MV Commission to Hold Public Hearing Tonight

The Martha's Vineyard Commission will hold a public hearing on a draft MVC DRI policy on Site Design and Landscape on Thursday, October 18, at 7:15 p.m. at the Commission offices in the Stone Building, 33 New York Avenue, Oak Bluffs.

This is one of a series of policies prepared to help applicants and members of the public understand how the Martha's Vineyard Commission evaluates proposed Developments of Regional Impact (DRIs). It can also be used by town boards with respect to projects they review. The policy reflects past MVC practice in reviewing subdivisions and development over the past decades.

The proposed Site Design and Landscape Policy seeks to preserve and restore natural habitat and vegetative communities; to preserve and enhance views and vistas; to minimize the environmental and visual impacts of roads, driveways, parking lots, and structures; and to maintain existing topography. The policy has sections on: site layout; roads, driveways, and parking; grading, drainage, and stormwater management; vegetation; fencing and stone walls; lighting; and construction and maintenance.

A copy of the draft policy can be downloaded from the MVC website (search for “site design”) or from the Commission (508-693-3453; info@mvcommission.org). Written comments may be submitted until October 22.