Jon Siafakas

The Traffic Commission discussed several traffic-related matters. Regarding heavy trucking, they addressed complaints about trucks misinterpreting signs and becoming trapped in a residential area, resulting in property damage. The Commission voted to move signage and add a no-left-turn restriction. The commission also reviewed parking congestion issues on Walnut Hill Park caused by commercial operations; this matter was continued to a future meeting to allow parties to negotiate. Finally, the Commission discussed a long-standing request for a flashing pedestrian beacon on Montvale Avenue, ultimately deciding to communicate a reaffirmation of the need for this safety feature.

The Planning Board considered and endorsed two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans for Lexington Street and Ingalls Street. The Board approved an extension for the construction completion date of the Downs Court Definitive Subdivision to September 30, 2019. Significant discussion occurred regarding proposed zoning text and map amendments to establish a Smart Growth Overlay District at 300 Mishawum Road (Woburn Mall), with focus on affordable housing, traffic mitigation, and design standards. The Board requested further information on traffic impacts, potential prohibition of nightly rentals, and clarification on design standard enforcement before continuing the public hearing to a future date.

The committee reviewed a special permit application for Citizens Bank regarding a site plan modification, which included the construction of a building addition and drive-up ATM service. Discussions focused on potential off-site traffic improvements, coordination with the City Engineer, and necessary sewer infrastructure dialogues with the Department of Public Works. The committee also clarified the scope of the project, noting that the renovation primarily involves cosmetic changes and maintains existing utility usage.

The committee reviewed and recommended the approval of several appointments: Mark E. Gaffney to the Woburn Golf & Ski Authority, Carolyn Peary to the Board of Trustees of the Woburn Public Library, and both John Wetzel and Richard A. Sawyer to the Woburn Commission on Disability.

The meeting included an update from the City Council Liaison regarding ongoing projects in the North Woburn area. The board discussed and approved several Downtown Storefront Improvement applications, including grants for 3 Country Bistro and the Oriental Chinese Restaurant. There was a deliberation regarding the eligibility of religious organizations for funding and potential expansion of the eligible geographic area. Additionally, the board conditionally approved a façade loan application for SciKidz LLC, discussed event planning for the pocket park, and received reports on the Downtown Area Plan study and internal administrative updates.