8330_SITE PLAN- W.S. CONGREGATION OF JEHOVAHS WITNESS- NORTH WESTFIELD ST. #St3�
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T 36 Main Street Agawam, Massachusetts 01001-1837
Tel. 413-786-0400 Fax 413-786-9927
PLANNING BOARD
November 22, 2004
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Eric Roberts 77 t"
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West'Springfield Congregation of Jehova's Witnesses
P.O. Box 713
Southwick, MA 01077 U—
Dear Mr. Roberts:
At its duly called meeting held on November 18, 2004, the Agawam Planning Board voted to .
return the Site Plan entitled "Kingdom Hall Site - 989 North Westfield'Street,,Feeding Hills,
MA; Prepared by: Ecotec Environmental Associates Inc.; Dated: Sept. 2004" back to the
applicant for further information. More specifically, the Board is requiring a traffic study,
prepared by a certified traffic engineer, be submitted and reviewed by the Town. Other issues
discussed at the meeting were: installation of visual barriers to prevent headlights from shining
on abutters houses/properties; indicate the limits of work on the plan; relocate the maintenance '
shed; install shutters on the windows and doors; make the back of the building brick; consider
using brick on the maintenance building; lighting plan to be submitted showing
photogrammetrics (all lighting to be shielded and shining inward toward property); show
adequate/improved street lighting on North Westfield Street; and indicate on plans that no
exterior speakers/bells will be used.
Sincerely,
Dennis B. Hopkins, Chairman
AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD
cc: Building Inspector, Engineering Dept., Town Clerk, Ecotec, File
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David J. Goggin
Margaret M. Nicklaw
167 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills MA 01030
Town of Agawam
Planning Board
Main Street
Agawam MA 01001
November 24, 2004
RE: Proposed Jehovah's Witness Church on North Westfield Street
To Whom It May Concern:
On November 18, 2004, we attended the Planning Board meeting to listen to the
presentation of the proposed church to be located on a parcel of land on North Westfield
Street. We found it particularly interesting that this particular chapter of the Jehovah's
Witnesses is from West Springfield. Why would the West Springfield branch of this
church choose to locate in Agawam unless is it because of lax zoning guidelines that
Agawam has adopted that allow a church to build anywhere. While we realize it is much
to late in the game to change what is happening in our neighborhood, we would urge you
to present a zoning change for churches to the City Council so that this travesty cannot
happen to another beautiful neighborhood of tax paying residents of Agawam.
That said, we now wish to present our concerns regarding this project. We concur with
everyone who attended that Planning Board meeting in that safety is of prime importance.
That section of Route 187, known as May Hollow, is treacherous. We have lived on
Parkedge Drive for just about 17 years. Neighbors have been in accidents there, cars fly
over the hill and screech on their brakes when they see my son's stopped school bus.
Winter is particularly terrible with slippery road conditions and white outs from
windblown snow off surrounding trees making it very scary and, at times, impassable.
To add significantly to the traffic already present is a huge mistake.
While we understand that a traffic study is being done;,, we worry that it only counts the
number of cars going by and does not take into account the speed at which they travel.
This is a major factor in the dangerous nature of this strip of Route 187 and should be
accounted for in the traffic study. Furthermore, we agree that the traffic study should
incorporate winter weather as well, since it plays such a huge part in the treacherousness
of May Hollow.
NOV 3 0 2004
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It is our hope that the traffic study, together with your personal visit and tour of this area,
will show that this parcel is not a viable site for the proposed church. However, if
somehow it gets through this initial phase, we would like to express our concerns
regarding the building itself. In viewing the building plans, we couldn't help but
questions why the building had to be constructed so far into our neighborhood. Although
we understand that the electric company has an easement, it appears as if there would still
be room to move the building, and its associated parking lot, closer to North Westfield
Street without infringing on that easement. This would allow for even more of a wooded
buffer than is currently being proposed so as to preserve, as best ae can, the tranquility of
Parkedge Drive. Four years ago, when we were looking for a larger home, we couldn't
find anything in Agawam or Southwick to compare to the wooded beauty and serenity of
Parkedge Drive. So we invested in that street and, in doing so, invested in the Town of
Agawam, by adding a second floor to our existing ranch. It is so ironic that, four years
after doing so, that very serenity is in jeopardy. It is such a shame.
During the meeting, objections were raised as to the actual location of the shed. We also
would like to see its location moved to the North Westfield Street side of the building.
