Planning Board approves 11‑lot subdivision at 71 North Billerica; recommends Rivers Edge amendment
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At the May 4, 2026 meeting the Lowell Planning Board approved a Definitive Subdivision and Site Plan for 71 North Billerica Road to create 11 single‑family lots (each approval carried conditions and passed 4–1), continued review of 297 University Avenue to May 18, and issued a positive recommendation to City Council for a Special Permit amendment to add 16 duplex lots at Rivers Edge (165 Nelson Ave / 33–113 Adie Way). The board also discussed the NMCOG 'At‑Home in Greater Lowell' housing strategy.
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Key decisions
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- Approved minutes of April 23, 2026 (vote 4–0).
- Approved Definitive Subdivision for 71 North Billerica Road (split existing lot into 11 lots for new single‑family homes) with nine listed conditions; vote 4–1 (D. Tenczar opposed).
- Approved Site Plan for 71 North Billerica Road with the same nine conditions; vote 4–1 (D. Tenczar opposed).
- Continued Site Plan Review / Special Permit / Variance for 297 University Avenue (conversion of garage to four townhouse units) to the May 18, 2026 meeting (vote 4–0).
- Issued a positive recommendation to the City Council for the Special Permit amendment for the Rivers Edge PRD (165 Nelson Ave and 33–113 Adie Way) to create 16 additional duplex lots, increasing units from 181 to 187; vote 4–0 (G. Frechette recused).
- Discussed the Northern Middlesex Council of Governments (NMCOG) 'At‑Home in Greater Lowell' regional housing strategy and requested further review by the Planning Board.
- Adjourned at 9:36 PM.
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Planning Board Meeting on May 04, 2026
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