Dracut Selectmen, Planning Board OKs Open Space plan

DRACUT – The Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board have accepted the 2024 Open Space and Recreation Plan document, ensuring the town remains eligible for a variety of state grants to safeguard the town’s natural and recreational resources.

Selectmen voted to accept the 94-page document on Sept. 10 and the Planning Board on Sept. 11. The staff of the Northern Middlesex Council of Governments spent the last year updating the 2009 plan through public forums and surveys of townspeople.

The document states, “In the years since the 2009 plan, Dracut has made significant strides in preserving its open spaces and expanding recreational opportunities. Efforts have included improved outreach and engagement through Open Space Committee Landowner Seminars, committee sponsored walks and events, and a printed guide to conservation areas and hiking trails in Town.”

The results of the staff’s work on the current plan will be returned to NMCOG marked “recommended” by the two town boards. It will then be forwarded to the state for its records.

The document states, “The plan is dedicated to enhancing accessibility, safety, and community engagement within the region’s diverse conservation areas and recreational spots.” Eight priorities are identified.

Among the priorities are improving accessibility to all trails, picnic areas and waterfront locations; preserving existing conservation land; and encouraging more community involvement in these efforts.

Priorities also include enhancing  environmental education and stewardship, developing and maintaining accessible facilities, assessing road safety around open space and recreation areas

The plan urges town boards and committees to work collaboratively to meet the community’s open space and recreational goals. It particularly stresses the need for collaboration among the conservation, open space, and recreation committees.