WESTFORD — The Planning Board on January 22 continued several public hearings, approved a modification to a previously approved site plan on Carl Thompson Road, and opened a new public hearing for a definitive subdivision plan at the Nashoba Valley Ski Area.
Carl Thompson Road site plan modifications
Applicant NewQuality Fence Corporation, represented by engineer Matt Waterman of LandTech Consultants with Sean Nichols of New Quality Fence Company, stated that the proposal does not change operations or building layout, but reflects value-engineering refinements, including stormwater management, minor paving adjustments, gate relocation, reduced tree clearing, and an updated lighting plan.
The most significant change involved additional site lighting, proposed for safety and early-morning operations. The applicant stated that all fixtures would be downward-facing, dark-sky-compliant LEDs, mounted on 14-foot poles, with automated timers set Monday through Friday.
The Board held a formal public hearing, emphasizing the importance of maintaining visual buffers and minimizing light spill to abutting residential properties.
Several abutters voiced concerns about potential light trespassing into backyards and bedrooms. Board members and the applicant emphasized:
- Fixtures are fully shielded and directed inward
- Outermost light contours reach only ~0.2 foot-candles at the property line (equivalent to a moonlit night or dimly lit hallway)
- Additional landscaping could fill gaps in the existing coniferous buffer
- A storage corral may further block sight lines
- Any post-installation light trespass complaints would trigger review and possible adjustments
The Board conditioned approval on final engineering sign-off, public posting of all related correspondence, and language ensuring lights remain MIT Haystack – compliant to minimize light pollution. The decision is expected to be signed at the February 2, 2026 meeting.
Nashoba Valley Ski Area Subdivision hearing opened
Attorney Melissa Robbins, representing the applicant, presented a definitive subdivision plan for 79 Powers Road and adjacent parcels. The filing is the second step in a zoning-protection process and proposes two lots (reduced from three in the September preliminary approval).
No construction is currently planned; the application secures zoning allowances should future development occur. Any roadway would remain private, and stormwater management is addressed. No waivers were requested.
Resident Lynn Smith on Powers Road raised ecological concerns regarding wildlife impacts and lot placement, noting endangered yellow-spotted and blue-spotted salamanders in the area and urging preservation of habitat amid nearby development.
The Board will forward the plan to engineering for review of subdivision standards and stormwater compliance. The public hearing was continued to March 2, 2026, to allow time for engineering review.
