View from above of Everly
Wakefield, MA – Allen & Major Associates, Inc. (A&M), in partnership with Wood Partners and Cube 3 Studios, completed services for the redevelopment of a former industrial site into a 186 unit, multistory residential apartment development on 5.3 acres just off Exit 42 of 95/Rte./ 128 in Wakefield.
A&M provided site surveying, environmental consulting, civil engineering, and landscape architecture for this development. Substantial wetland resource areas profoundly minimized the development area. In order to meet the client’s vision as well as avoid major impacts to the resource areas and the floodplain, the site was graded to elevate the building area using segmental block retaining walls. This allowed the wetlands, which surrounded the development area, to remain unaltered. While this approach allowed for creative wetland mitigation, it did not allow any room for stormwater detention. The solution was to install a subsurface infiltration system below the ground level of the parking garage.
This dual use of the land allowed the client to achieve the unit density required for a viable project.
The limited development area also restricted snow storage options. The problem was solved by installing a snow melt system below the access driveways to the parking garage.
The combination of unique and innovative site design, coupled with its modern architecture, great location, and inviting landscape features, makes this project a welcome addition to the community of Wakefield.
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Planning an extensive development in close proximity to wetlands posed significant challenges in obtaining environmental permits for this project. Bordering vegetated wetlands along three sides of the project and the presence of rare species habitat on site necessitated the submittal of a Notice of Intent to both the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) and the Wakefield Conservation Commission in order to comply with the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA).
A&M’s thorough understanding of the regulations, as well as cooperation with state and local environmental departments, allowed the execution of a successful and collaborative design between A&M and the development team.
