The new fairgrounds at Pine Street are already being mowed and shaping up nicely despite  negative attention, according to Rochester Country Fair committee member Julie Koczera. After the Board of Selectmen’s approval of the location last month the committee quickly went to work mowing paths and filling steep trenches.

“We are answering and addressing any concerns that the residents may have," Koczera said. "Our intention is to develop the fairgrounds into an attractive location that fits in with the rural community.”

But one resident isn’t so sure.

“The infrastructure just isn’t ready for this,” said Paul Costa. Costa repeatedly said he isn't against the Rochester Country Fair or the grounds, but rather how the grounds are used for other events. “Our roads are already bad enough. We should be concerned about the traffic and environmental impacts. This is the last piece of open space in the town and I think this happened without the consequences in mind.”

Costa also said many residents weren’t informed of the decision to make the field at Pine Street the new fairgrounds. Because of the situation he is asking for support from the neighborhood and plans to speak at the Board of Selectmen Monday, August 22 at 7 p.m. The committee will be discussing plans for fencing, parking and events at the new location.

However, committee member Dave Souza believes many of the neighbors are for the project.

“We want to make everything right for everyone,” he said. “We’re taking every precaution in the completion of the field and we’ve asked for input from those around. We’ve talked with the abutters to the south of the fields and said we’ll put up a stockade fence or whatever he prefers.”

Souza also mentioned hearing concern about the field hosting the Cole Bros. Circus, which has been held at Plumb Corner and put on by the Plumb Corner Associates. He said the committee’s best interest, however, lies in the Rochester Country Fair.

“We can vote the circus out as a committee,” he said. “But ultimately it’s up to the Selectmen. But from what I’ve heard, it doesn’t sound like that will be a problem.”

Rochester Police Chief Paul Magee believed the traffic and parking issue won't be difficult to deal with either.

"There are a number of spaces available," Magee said. "Parking onsite will be very decent and another key place will be the elementary school. Everything is in the development stage right now but we're working with the committee closely."

Magee also mentioned the flow of traffic should be easy to handle. He said the area of Pine Street from Rochester Memorial School to the fairgrounds would be accessed for pedestrians only, excluding parking at the school. The Pine Street and Snipatuit Road intersection, however, would be open to vehicles for parking at the grounds.

"The roads are very narrow already," Magee said. "This is the best way to handle it. And we have no foreseeable problems or a need for shifts in staff either. Many things will be handled similar to the past."

David Souza added progress on the work has been great and the committee is looking for any volunteers to help.