“Hartwell Farms” Bedford, MA

A unique challenge, VincCo Properties turned to Brown & Brown to permit the reuse of an industrial building and concurrent development of the adjacent, abandoned parking lot as residential housing. Permits were sought under the Town’s Industrial Mixed Use Overlay District, however a potential tenant proposed light manufacturing, a use not allowed under the IMU bylaw. After an initial failed attempt to add light manufacturing to the IMU, the project was split in two, with the Industrial building retaining its original Industrial zoning to allow the light manufacturing tenant. Brown & Brown drafted a new Zoning Bylaw (Residence D) allowing multiple dwelling units and potential retail on the site in conjunction with significant public benefits via contract zoning. Bolstered by strong marketing and public relations efforts, the new zone was approved and the project ultimately received Planning Board and Conservation Commission permits.

As approved, Hartwell Farms will offer 80 dwelling units, comprised of 44 townhouses and two, larger 3-story buildings. The project boasts significant site renewal, transforming the 6.8 acre parking lot areas of landscaping, building and a significant constructed wetland. After an appeal of the original Conservation Order of Conditions (OOC) related to long-term monitoring, negotiations with the Commission mediated by the Department of Environmental Protection allowed for an amended local OOC in lieu of a superseding Order from the state.  Project benefits include gains in flood storage, new wetlands and habitat area, off-site sidewalk connection to the Town-owned rail trail, water and sewer line improvements.  

As additional benefit to the Town, an existing ball field on site will be upgraded and deeded to the Town. VinCo will construct a storage shed for the local Babe Ruth League and provide ancillary parking. In all, this transformation from a vacant parking lot to vibrant neighborhood will provide great benefit to the Town of Bedford.

Permits Obtained:

Planning Board Special Permit for Residence D

Conservation Order of Conditions

Board of Selectman Aquifer Permit

Town of Bedford Contract Zoning

Project Team:

Engineer: VHB, Inc.

Architect: O’Sullivan Architects, Inc.

Geotechnical: Sanborn Head & Associates, Inc.

Marketing: Schneider Associates