South Rivers Watershed Association (NSRWA) took a significant step toward establishing its new regional headquarters this week as the Conservation Commission cleared the way for a major riverfront infrastructure project. Representing the NSRWA, James Garfield of Morris Engineering presented plans for a 141-foot wooden pier and seasonal dock system at 160 Scusset Street, the former location of the "Have to Have It" property. Garfield detailed a design featuring 38 wooden pilings, an 8-by-8-foot mid-section to allow wheelchairs to pass one another, and a seasonal float designed to protect the riverbed.

This dock was designed to extend only as far as necessary to provide 30 inches of water beneath the float at all times, Garfield explained, adding that the seasonal components would be removed and stored outside of protected resource areas during the winter months. To ensure minimal impact on the tidal flats, Garfield noted that the pilings would be installed using the least invasive process possible, likely via a pneumatic hammer or a barge-mounted crane. Member R. Martin sought clarification on the mechanics of the build, asking, What is the construction process?

The project received a warm reception from both the board and the public. Abutter Judy Parks, who lives across the marsh on Brick Lane, voiced her enthusiasm for the project. We're right across the marsh from this, Parks said. And we're very excited to have you in the neighborhood. Member A. Wendell shared a personal connection to the site, noting, The 'Have to Have'—I used to use that boat ramp all the time. I know the property a little bit.

Chair G. Fellini, drawing on his previous tenure with the North River Commission, expressed confidence in the proposal's compliance with regional standards. I've seen a lot of this when I was on the North River Commission, Fellini said. I don't see any issues with it. Motion Made by A. Wendell to close the hearing for 160 Scusset Street. Motion Passed (3-0-0). Following the closure, the board moved to permit the work. Motion Made by R. Martin to issue an Order of Conditions for 160 Scusset Street contingent on North River Commission and Army Corps of Engineers approval. Motion Passed (3-0-0).

While the NSRWA project moved forward, two other local proposals faced delays due to missing state documentation. A Notice of Intent for 10 Parks Street was pushed to next month because a Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) file number had not yet been issued. Motion Made by G. Fellini to continue the hearing for 10 Parks Street to November 6th. Motion Passed (3-0-0).

Similarly, an Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation (ANRAD) for 660 Washington Street was deferred until a file number is secured and a peer review is completed. A board member noted that the extra time would allow environmental consultant Brad Holmes to verify the wetland boundaries. They've already sent a check, the member said, confirming the applicant had agreed to the peer review process. Motion Made by G. Fellini to continue the hearing for 660 Washington Street to November 6th. Motion Passed (3-0-0).