There is no reason why that structure needs to be in our backyards. Also, hemlocks or
other obscuring trees were proposed for the driveway to cut down on headlights shining
into neighboring homes. We would like to propose those same type of obscuring trees
for the two sides of the parking lot as headlights will shine into homes on that side of
Parkedge Drive as well. We also wish to reiterate that the back and sides of the building
be as visually appealing as the front side seeing as how there are neighboring properties
on all sides of the church.
In closing, our hope is that this project will never get off the ground due to the safety
issues. However, if it does, we are counting on the Planning Board to make this building
as unobtrusive as possible in our beautiful neighborhood. We don't believe that it was
ever the intention of the Zoning Board to allow a church to build in the middle of a quiet
neighborhood. But now it is possible that it will happen because of lax controls regarding
churches. Again, we urge you to bring this issue before the designating authorities to
change the zoning for churches so that this can never happen to other residentsof
Agawam.
Respectfully Sub
David J. Goggin
Mar a M. Nicklaw
Robert J. Carey
77 PARKEDGE DRIVE
FEEDING HILLS
MA.01030
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congestion.
Now, let's discuss safety in regards to the proposed site. Parkedge
drive is situated on one of Feeding Hills most dangerous curves. I
am frightened for our neighborhood children now and the town
wants to add more traffic?The road is already a hazard and now
we want to add more fear? Parkedge drive is so dangerous to get
out of now; it's hard enough to blend in 45mph traffic without
spinning your tires. This building would create more chaos and
traffic problems that already exist. I am concerned with this
proposal and am totally against it The town has enough issues
already with 6000 gas stations, 6000 car lots, and enough farmland
to feed 2 families.
Please,for the safety of the citizens of our neighborhood and fellow
travelers do not allow this to go through. WHY LOOK FOR
MORE TROUBLE, LEAVE WELL ENOUGHALONEI
Thank you or your consideration.
Rob a NOY 2 3 2004 "
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Robert J. Carey
77 PAR KEDGE DRIVE
FEEDING HILLS
MA.01030
UI►US E'o
November 21,2004
Dear Friend;
I am writing this letter in regards to a proposed building site that
will be affecting our neighborhood I would like to begin by stating
that my wife and I have been lifelong residents of this town and
are very disappointed with the ongoing developments. Agawam
once represented farmland and now represents factories and
pollution. The construction of new homes around this section has
already created traffic problems. This church would only add to the
congestion.
Now, let's discuss safety in regards to the proposed site. Parkedge
drive is situated on one of Feeding Hills most dangerous curves. I
am frightened for our neighborhood children now and the town
wants to add more traffic?The road is already a hazard and now
we want to add more fear? Parkedge drive is so dangerous to get
out of now; it's hard enough to blend in 45mph traffic without
spinning your tires. This building would create more chaos and
traffic problems that already exist. I am concerned with this
proposal and am totally against it. The town has enough issues
already with 6000gas stations, 6000 car lots, and enough farmland
to feed 2 families.
Please,for the safety of the citizens of our neighborhood and fellow
travelers do not allow this to go through. WHY LOOK FOR
MORE TROUBLE, LEAVE WELL ENOUGHALONEI
Thank you or your consideration.
Sinc eIl
.s
Rob a NOY 2 3 2004
LA JA-u b u r�U
FA AGAUVAM FIRE DEPARTMENT
9 800 MAIN STREET * AGAWAM, MA 01001 t NT
TELEPHONE (413) 786-0657
'f FAY (41.3) 786-1.241
David A. Pisano Chief of Department
D Stephen M. Martin Deputy Chief FIRES
11/24/04
RE: NEW KINGDOM HALL @ 989 NORTH WESTFIELD ST.
FEEDING HILLS
As per. 780, 527,and 521 C.M.R.s and 148 M.G.L. and N.F.P.A. 72,this building shall have a
fire alarm system. Please note that a fire hydrant must be located with in(100) ft. Of this building
also. The alarm wiring must be MC or in CONDUIT where it is not otherwise protected.
Complete Narratives and Drawings shall be submitted along with a copy of the alarm installers
license before work is to begin. Also be advised that paved access to this structures is required.
General access during construction must be maintained including but not limited to, snow removal
and road surface maintained. (Ruts, wash-outs, or obstructions, which may impede Fire or EMS
response must be corrected at once.)
Fire Insp. M.M/ercadante
s.
