Land Bank says Lily Pond permitting still in review; projects funded and drawings advancing

Land Bank staff updated the commission Dec. 9 on major capital projects, saying permitting timelines, grant reimbursements and design work are proceeding in parallel so projects can begin construction when permits arrive.

On Lily Pond, staff said the Section 401 water-quality certification is under review and that comparable dredge projects have taken nine months to a year to close; staff said they hope to see a decision in January but acknowledged the review could extend through the summer. "We are trying to build up all these other pieces of the puzzle so that once we do get that 401 water quality certification, we're ready to go," the staff presenter said.

Staff reported $850,734 spent on Lily Pond to date, a construction budget of about $5.7 million, roughly $100,000 in grant awards already received, and roughly $500,000 in reimbursable grant funds expected to be submitted for reimbursement. The design has not changed materially, but staff described decisions under review (boardwalk vs. grass path, bench materials, ADA improvements) to be finalized before construction.

On the Jefferson/41 site, staff said about $60,000 has been spent on design, owner’s project management and feasibility work (credited in the transcript to Woods Hole Group and other consultants). Staff warned of coastal-sand-management challenges once buildings and a large stockade fence are removed and said consultants will return with design options — possibly including retaining walls — to protect a parking area.

For the bike park, staff reported a $1.5 million construction budget and $57,684.62 spent to date; outreach with neighborhood stakeholders has informed parking and overflow configurations and staff said the design-build procurement will be used to consolidate design and construction responsibilities.

Staff said construction start dates remain dependent on permits (notably the Section 401 certification) and that timing could shift to avoid denying summer access if permits are delayed.