On Monday, October 7, 2019, Norwood Town Meeting members unanimously voted to approve a warrant article authorizing the spending of $338,000 in Community Preservation Act Funds to purchase a 6.8-acre lot behind 84 Morse St., often referred to as the “Saints Lot.”

The town will preserve the parcel as open space for passive recreation, and plans to build a walking path along the Neponset River. The preservation of this greenway is a testament to the community and their tireless advocacy to protect this resource for a vibrant neighborhood.

The Neponset River Watershed Association partnered with Norwood residents last year to advocate for responsible redevelopment at 84 Morse St. The original proposal by Boch Automotive included clearcutting the mature trees and other natural vegetation of the Saints Lot to create a car storage lot. Such development would have been devastating for the neighborhood, potentially increasing the risk of flooding and pollution of the river and Hawes Brook.

Late last year, the developer agreed to sell the undeveloped lot to the town, and altered the original redevelopment plans to include appropriate treatment of polluted stormwater runoff before it enters the Neponset. The town vote on the 7^th brings the effort full circle, and will allow the town to complete the sale and create a beautiful green space along the river for all town residents to enjoy.

Kudos to Town officials and Town Meeting members for recognizing the opportunity to preserve important greenspace! It not only will provide recreational opportunities, but also will serve to provide important protections for nearby water resources.

Kerry Snyder, Advocacy Director