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36 Main Street Agawam, Massachusetts 01001-1837
Tel. 413-786-0400 Fax 413-786-9927
MEMO
T0: Engineering Dept., Police Dept., ZDept.
FROM: Planning Board
SUBJECT: Site Plan - W.S. Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses -North Westfield St.
DATE: October 25, 2004
Please review and comment on the attached Site Plan for the West Springfield Congregation of
Jehovah's Witnesses prior to the Board's November 18, 2004 meeting.'
Thank you.
DSD:pre
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r� AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD
Form D
Application for Site Plan Approval
Please complete the following form and return it and 10 copies of the Site Plan to:
Agawam Building Department
36 Main Street
Agawam, MA 01001
1. Name of Business West Springfield Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses_
Address_ P.O. Box 713 Southwick, MA 01077
Telephone (413) 746-8334 Fax
2. Name of Applicant/Owner West Springfield Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses
Address P.O. Box 713 Southwick MA_ 01077
Telephone (at 3)_ 74n-s.n4 Fax
3. Name of Engineer/Architect Ecotec Environmental Associates, Inc.
Address 180 Denslow Road - P.O. Box 188 East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Telephone. (413) 525-6703 Fax (413) 525-3582
4. Please give a brief description of the proposed project: The West Springfield Congregation of
Jehovah Is Witnesses is proposing to construct a 5200 square foot worship center to be
located at 989 North Westfield Street. The worship center will be located to the rear of
a 4.39 acre parcel of land which is currently vacant. The site will be accessed from a single
driveway on North Westfield Street approximately five hundred feet in length. The site will
provide 94 parking spaces on the site. All utilities will enter the site from North Westfield
Street.
Revised 8/14/03 OCT
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A AGAWAM FIRE DEPARTMENT „FN
800 MAIN STREET ',!, AGAWAM, MA 01001 Q
:1' T :IJEP3�Oi�L ("; i) 786-0657
FAX (413) 786.4 241
David A.. '°°-afro Chief of Department
Stephen M. Martin Deputy Chief F1RE5
ATED •
11/24/04
RE:NEW KINGDOM HALL @ 989 NORTH WESTFIELD ST.
FEEDING HILLS
As per. 780, 527, and 521 C.M.R.s and 148 M.G.L. and N.F.P.A. 72, this building shall have a
fire alarm system. Please note that afire hydrant must be located with in(100) ft. Of this building
also. The alarm wiring must be MC or in CONDUIT where it is not otherwise protected.
Complete Narratives and Drawings shall be submitted along with a copy of the alarm installers
license before work is to begin. Also be advised that paved access to this structures is required.
General access during construction must be maintained including but not limited to, snow removal
and road surface maintained. (Ruts, wash-Puts, or obstructions, which may impede Fire or EMS
response must be corrected at once.)
Fire Insp. M.Mercadante
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CIVIL
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ECOTEC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSOCIATES INC.
180 DENSLOW ROAD
P.O. BOX 188
EAST LONGMEADOW, MA 01028
PHONE (413) 525-6703 FAX (413) 525-3582
0
To: Town Of Agawam
From: Charles and Stacey Reutt
21 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills Ma.
This letter is in regards to the proposed development of land off North Westfield
Street in the May Hollow area.
We are strongly opposed to the large building and parking lot planned next to
Parkedge Drive. The traffic on North-Westfield Street is already heavy and very fast
moving. The May Hollow section's serpentine road causes numerous accidents every
year. Automobile body parts often litter the roadside from accidents ranging from minor
fender benders to very serious bodily injury wrecks.
The driveway for this development is going to greatly impact the safety of motor
traffic on North-Westfield Street, with its entrance-and exit on the blind side of the crest
of the Hollow. This creates a situation where traffic has to make an instant stop as they go C
over the crest of the hill, difficult to do in good weather, impossible in rain or snow.
Another concern that we have is light pollution from high power parking lot lights, left on
all night, every night.
The character and essence of our cul de sac neighborhood will also be compromised
and forever changed with an abutter's large parking lot and building. We have a genuine
concern for our property values and quality of life experience. Please do not place this
type of development in our neighborhood.
Charles Reutt Stacey Reutt
0 0 I
Members of Agawam Zoning Board, Neighbors and Friends:
I am Gerald Fedora of 20 Parkedge Drive, and I am speaking tonight against approval of
this proposal to allow construction of a church on the site under discussion. My wife
Christina and I selected our home precisely because of its location in this quiet, private,
residential neighborhood of single family homes with good-sized wooded yards and a
decidedly rural atmosphere.
