The Bedford Planning Board on June 16 approved a site‑plan amendment that finalizes the design of a private boulevard at East Point Drive and permits project phasing for two previously approved automobile dealerships (Toyota and Mercedes Benz) and associated parking.

Why it matters: The amendment clears outstanding design and utility details for a multi‑parcel commercial development that will change traffic patterns at South River Road and East Point Drive and includes off‑site intersection improvements and sidewalks recommended by traffic peer review and DOT.

Key details
- The boulevard is a private roadway about 1,400 feet long with two 14‑foot travel lanes separated by an 8‑foot landscaped median and a five‑foot sidewalk along the south side; the plan includes a northbound left‑turn lane on South River Road and other off‑site improvements subject to DOT review.
- The board approved project phasing: Phase 1 (Toyota building and associated inventory parking), Phase 2 (additional inventory parking), Phase 3 (Mercedes building and remaining parking), and Phase 4 (completion of the boulevard and off‑site improvements). The applicant proposed timing ranges tied to stabilization and DES stormwater disturbance limits.
- Utilities (electrical conduit, 8‑inch water, gas) will be run under the boulevard; separate drainage systems and infiltration basins are shown for the roadway and dealerships.

Applicant notes
- The design was peer reviewed (VHB) and some comments remain under DOT review, including signal timing and modifications to the acceleration/turn lanes at the East Point Drive/South River Road intersection. The boulevard design includes landscaped islands, street trees and lighting.

Board action
- The board approved the site‑plan amendment and phasing with conditions 1–8 in the staff memo dated 06/16/2025, and the approval included required pre‑construction submittals and coordination with the Department of Transportation for off‑site work.