NORTHFIELD — Discussion regarding whether to allow a campground to be built on Pierson Road will continue Tuesday, when the Planning Board resumes its public hearing that drew a large crowd earlier this month.
When the hearing was first held on July 18, the Planning Board heard from representatives of the camp and residents. After more than an hour and a half of discussion, the Planning Board chose to continue the matter to its next meeting. The meeting will start at 6 p.m. at Town Hall.
The proposed campground, which requires a permit from the Planning Board, would be built on The Moody Center’s property on Pierson Road. The campground would be a for-profit organization and operate independently from The Moody Center.
Jeff Rinehart, speaking on behalf of the campground, explained the scope of the plans, with residents expressing their concerns with how the campground would impact their neighborhood. Those in attendance worried about increased activity in the area. With Pierson Road being the only way to access the entrance to the proposed campground, residents worried about traffic build-up and noise pollution.
According to Rinehart, the proposed plan includes a main pavilion for guests to check in. The pavilion would also house community showers and bathrooms. These bathrooms would coincide with more than 20 platform canvas tents that would be built on the property for seasonal guests.
Additionally, multiple A-frame cabins are included in the plan, which would have their own bathrooms and accommodate year-round guests. Rinehart said the campground, if approved, would not allow RVs or trailers.
Zack DeLuca can be reached at zdeluca@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 264.