The proposed church site itself abuts the property at 20 Parkedge drive at the southwest
corner, and the access right of way abuts the entire western side to the northwest corner.
Any church is an entity which, by its nature, operates very much like a business; and
regardless of whether it is for profit or not for profit, and however pure its motives. The
facility is utilized at any hour from early morning to late at night for a host of religious and
secular activities, with lots of people and music, lots of cars and exhaust, lots of lights and
noise, lots of dust and disturbance. Every weekend and holiday would be heavily booked.
The facility's security would "require" harsh, brilliant lighting from dawn to dusk, and
video cameras 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Winters would require snowplows at 3
am, summers the endless drone and clatter of grounds and building maintenance. All this
would be in direct sight of my back yard, and anything I might wish to do would be in
direct sight of everyone at the church, constituting a total end to privacy. The wild
creatures would disappear forever. And, like any political, business, or religious entity, the
organization would feel a need to remodel, improve, enlarge, expand, grow.
Property owners, myself included, would find the monetary value of their property
devastated, because these are homes which derive their value from the unique tranquil and
private, country character of the neighborhood.
For my family and I, there would never be another private backyard family picnic, or
another relaxing weekend, or another quiet and peaceful holiday, another bird feeder filled
with creatures, or another dark, quiet, starry night.
It is impossible to overstate the negative impact approval of this proposal would have upon
Parkedge Drive and Marlene Drive. It would completely destroy the character of this
quiet, private, and peaceful neighborhood forever. It is hard to imagine a less suitable use
for this site, and I am against approval of this proposal.
Gerald M. Fedora
20 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills, MA. 01030
Memo
To: Planning Board
From: Sgt. Donald Gallerani
Subject: Site Plan - W.S. Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses - North Westfield Street
Date: November 17, 2004
I am in receipt of the West Springfield Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses' proposal to
construct a 5,200 square foot worship center at 989 North Westfield Street.
However, prior to the submission of my"site inspection", I would like to view the traffic study
that is being conducted for this proposed worship center.
AGAWAM TOWN OF
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INTEROFFICE0
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MEMORANDUM
To: Planning Board
CC: File; John P. Stone, DPW Supt.;
From: Engineering
Date: November 16, 2004
Subject: Site Plan -450 - W.S. Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses - North Westfield St.
Per your request dated, October 25, 2004, we have reviewed the site plan entitled "Kingdom Hall Site -
989 North Westfield Street, Feeding Hills, MA; Prepared by: Ecotec Environmental Associates Inc.;
Scale: V = 30; Dated: Sept. 2004", and we have the following comments:
There are still several outstanding issues to be addressed for this site plan. At this time, we are still
waiting on the submission of a traffic study, a drainage report, and various water/sewer service
construction details by Ecotec. The Planning Board will be notified as soon as our review is complete.
ry S
If you have any questions, please contact our division.
fncerely, Sincerely,',
/t.A'` � ~
` eorgano J. Ho , P.E. Adam S. Chase, E.I.T.
Town Engineer Civil Engineer I
HAENGWEERW\450 W.S.Congregation102 planning.wpd
AGAWAM OFFICE OF PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
SITE PLAN REVIEW
REVIEWER: D. Dachos DATE: November 16, 2004
DATE RECEIVED: October 22, 2004 DISTRIBUTION DATE: October 25, 2004
PLANNING BOARD MEETING DATE: November 18, 2004
APPLICANT INFORMATION
1. Name of Business: West Springfield Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses
Address: P.O. Box 713, Southwick, MA 01077
2. Owner: Same as above
Address: Same as above
Telephone: (413) 746-8334 Fax:
3. Engineer: Ecotec Environmental Associates, Inc.
Address: 180 Denslow Road, P.O. Box 188, East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Telephone: (413) 525-6703 Fax: 525-3582
PLAN REVIEW
Scale: 1" = 30' Date: September 2004
Title Block (Street Address, Applicant's Name, Address, Scale, Name of Preparer of
Plan): Plans have not been stamped by an Engineer.
Description of Project: Proposed construction of a 5200 sq. ft. worship center on 4.39
acres of land.
Site Plan Review
Page 2
Description of Site: The site is vacant, slopes to the west with the highest point adjacent
to North Westfield Street. There is a 100' wide WMECO easement which runs along the
eastern boundary of the property.
