Athol seeks community input on future for 100-acre property

By MAX BOWEN

News Editor

Published: 05-19-2023 3:32 PM

ATHOL — For some time, town officials have debated the best use for the Bidwell property.

Next week, residents will have the chance to offer ideas at a forum being held at the Athol Public Library. Taking place on Tuesday, May 23 at 6 p.m., topics such as open space, recreation, historic, residential and commercial uses will be discussed, after which the public will be able to weigh in with their preferences.

“This program provides an opportunity to really engage the community to help guide the future use of this 100-acre parcel for the benefit of the town,” said Town Manager Shaun Suhoski in a statement. “I am hopeful we’ll get some great ideas that will also help feed into a planned community-wide survey.”

Suhoski said the property’s base zoning is rural single-family residential (RC) and part of the town’s Adaptive Reuse Overlay District. According to the bylaw, the town has identified a number of non-residential buildings located within existing residential neighborhoods that may no longer be suitable for the original use. The district adds allowable uses including community centers, dance studios, retail, or restaurants, following approval of a special permit.

Suhoski added that it’s possible a desired outcome might require a zoning change. However, his sense is that the Planning Board’s sentiment is to engage in a plan that follows current zoning.

This forum is also aligned with the ongoing “Smithsonian on Main Street” exhibit now on display in the Carnegie portion of the library. People are encouraged to come to the library early and view the display before joining the community conversation.

The discussion is one of three the town will hold in May related to housing and development. On May 30 at 6 p.m. at the library, there will be a community housing forum on the creation of a housing production plan. On May 31 at 6 p.m., the senior center will host a meeting where updates to the Greening Lord Pond Plaza project will be outlined.

The Bidwell property, located off of South Athol Road, was purchased by the town in 2009. Since then, multiple discussions have been held on what to do with it. Potential uses have included a farmers market, mixed use development, fire station, business park and trails. The town has also explored using part of the land to build a new Route 2 interchange on South Athol Road. Officials have said doing so would encourage economic development, while at the same time easing traffic on the roads leading into Athol.

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“I think in 10 years you’re going to wish that you had it,” said Suhoski at a November 2022 Selectboard meeting.

This 100-acre parcel includes a historic barn structure in need of repair. The former Rabbit Run railroad also runs the front of the property.

Prior registration for the May 23 forum is appreciated and can be done at www.athollibrary.org.

Max Bowen can be reached at mbowen@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 265.

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