The Westford Planning Board held a special meeting on Monday, September 29, to review public hearings on zoning bylaw amendments and the continued site plan review for the proposed development at 37 Powers Road.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
The board opened with a proposed amendment on accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Members discussed aligning local parking requirements with state regulations, changing the language from “not more than one” space to “at least one” space for local ADUs. The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) also supported this clarification.
Bob Shaffer on the Planning Board raised concerns over a phrase in the draft purpose statement that could limit ADUs to existing buildings. He recommended dropping the line “without adding to the number of buildings” to avoid confusion about carriage houses or detached units. The board continued the hearing to October 6 to allow for further language refinement.
Table of Principal Uses
The board next discussed zoning amendment to Appendix A, which sets the table of principal uses. Both the ZBA and the Economic Development Committee (EDC) recommended approval. Members agreed to keep the ZBA as the special permit granting authority. The hearing was closed, with staff preparing a final report for the October 6 meeting.
MBTA Communities Overlay District
This hearing focused on an amendment to the MBTA Communities multifamily overlay district involving the Gutierrez Company’s property. The ZBA and EDC both supported the plan, which reduces the district’s overall size while encouraging mixed-use development. The board praised the proposal as an improvement that aligns with Westford’s housing and economic goals. The hearing was closed, with a report due October 6.
Tiered Site Plan Review
The board considered adjustments to the tiered site plan review bylaw. The ZBA requested changing the language from “restriping” to “reconfiguring” for clarity and recommended keeping the status quo on special permit granting authority for now. The hearing was continued to October 6 for final language review.
37 Powers Road Development
The most extensive discussion of the evening centered on the continued site plan review for 37 Powers Road, a major multifamily project by ZD acquisitions.
The discussion started with Jeff Morrissette providing an update on the proposed package that’s seeking further input from the board and the Town Counsel to refine the proposal.
Attorney Melissa Robbins, representing the applicant, presented updated plans and renderings, including views from Powers Road highlighting the berm and landscaping intended to screen the buildings. Consultants from Hancock Associates, Dodson & Flinker, TEC, and Tighe & Bond reviewed stormwater, architectural, traffic, and engineering concerns.
Key points included:
- Additional easements will be drafted and reviewed by Town Counsel.
- A $40,000 traffic mitigation payment will be made at the time of building permit, giving the town flexibility to address potential issues before full occupancy.
- Building elevations and landscaping exhibits will be provided before the next meeting.
- Conditions of approval will address screening of mechanical equipment, retaining walls, and invasive species.
Board members emphasized the importance of sharing presentation materials publicly before meetings and praised the extensive work on draft decisions. The hearing was continued to October 6.
General Business
The board approved the draft decision for 219 Littleton Road and voted to accept the minutes of July 21, 2025.
