CPA Projects – Detailed Report

This project proposes to appropriate $435,000 from the Fund Balance Account for acquisition for conservation purposes under Chapter 44B, parcels of land located at 443 and 457 Lake Street and 104 Grove Street aka the Howe/Sears Family Farm. The proposed project would be the contribution of half of the funds required to purchase the property with the remaining funds provided via American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.   With the purchase of this property the Town hopes to create connectivity between current Town owned land to promote passive recreation, such as walking trails, and preserve open and natural space in Town. These parcels help to create connectivity between Lake Street Park all the way to Camp Wunnegan through sidewalks and walking trails. The Town is working to develop a formal trail network throughout the Town and this project contributes to this effort. The Greater Worcester Land Trust has expressed interest in the project and holding the conservation restriction on the property.