Committee: Arlington Park & Recreation Commission
Date: May 16, 2023
Robbins Farm Final Design Review
The Commission reviewed the final design for Robbins Farm, presented by Agency Landscape. The design received positive feedback overall, with several questions and concerns raised by the Commission members. These included the color of surfaces and equipment, the height of the upper shed, tree additions and locations, picnic area layout, native plantings, accessibility, greenery and plant bed plans, stroller parking area detail, signage plan, pathway material, visually impaired features, truck accessibility, wall seating, and budget analysis. The public also provided comments, suggesting more color, sponsorship plaques, sensory nodes, and concerns about playground wood material and longevity. The Commission approved the final design with conditions for further consideration.
Menotomy Playground Review
The Commission reviewed the issues at Menotomy Rocks Park and the Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding requests. The Commission supported the plan to remove the playground, use Fiscal Year 2024 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for design services for renovations, and submit a fall CPA application for construction. The Commission agreed that leaving the playground in place was not an option due to safety concerns and that investing in the current structure was not responsible. The Commission discussed ways to build trust with the Friends of Menotomy. The Commission approved the motion to remove the existing play structure and border, keep the swings, add appropriate levels of engineered wood fiber, use Fiscal Year 2024 ARPA Funds for Design, and submit an emergency CPA Application for Fall Town Meeting.
Approval of Minutes
The Commission tabled the minutes of April 11, 2023.
Comments and Items for Future Meetings
The Commission discussed improving communication and notifications to the public.
Open Forum – Public Comment
Public comments included feedback on communication and requests for hybrid meetings. The benefits of the hybrid meeting model were also pointed out.
Source: https://www.arlingtonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/65800/638223464908399306