Norwood Recreation requests $175,000 for ADA ramp at Balch School to improve field access
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Summary
Interim recreation director Samuel White asked the CPC for $175,000 (net) to build an ADA‑compliant concrete ramp from the Balch parking lot to Elliott Field; applicants said previous CPA and town funds reduce the net CPA request to $175,000 of a $248,000 project.
Samuel White, interim recreation director for the Town of Norwood, asked the Community Preservation Commission on Jan. 22 for $175,000 in CPA funds to build an American with Disabilities Act (ADA)‑compliant concrete ramp from the rear Balch School parking lot down to Elliott Field.
"Today, I come to propose $175,000 for an ADA compliant concrete ramp to gain access from the back of the Balch parking lots into Elliott Field," White told the commission. He said the ramp would replace a steep staircase that limits access for people with disabilities, caregivers with strollers and people carrying sports equipment.
Scope and cost: White presented plans showing a zig‑zag concrete ramp with switchback landings meeting ADA slope limits and handrails, anticipated life span of 25+ years, and landscaping to replace two trees that would be removed. The application identifies a gross project cost of $248,000 with about $73,000 of previously appropriated funds available; the net CPA request is $175,000. The application also includes in‑house DPW labor that is not billed to CPA funds.
Schedule and construction details: The project team proposes to start construction immediately after the school year ends (mid‑June), with an expected maximum 60‑day construction period and a target opening by mid‑August. White said the town expects to use the same designer previously retained for earlier access work; commissioners discussed ramp location, slope, handrails and surface material (concrete chosen for durability). "Durability is the reason for concrete," White said, and staff said the design will include handrails and landings to meet ADA limits.
Commission discussion: Commissioners asked whether the existing stair access would remain (it will), whether landscaping and tree replacement plans are included (applicants said yes), and whether the earlier balance of CPA funds could allow an earlier start (staff said existing funds make a mid‑June start feasible). Members discussed alternative ramp siting closer to Pond Street to reduce ramp length; proponents said the proposed location reduces vehicle proximity and is preferable from a safety perspective.
Next steps: The presentation was heard as part of the CPC's public hearing schedule; the commission will consider a formal recommendation and vote on Feb. 5.