Historic-district committee asks Select Board to pause front-entry accessibility plan for Carlton Hall

The Old Kings Highway Regional Historic District Committee voted unanimously to forward a letter to the Select Board asking that the proposed front-entry accessibility design for Carlton Hall be paused and that project designers evaluate a side-entry alternative. Committee member James Pazakis read the letter into the record, saying the committee "recognizes and supports the importance of improving accessibility" but is concerned the proposed sloped walkway, railings, grade changes and conversion of the historic entrance to a single motorized door "would significantly modernize and alter the appearance of this historically important entrance."

The committee asked the Select Board to direct the project team to study relocating the primary accessible entrance to the parking-lot side of the building, which the letter frames as a way to provide accessible entry while preserving the historic Old Bass River Road facade. Members stressed they support accessibility goals but urged review of alternatives before substantial design work and expenditure are committed. The committee agreed to forward the letter (with minor grammar corrections) to the Select Board.