Committee hears plan for ADA walkway at the Pines and other trail projects

Michelle, speaking for the recreation committee, proposed creating an ADA‑compliant paved walkway around the Pines Recreation area to allow safe stroller and wheelchair access and to knit together existing amenities such as the dog park, baseball/football fields and the skate park.

"I would like to see if the Pines is some form of ADA‑compliant walkway," Michelle said, describing a paved perimeter path that would let people use strollers and wheelchairs rather than walking repeatedly in the parking lot. Members noted the proposal aligns with the town master plan and trail‑connection efforts, including the Merrimack River trail.

Committee members flagged practical constraints and coordination needs: the water department plans major infrastructure below the skate park that the path design would need to avoid, and conservation rules require permits for work within 200 feet of the Merrimack River. The committee suggested Michelle file the project's eligibility application so staff can start technical coordination and put the project through the formal review process.

Members also discussed a related idea—relatively limited river access or picnic areas near Shanahan Field—relaying a suggestion from a recreation committee member that would require conservation review and permitting. The committee treated these ideas as brainstorming and directed staff to assess feasibility and likely permit requirements before any scope or budget decisions.