Land trust seeks to replace failing footbridge on Barrett's Mill; commission agrees conditions for permit

The Concord Land Conservation Trust presented a request to replace a failing footbridge on trust property at Barrett's Mill Road and described modest realignment and measures to reduce erosion around the bridge approaches.

Alexey (land stewardship manager) told the commission the existing three‑timber crossing is deteriorating and the trust proposes a slightly longer, 10‑foot timber bridge with footings set back from the stream bank and temporary erosion control during construction. He said the trust intends to install live stakes and brush barriers to stabilize the eroding bank and place signage discouraging channel use by dogs.

Commissioners discussed whether to remove old in‑channel footings or leave them to avoid creating larger holes in the bank; the commission also asked that any invasive material used for temporary bank barriers be free of viable seed. Alexey agreed and the trustees and staff will refine the plan to meet those conditions.

A motion to issue a Negative Determination (No. 3) with conditions — preconstruction site visit and a post‑construction compliance letter — passed unanimously.

Next steps: Land Trust to coordinate with staff on erosion‑control details and a winter planting schedule for live stakes; staff to perform a preconstruction visit.