Provision for Traffic Flow: A proposed curbcut with its associated driveway is shown on
to North Westfield Street. The driveway exits the property on the downward slope to
May Hollow. The safety of vehicles entering and exiting this site is questionable. The
applicant must provide a site distance study prepared by a qualified traffic engineer.
There is a 12' right of way over which the driveway must cross. What is the purpose of
this R.O.W. ?
Parking: The plan shows 94 parking spaces including 3 handicapped. The parking
guidelines require that 1 parking space be provided for each 4 persons for whom seating
is provided in the main auditorium. The auditorium will seat 170 people, so parking
appears to be adequate.
Drainage: See Engineering comments.
Public Utilities: See Engineering comments.
Landscaping/Screening and Buffers: No landscape plan has been provided. When
submitted it must contain the following note: "All plantings must be maintained and that
portion of the public way abutting the parcel and including the treebelt shall be
maintained in a safe and attractive condition by the owner of the parcel". It is
recommended that a landscaped buffer be maintained between the proposed use and the
residential properties. If there is not adequate existing vegetation to provide an opaque
screen, the applicant should consider a fence and/or living screen.
Sign Location : Not provided.
Exterior Lighting: Not provided. A lighting plan must be submitted. Cut sheets for the
light proposed must also be provided. The exterior lighting must be positioned so as not
to shine on adjacent properties.
Rendering or Elevations: Colors and textures must be provided.
Dumpster Location: Not provided. All dumpters must be fenced, screened and gated.
Other Comments or Concerns: The safety of those who worship at the site and those
traveling on North Westfield Street is critical given the location of the curb cut. The
Planning Board should take no action on this plan until a traffic study, funded by the
Site Plan Review
Page 3
applicant and review and approved by the Engineering Department has been completed.
The plan should be returned to the applicant until such a study has been submitted in
conformance with § 180-13 C (4) of the Zoning Ordinance.
Note: Chapter 40A of the Massachusetts General Laws exempts religious uses from
zoning requirements. Chapter 40A does allow the Towns to impose "reasonable
regulations concerning the bulk and height of structures and determining yard sizes, lot
area, setbacks, open space, parking and building coverage requirements."
November 14, 2004
Dear Town of Agawam Planning Board,
Our home is at 193 Parkedge Drive in Feeding Hills. Our lot is adjacent to
land under consideration for sale for the proposed construction of a
Jehovah's Witness' Kingdom Hall with parking for 94 vehicles.
We have concerns regarding the pending sale of the land behind our home
for this purpose.
Our primary concern is for the safety of motorists on North Westfield Street
and those attempting to enter or exit Parkedge Drive. We sincerely believe
that giving approval to any plan that would increase traffic in an already
dangerous area would be absurd. Is the Town of Agawam willing to
accept the liability for the first fatal accident that will occur at the new curb
cut?
• There is extremely poor visibility at the proposed curb cut on North
Westfield Street (Route 187). The driveway would be just below the
crest of a hill and on a curve.
• Motorists waiting to enter Parkedge Drive from the south on 187 with
increased traffic passing from the north would have a greater chance
of being hit from behind. Traffic traveling at the 40 MPH speed limit
comes down the hill from the south and around the curve approaching
Parkedge.
• Ice and snow exacerbate the already dangerous conditions in this area.
When one car gets stuck because it has to stop, quite often the road
becomes blocked with cars. Snow banks further reduce visibility.
We also feel that the site is not appropriate because it abuts quiet residential
neighborhoods of single family homes. Obviously, since the proposed plan
places a large building directly behind our home we have several serious
concerns. y• Privacy Our family should be able to oise dui: backy4
ard
1
without 170 people looking on.
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• Noise— We do not wish to hear 94 vehicles coming and going, or 170
voices raised.
• Aesthetics — There are several churches in town with homes near
them. Most of the time the closest home is for the clergy. Our
neighborhood is a beautiful wooded area; such a large building would
spoil the character of the neighborhood.
• Lights —Parking for 94 vehicles would require lighting that would be
intrusive.
• Safety — On nights when the meeting hall is unattended, it is possible
that the parking lot could become a place for people to loiter. We
have seen evidence during walks in nearby Robinson State Park that
people gather there to drink alcohol. The Kingdom Hall lot could be
an attractive nuisance.
