This morning, “06880” reported on the first day of construction for the new Long Lots Elementary School. Homeowners just south of the property reported that carefully drawn plans had been disregarded, resulting in clearance of an estimated 6,000 square feet of mature vegetation and growth beyond the construction road.
This afternoon, the Long Lots School Building Committee responded. They told “06880”:
This statement is intended to address the story regarding the over-clearing of vegetation on the Long Lots campus in close proximity to a resident’s home. We would like to explain what happened, and what steps are being taken to address the situation.
Despite the extensive planning and multiple site visits conducted to review the area on the east side of the Long Lots campus which was designated for limited clearing, some additional vegetation beyond the intended scope was mistakenly removed by the contractor as the road for construction vehicles was installed.
It was a mistake and should not have happened. The issue has been reviewed extensively with all involved to ensure mistakes like this are not repeated.
Pre- and post-construction views.
To remedy the situation, a plan has been developed to plant a large evergreen buffer (in addition to similar plantings which will be planted on the site in the future) in the affected area within the next 1 to 2 weeks.
The homeowner who is most affected by this over-clearing will be involved in the placement of the trees in advance of the plantings. The Building Committee’s project manager has already been in contact with the homeowner. A separate letter to Planning and Zoning which details this remediation is also in the process of being delivered.
While we sincerely regret this error at the start of the new school construction process, we also see the proposed remediation as an opportunity to improve the plans for the final result. Upon project completion, the landscape buffer between the school property and the residence closest to the east side of the campus will be enhanced over the previous mix of unkept trees and the initial proposed single layer of evergreens.
Again, we regret the mistake and we will work to ensure it is not repeated.
Sincerely,
The Long Lots Building Committee