Weston CPC debates $1.475 million Burchard Park courts project scope

WESTON — February 6, 2023 — Weston CPC weighs $1.475 million Burchard Park courts project as scope questions mount. The Community Preservation Committee reviewed three CPA funding applications at its February 6 meeting, with the bulk of debate focused on a combined pickleball, tennis, and basketball court replacement proposal from the Recreation Master Plan Steering Committee and Recreation Commission, presented by committee chair Melissa and designer Patrick McGuire of Activitas. Members acknowledged economies of scale estimated at 5 to 15 percent from combining the projects but pressed for itemized cost breakdowns, confirmation that soft costs are captured, and an updated site plan before the public hearing slated for March 13. The committee also heard a routine $42,000 affordable housing services request from Affordable Housing Trust Chair Sarah Radigan and a $20,000 feasibility study ask for a Case Estates Rhododendron Garden restoration from advocate Michael Harrity, who noted the Weston 300 Fund has committed $5,000 toward the estimated $25,000 study cost. A late application for the Ash Street sidewalk, submitted by a Select Board member roughly three weeks past the CPC deadline, was turned away on precedent and optics grounds, with members directing the proponents to apply in the fall cycle.