Windswept Village developer: 'This project will be done correctly'

Mar 7, 2017

Developer and Yard Boss owner Todd Rodrigues was a little frustrated that a request for an “insignificant” change to his building plans resulted in a discussion on other previously approved aspects of his new plaza.

Rodrigues, who came before the Planning Board on Monday night, already received an OK to build Windswept Plaza, a multi-building development that will include spaces for several businesses as well as nine apartments.

The reason for his return to the board is that, in reviewing the handicap accessibility requirement for one ground floor apartment, Rodrigues’ company realized a necessary expansion of the building’s footprint was just big enough to require approval from the Planning Board.

The amendment is for a total of 12 feet on the eastern most building.

“It’s insignificant,” Rodrigues said.

But Planning Board Members had some questions, particularly if the driveway was positioned in such a way that it would be safe for cars exiting the development.

Rodrigues said that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation will review the site. Some board members also considered requiring him to create a detailed landscaping plan to make sure the plans along the edge don’t hinder sight lines for drivers.

Planning Board secretary Mary Crain said such precautions are already built into the town’s bylaws.

Rodrigues added,  “I wouldn’t want our customers to feel unsafe by driving in or out. That’s just a good practice to have. It’s common sense at this point.”

He also stressed that the only part of the plan changing is extending one building.

“I’m coming back here and now you’re adding more stuff to this agenda,” he said. “…So now to go back and disapprove and go against this board’s decision last year kind of defeats the purpose of what they’ve already approved. This project will be done correctly. We’d just like to move forward with this.”

Ultimately, the board unanimously approved the amendment.