Another issue is the grading of the land. The land located between Parkedge
Drive and Marlene Drive is at a higher elevation than the abutting lots on
Parkedge. The land slopes toward our homes. Currently run-off is not a
serious issue because the underbrush and leaves from the woods keep the
moisture from rainfall and snow melt on the high ground. If the woods were
to be removed, we believe there would be a problem with water in our
basement.
We appreciate your attention to this matter of great importance to us and to
all motorists on Route 187. Thank you very much.
Respectfully,
C
P P. and Gay M. McDyer
193 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
789-2750
Cc Mayor Richard Cohen
Mass. District 2 Highway Director: Albert Stegemann
2 of 2
s •
November 14, 2004
Dear Town of Agawam Planning Board,
Our home is at 201 Parkedge Drive and adjacent to land under consideration
for sale for proposed construction of Jehovah's Witness' Kingdom Hall and
parking lot.
Concerns:
1. Building would change charm and character of our single family
residential neighborhood.
2. Parking and lighting would be intrusive to privacy of our backyard.
3. Grading and buffer zone would have to be addressed as land is higher
and slopes toward Parkedge Drive.
4. Unattended nights could be potential loiter area.
5. Route 1871 May Hollow entrance -- exit would add to already
dangerous road section.
We feel this site is not appropriate for this building proposal.
Sincerely,
Louis V. and Donna J. Scherpa
201 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills, MA. 01030
786-2493f:
` NOV 1 5 2004
November 14, 2004
To The Town of Agawam Planning Board:
We are writing with regard to the recently proposed church being built on the land
located between Marlene Drive, Parkedge Drive and Northwestfield Street, in Feeding
Hills. My opposition to this proposal is having a 94 space parking lot at that location
brings up a concern of possible accidents that could occur with the amount of traffic and
speed of trucks and cars traveling on Northwestfield Street. In addition to the speed
traveled on this road, there is also a blind hill and as cars are lined up waiting to get into
the parking lot, there is a concern that a truck coming south going north could plow into
the vehicles stopped waiting to turn into the parking lot. Therefore, it is difficult to
envision how safe an entrance off Northwestfield Street could be.
Additionally, this land abuts people's backyards. The property will cause water run offs,
head lights shining in people's homes and continuous street lamps that will be lit
throughout the nights. We believe the planned parking lot is too big for a residential area.
Any building of that size is not fair to the neighbors as they bought their homes to live in
a residential area. This could also decrease the value of our homes.
We believe this proposal is an inappropriate use of this land.
Sincerely, ,
Merritt and Donna Hopping
182 Parkedge Drive
786-1741
- r77i1
K�V 1 5 94
November 14, 2004
Dear Town of Agawam Planning Board,
I live at 183 Parkedge Drive in Feeding Hills, and directly behind the proposed site for
the Jehovah's Witness Kingdom Hall and parking lot. I am concerned about this building
proposal for several reasons, most importantly from a safety standpoint.
The proposed location of the driveway would be in an already dangerous stretch of
Route 187. 1 can say this from personal experience, having been involved in a head-on
collision there three years ago. The combination of the curve and the hill make it a
difficult area to travel. Speed, weather conditions, and lack of visibility contribute to the
problem. The hill coming in and out of Parkedge is hard enough to maneuver in bad
weather without adding stopped traffic on the top of the hill on North Westfield Street.
Any parent that's waited for their child's school bus can tell multiple stories about cars
coming to a screeching halt because they cannot see the bus stopped there—and that's
just one vehicle. Ninety-four cars stopping to turn in that spot would be insanely
treacherous. It's simply too dangerous of an area. I dread traveling that hill and curve in
adverse weather conditions so much that I considered moving. But I remained because
I love my home and the privacy of the lot I'm on. Which is my next concern.
The woods behind my house provide my family and myself with privacy and the peaceful
enjoyment of nature. The traffic coming and going, the noise of people and vehicles,
and the lighting for the parking lot would invade upon the quiet enjoyment of my property
and diminish my resale value if I ever chose to sell my home. Also, my young children
play in my backyard. I would feel uneasy allowing them to play in a backyard that abuts
a parking lot providing access and an easy departure for any vehicle. I should not have
to build a wall around my property to maintain a sense of privacy and security. I would
not have bought this home to raise my children in if it had a parking lot in the back yard.
