An inn that burned down at the site may have left contaminants

By Lindsey Pizzica Rotolo

An expected hearing in May to present the public with details of a new Emergency Medical Services building has been delayed pending results of a soil test.

The proposed building lot, on the corner of Route 44 and Shepard Road, is the former site of the long vacant Norfolk Inn, which was burned down by order of the Selectmen in 1968. A soil test is routinely required by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), to ensure that there are no contaminants at the site. Data is also being sought on how well the soil is compacted. This is needed before a new foundation can be laid.

The building committee hopes to have the results of the soil test and DEP’s approval in time for a public hearing in late May or early June. The meeting will follow a question and answer format to allow residents the opportunity to learn more about the project, including financing. Two weeks later, a special town meeting is likely to be scheduled to vote on whether to proceed.

The building committee approved the building’s final design by architect Robert Lamson on April 12. “I’ve designed the building to look more like a residence than a commercial structure,” he said. “I think it’s important to preserve the town’s character.”

Susanne Funchion, who represents the Lions Club and serves as the committee’s secretary, called for adding a second bay to the garage. “We should keep in mind the need for extra vehicles in the future,” she urged.

Lamson assured the committee that if the need arose, his design could easily accommodate constructing a second bay. After much discussion, the committee decided to accept Lamson’s original plans, which includes one bay, 17 parking spaces and ample green space.