Medford Conservation Commission Approves MWRA Valve Project With Amended Planting Conditions

MEDFORD — October 7, 2020 — Medford Conservation Commission approves MWRA valve project and MBTA vegetation plan at remote October meeting. The commission voted 4-0 to issue an order of conditions for the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority's low-service pressure-reducing valve replacement at the Condon Shell parking lot, within the 200-foot Mystic River riverfront area, adding conditions requiring the substitution of Rhus glabra sumac for loam-and-seed plantings in the compensatory storage island and extending tree-protection barriers to the drip line where feasible — a net gain of 93 cubic feet of flood storage. One member recused for a conflict; a second abstained for missing the prior hearing. The commission then voted unanimously to issue a negative determination of applicability for the MBTA's 2021-2025 integrated vegetation management plan along the commuter rail right of way, finding the work will not alter protected wetland resource areas and does not require a Notice of Intent — with final approval of the broader plan by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources expected before December 31, 2020.