There are other issues with this site proposal including water run-off, noise, and the
spoiling of the attributes of this neighborhood. My largest concern, however, is for
safety: the safety of my children on my property and the safety of the road that I need to
drive on everyday. To provide a place for potential loitering in the middle of a residential
area and to add further obstacles to North Westfield Street in that location is unwise and
benefits no one except the seller of the land. The proposal does not contribute one
positive thing for this neighborhood.
I appreciate your time and attention in coming to a logical solution in this matter.
ely, Casa ;
-Od
183 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills, MA 01030 �dy
f'f
November 15, 2004
To the Town of Agawam Planning Board;
Re: Building Plan submitted by Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall for property located on
North Westfield Street, bordered by Parkedge Drive and Marlene Drive.
Safety Issue: The entrance/exit for the building will be on North Westfield Street(RI.
#187), a heavily traveled roadway. Cars, school buses, commercial and private trucks
and tractor trailer trucks travel this road daily, usually at speeds above the 40 m.p.h.
posted limit. The proposed entrance/exit is to be located just below the crest of the north
hill of May Hollow and above Parkedge Drive. The entrance to Parkedge Drive is
already a hazardous location and has been the site of numerous traffic accidents in the
past, due to limited visibility of North Westfield Street both north and south. May
Hollow is a dangerous part of North Westfield Street
Safety Issue: At night, the long driveway and vacant parking lot will create additional
concerns regarding personal safety and potential vandalism by those who wish to use this
secluded area to party_
Safety Issue: In the event of a fire, the surrounding homes will be affected.
Use of Property: Churches are a part of the American way of life and freedom of
religion is protected by our Constitution. However, the placement of this type of facility,
in this remote location that is within a quiet& peaceful residential neighborhood of
single-family homes, is not appropriate.
If this plan is approved, we request that the appropriate visual & sound barriers, be
erected to maintain the current level of privacy for the adjacent homes. These barriers
should be placed along all of the property boundaries with homes.
Respectfully Submitted:
Q!\c-1-.1k 1�', . ate
Tip • t�;��+ ,
44 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills
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Gl�
Y
November 12, 2004
To Whom It May Concern:
In referance to the Building Plan to construct a
Church on land located between Marlene Drive, Parkedge Drive and
North Westfield Street, I do have concerns about this.
1. I live at 33 Parkedge Drive and the reason we
bought our house there years ago was it was quiet, residential
area, and had an adequate amount of privacy.
2. If we wanted to live next to a Church we would have
bought a house next to a Church.
3. The traffic on North Westfield Street is heavy
enough, making it difficult to get in and out of Parkedge Drive
at the present time, Adding to this existing traffic would make
the problem even more difficult.
4. I am not in favor of this project and never will be.
Sincerely yours,
9�O� -)X h2e,qrLjl,
Jean M. DeForge
' 33 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills, Ma. 01030
t °::L'N.i�4
i •
November 14, 2004
Dear Town of Agawam Planning Board,
Our home is at 201 Parkedge Drive and adjacent to land under consideration
for sale for proposed construction of Jehovah's Witness' Kingdom Hall and
parking lot.
Concerns:
1. Building would change charm and character of our single family
residential neighborhood.
2. Parking and lighting would be intrusive to privacy of our backyard.
3. Grading and buffer zone would have to be addressed as land is higher
and slopes toward Parkedge Drive.
4. Unattended nights could be potential loiter area.
5. Route 187 / May Hollow entrance — exit would add to already
dangerous road section.
We feel this site is not appropriate for this building proposal.
Sincerely,
Louis V. and Donna J. Scherpa
201 Parkedge Drive
Feeding Hills, MA. 01030
786-2493 �:
ram. 1�L
o�� 9 Town of Agawam
36 Main Street Agawam, Massachusetts 01001-1837
yc�
u Tel. 413-786-0400 Fax 413-786-9927
MEMO
TO: Engineering Dept., Police Dept., Fire Dept.
FROM: Planning Board
SUBJECT: Site Plan - W.S. Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses -North Westfield St.
DATE: October 25, 2004
Please review and comment on the attached Site Plan for the West Springfield Congregation of
Jehovah's Witnesses prior to the Board's November 18, 2004 meeting.
Thank you.
