Chelsea City’s Planning Board meeting on April 22, 2025, focused on a proposed development that aims to enhance stormwater management in the area. The meeting highlighted a significant proposal for a new building, which includes a comprehensive stormwater mitigation system designed to manage runoff effectively.

Len Bufard, the project designer, presented details about the stormwater system, which will be installed beneath the garage slab. This innovative approach is intended to comply with state regulations, ensuring that the system is at least 10 feet away from property lines. The design aims to capture and redirect runoff from the building's roof and driveway into an infiltration system, significantly reducing the impact on surrounding properties.

Currently, the lot is empty, and rainwater either seeps into the ground or flows into the street. The new system is expected to manage 90% of impervious surface runoff, directing it away from the street and into the site, which is crucial given the lot's elevation relative to the road.

The meeting also addressed the layout of the property, including shared access and parking arrangements with adjacent buildings owned by the same developer. This aspect of the project is designed to facilitate smoother traffic flow and parking for residents and visitors.

As the Planning Board continues to evaluate the proposal, the community can anticipate improvements in stormwater management that will benefit both the new development and the surrounding area. The next steps will involve further discussions and public comments as the project moves forward.