The Plymouth Town Meeting held on October 19, 2024, addressed significant funding for the Route 80 Cemetery project, with a proposed appropriation of $3,472,162. This funding plan includes borrowing $972,162 under Massachusetts General Laws and transferring $2.5 million from free cash, requiring a two-thirds vote for approval.

During the discussion, resident Donna Curtin raised concerns regarding the project's impact on a historically significant parcel of land that has remained largely undisturbed since the 18th century. She emphasized the need for greater public awareness and discussion about the proposed alterations, which she believes could surprise many community members. Curtin questioned the level of professional archaeological survey conducted on the site, expressing concern over potential undiscovered historical artifacts.

In response, Diane McGuire, the cemetery and crematory superintendent, assured attendees that substantial archaeological surveys had already been completed. She noted that two surveys were conducted by a Rhode Island archaeological firm, which included a grid search of a specific site containing the remains of a building associated with a freed black Revolutionary War slave. McGuire confirmed that the Massachusetts Historic Commission had reviewed and approved the findings, allowing the project to proceed.

Curtin followed up by asking how the findings had been communicated to the public, highlighting that the Massachusetts Historic report is not publicly accessible. McGuire explained that the cemetery commission had reviewed the report and outlined plans to preserve a three-acre area containing historical remnants, which will be marked with an interpretive sign to educate the public about its significance.

The meeting underscored the balance between development and historical preservation, with community members expressing a desire for more transparency and engagement regarding significant local projects. The outcome of the vote on the funding proposal remains to be seen, as discussions continue around the implications of the Route 80 Cemetery project.