Plaistow site walk reviews road plan that could fill wetlands; developer pledges 66 acres preserved

The Town of Plaistow Planning Board held a site walk on June 6 at the intersection of Cole’s Way and Hoyt Farm Road to review a developer’s proposal for a new public road.

Chair Richard Anthony opened the walk at 9:35 a.m. and explained that members of the public could observe and ask questions. Applicant and builder Al Couillard presented two configurations: a design-standards-compliant alignment that would require filling wetlands “about 60 feet past the existing driveway,” and an alternate alignment that closely follows the existing driveway but would require waivers from the board’s roadway design standards.

Phil Christensen, the applicant’s engineer, described the technical standards behind the choice, saying the intersection design is governed by a 75-degree sightline requirement and a 250-foot centerline curve standard and noting that “at this intersection you can see straight to Forrest St.” Couillard said the proposed road would generally follow the existing driveway alignment, would connect with Hoyt Farm Road and “would become a public road.” Chair Anthony said the developer would not be required to upgrade the existing Forrest Street intersection as part of this proposal.

Residents asked a series of questions about traffic control, wetlands, tree removal and water supplies. When asked whether the intersection would have a stop sign, Anthony confirmed it would be a single stop sign for Cole’s Way. Secretary Dan Kane explained that wetlands permits and related jurisdictional reviews involve the Conservation Commission and the Planning Board; Phil Christensen and others discussed the technical and ecological dynamics of the wetlands. Several residents expressed concern about narrow curves on Forrest Street and the need for pedestrian-safety improvements.

Couillard said the project would set aside 66 acres of open space described in the application as upland area under 15% slope and not wetlands. He also told the board that state permits required after local approval would follow the Planning Board’s process and typically offer less opportunity for public comment. Couillard said he hoped to begin road construction in early 2027, estimated about four months for the road installation and roughly 2 to 2.5 years for full construction, and confirmed there is no restriction in the application preventing investment properties from purchasing units.

No motion or vote was taken at the site walk. The Planning Board will continue its formal review through the normal application process; state-level permits will be required before certain work can proceed. The site walk concluded and the meeting was adjourned at 10:16 a.m.