Residents Speak Out on Petersen Pool Project

BRAINTREE, MA - Residents interested in the Petersen Pool project had a chance to speak out and ask questions to the developer and town officials during a well-attended community forum Wednesday night.

While support for the project seemed evident, with many in attendance accompanied by kids in blue and white youth hockey jerseys, residents did have some questions and concerns about the proposal, ranging from traffic to the construction schedule.

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In addition to the 25-meter, 10-lane pool, the building will house two hockey rinks and a multi-use turf field with a major league-sized baseball diamond. Overall, 15 sports will be able to use the facility including hockey, swimming, lacrosse, 7-on-7 football, soccer, and baseball.

The building is slated to be constructed at Braintree High School, near the football field. Developer CMX Partners will own the building and the town will retain ownership of the land, according to Mayor Joseph Sullivan.

Braintree residents and sports programs will get discounted rates on ice time and memberships, according to project developer CMX Partners.

One resident asked about a proposed drop off area for handicapped vehicles and buses, which could be abused by parents dropping off their kids. Councilman Charles Kokoros, whose district includes Braintree High School, said the possibility of signage to discourage the practice could be discussed in the planning process.

When asked about the expected increase in traffic, Kokoros said a traffic study has been submitted and is under review. The study will be seen next month when the project goes in front of the Planning Board.

As far as a timeline, Sullivan said he hopes some work can begin in May with construction starting after the end of school, with the foundation completed by the winter. The project could take 12-18 months to complete, with Sullivan aiming for the building to open during fall 2017.

Next up for Petersen Pool is a Zoning Board of Appeals hearing on Feb. 23 and a Planning Board meeting in March.