12/14/2017 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT COMMITTEE Minutes

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4 Community Preservation Committee Minutes December 14, 2017 Mashpee Conservation Commission/Mash ce Planning Board/Mashpee DPW Catherine Laurent Andrew McManus Mashpee Greenwa / uashnet River Path and Footbridge: (continued) Ms. Waygan spoke on behalf of the project submitted by the Conservation Department and co- applicant the Mashpee Planning Board. Elements of the Mashpee Greenway project include trail connection to the schools, open space and recreational land. The project has been envisioned with the Planning Board and Mashpee Commons since 2014 to connect the commercial center with a mix of recreational and open space uses. The Board of Selectmen was noted to have prioritized a woodland path from Mashpee Commons to the Mashpee High School. To cross the Quashnet River, it is necessary to construct a footbridge. This is a large component of the project, and would open the connection of new and improved woodland trails within this beautiful section of Mashpee. It was noted the Falmouth 300 Committee has interest in connecting their trail network to Mashpee's proposed trails and the footbridge. Discussion followed with respect to the trail that connects directly to the Middle/High School softball field. Walkers and hikers would not have the ability to access this trail if school is in session. There was concern regarding the potential for irresponsible users of the trails, and inviting others to access the high school grounds. There is no path lighting, and this type of environment may create undesirable activities and create a situation where students may be at risk. In response, Andrew McManus, Conservation Agent indicated the Conservation Department is working diligently to improve entire trail system thoughout the Town. The department is also creating videos for the visual enhancement of trails. Mr. McManus indicated he is in favor of this project which would produce more responsible users. Improvement when created with added visibility, maintenance, and monitoring tends to eliminate the irresponsible users. It was noted the Town of Mashpee has applied for grant funding to support the creation of trails. Unfortunately, the Town did not qualify for the past funding round. With a plan in place, an additional grant funding request will be submitted.