Committee delays acceptance of Wakefield upper parking lot over grass failures and damaged light bases

Wakefield building committee members postponed formal acceptance of the upper parking lot after discussing failed grass establishment, incomplete site amenities and two damaged light‑pole bases.

A committee member said the front island’s hydroseed “didn't grow” and expressed concern that accepting the lot now would forfeit warranty leverage. Project staff said they had issued an acceptance letter limited to the plantings but acknowledged the grasses did not establish because seeding occurred outside the growing window. Staff recommended the contractor return to re‑seed and perform necessary soil work to create a plantable surface.

Members also confirmed that damaged concrete light‑pole bases must be repaired before the poles are set. Bond, the general contractor, prefers to install poles once the bases are restored to avoid repeat mobilizations. The committee asked staff to coordinate timing with Joe Conway and town operations to ensure repairs and installations align with the fall planting window.

The committee requested a consolidated punch‑list and follow‑up schedule and agreed to revisit acceptance once the contractor provides proof of corrective work and completed watering schedules.