DSD:pre
AGAWAM PLANNING BOARD
Form D
Application for Site Plan Approval
Please complete the following form and return it and 10 copies of the Site Plan to:
Agawam Building Department
36 Main Street
Agawam,MA 01001
1. Name of Business West Spri gfiald Dongregation of Jehovah's Witnesses
Address P.D. Box 713, Southwick, MA 01077
Telephone (413) 746-8334� Fax
2. Name of Applicant/Owner West Springfield Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses
Address P.O. Box 713, Southwick, MA 01077
Telephone [al3) vaF-R3na _ _ _ . Fax
3. Name of Engineer/Architect Ecotec Environmental Associates, Inc.
Address 180 Denslow Road - P.O. Box 188 East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Telephone (413)_525-6703 Fax (413) 525-3582
4. Please give a brief description of the proposed project: The West Springfield Congregation of
Jehovah's Witnesses is proposing to construct a 5200 square foot worship center to be
located at 989 North Westfield Street. The worship center will be located to the rear of
a 4.39 acre parcel of land which is currently vacant. The site will be accessed from a single
driveway on North Westfield Street approximately five hundred feet in length. The site will
provide 94 parking spaces on the site. All utilities will enter the site from North Westfield
Street.
rn
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Revised 8/14/03
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BOX lD II
DOCUMENTIt
PAGE#
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DEANA M. CASAMENTO
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21 218.37 \ / I BK. 5435 PG. 416
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JOSEPH P. MCDYER Z \\ I \ \\ `\ N FD.
BK. 5226 PG. 309mn
PARCEL 2
191 ,096 s.f. I / / \\ \\ JOANNE M. COLLINS I 0 II
vv 4.3870 AC. I / // \ BK. 13061 PG, 167 I t
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L'- p BK. 11325 PG. 484
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LOUIS V. SHERPA JR.
BK. 5623 PG. 405 11 I I ,/ / I / I - - - - t I NOTES:
oI
I / I // LP IFD. — — — _ — r I I I 1.) FOR TITLE INTEREST TO THE PARCELS SEE HAMPDEN
TV / COUNTY REGISTRY OF DEEDS BOOK ?????, PAGE ???.
2.) TOTAL PARCEL CONTAINS 191,096 s.f. OR 4.3870 Ac.
\\ I I I / / �, I, I I 3.) PARCEL IS ZONED RESIDENCE A-2.
\ I / / j6 I I l I_ t I 4.) EXISTING TOPOGRAPHY IS COMPILED FROM A PLAN PREPARED
PARCEL 1 — BY ANDERSON ASSOCIATES ENTITLED "PLAN OF PROPERTY
I.P. FD. \\ ` \ 1 I� / 15,040 s.f. �r{ �, t I \ �i IN FEEDING HILLS, MA PREPARED FOR ERNIE SCHAEDLIC
991 NORTH 40' LD STREET FEEDING ILLS, MA;
DATED DECEMBER, 2003.
r
`I.P. FD P FD.2�46.24' �' I \\ ' 1 � I // I.P. SET ( N 51'33'21 " E � � / { � 14 d err � \
\ S 52-25'29" W / /
N/F �\ - - - - _ 2fl6:90- - 1�
RICHARD N. CLARK Q \ I (� l T.P
BK. 3705 PG. 171
\ Mo
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FRANK R. MALEK I J 1af ,jII i
BK. 9571 PG. 438 Z I Iy.I. I i
I I 11-` 1III! I �
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I . FD. I \ I.P. FD.
I N/F I \ N/F
GERALD M. t UORA ROMAN KAZIMIERCZAK I I SITE DEVELOPMENT PLANS
BK. 11263 PG. 135 BK. 11-287 PG. 517 1 j I f:
EXISTING TOPOGRAPHY
NEW KINGDOM HALL SITE
! ! 989 NORTH WESTFIELD STREET
II l FEEDING HILLS AGAWAM MASS .
FOR
�If WEST SPRINGFIELD CONGREGATION
l 11 lye I I OF JEHOVAH 'S WITNESSES
ECOTEC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSOCIATES, INC.
GRAPHIC SCALE I / / I i I CIVIL ENGINEERING • LAND SURVEYS
30 0 15 30 W 120 180 Denslow Road • P.O. Box 188 • East Longmeadow, MA 01028
P. 413 • 525 • 6703 F. 413 • 525 - 3582 E. ecotec@inetmail.att.net
SCALE: 1" = 30' DATE. Sept., 2004
( IN FEET )
t inch = 30 tG SHEET 2 0 F 5 DESIGN BY: J.M. DRAWN BY: J.M. CHECKED BY: G.W.
SURVEY BOOKS PROJECT NUMBER: 04-053