OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION PLAN FOR WESTWOOD, MASSACHUSETTS Prepared By: Open Space and Recreation Planning Committee With assistance from: PGC Associates, LLC. 1 Toni Lane Franklin, MA 02038 (508) 533-8106
[email protected] and JM Goldson community preservation + planning 236 Huntington Avenue Boston, MA 02115 617-872-0958
[email protected] Adopted by the Westwood Planning Board on February 26, 2019 # 2020-0047 Acknowledgements In September 2017, the Select Board appointed the Open Space and Recreation Planning Committee. Open Space and Recreation Planning Committee Maryanne Carty Roger Christian Ann Delaney Charles Donahue Michael Gay Brian Gorman John Hickey Pam Kane Tony Mullen Steve Olanoff Joe Previtera Chuck Sheehan R.J. Sheer Kristin Styer Todd Sullivan The OSRP Committee is supported in their work by members of the Town of Westwood professional staff. These staff members serve in an ex officio capacity. Ex Officio Members Ken Aries, Director of School Facilities Nicole Banks, Recreation Director Karon Skinner Catrone, Conservation Agent Michael Jaillet, Town Administrator Todd Korchin, Public Works Director Nora Loughnane, Community & Economic Development Director Abby McCabe, Town Planner i TABLE OF CONTENTS PLAN SUMMARY . 1 INTRODUCTION . 3 Statement of Purpose . 3 Prior Open Space and Recreation Efforts . 3 Planning Process and Public Participation . 4 COMMUNITY SETTING . 8 Regional Context . 8 History of the Community. .10 Population Characteristics . .15 Growth and Development Patterns . 21 ENVIRONMENTAL INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS . 27 Geology, Soils and Topography . 27 Landscape Character . 30 Water Resources . 31 Vegetation, Wildlife and Fisheries. 34 Rare and Endangered Species . 36 Scenic Resources and Unique Environments . 38 Environmental Challenges . 42 INVENTORY OF LAND OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION INTEREST .