Residents urge city officials to protect tree buffer amid development concerns

Concerns over tree preservation and neighborhood buffering took center stage at the Woburn Planning Board meeting on January 9, 2024. Residents voiced their worries about the potential removal of trees that serve as a crucial noise barrier from nearby commercial activities, particularly from large trucks operating in the area.

Marlene Solaire, a local resident, emphasized the importance of maintaining the tree line, stating, “Without those trees, my family could not sleep, neither would the neighbors.” She highlighted the noise disturbances caused by trucks parked nearby, which have been a persistent issue for the community. Solaire and other residents expressed their desire for the tree line to be included in the property deed to ensure its protection from future development.

The discussion also touched on the proposal to either deed the land to the city or establish an easement, which would provide some level of assurance regarding the preservation of the trees. Paul McDonald, another resident, echoed these sentiments, arguing that deeding the land to the city would be the only way to guarantee the trees remain intact. He warned that without such measures, new property owners could easily remove the trees, jeopardizing the neighborhood's natural buffer.

The Planning Board acknowledged the residents' concerns and noted that discussions with the Department of Public Works (DPW) have been ongoing regarding water management in the area. However, the board also pointed out that waivers for certain requirements, including sidewalks and street trees, are still being sought by the developers.

As the meeting concluded, the community's call for action was clear: residents are united in their desire to protect their environment and maintain the quality of life in their neighborhood. The Planning Board's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of the tree line and the overall development plan.