The Commons Wows Exeter Conservation Commission

In a rare move, Commission unanimously agrees

to write a letter of support for community center project

Squamscott Community Commons presented details of our final wetlands application to the Exeter Conservation Commission on January 8th. The Commission was impressed by The Commons’ leadership in the restoration of the Little River. All members indicated their full support of the project. Brendan Quigley, of Gove Environmental Services of Exeter, assisted The Commons in developing its wetlands improvement plan. Says Quigley, “The primary goal of this project is to improve what’s already there . . . a redevelopment like this is a good opportunity because there are a number of areas where improvement is needed.” The Commons proposes removing a 40 foot section of an existing parking lot closest to the Little River. The material will be used to raise a proposed school bus road out of the 100 year floodplain. The result is an increased natural buffer between the parking lot and the river, and a safer road. “By far the biggest positive impact will be created from the comprehensive storm water management controls that are part of the design. Water quality and wildlife habitat will be improved,” commented Quigley. “Another value is increased public access for recreation and aesthetic purposes. I’m hard pressed to think of another private project that offers this opportunity.”

For more on The Commons’ wetlands improvement plan, go to www. squamscott.org.