The most interesting item discussed at last night’s Planning Board session was regarding The Milton Hill House and whether or not it might be included in the Milton Village business zone or possibly its own business zone. This brief and informal discussion among the board, that came at the end of the meeting, was prompted by the fact that Mr. Sullivan who owns the Milton Hill House has purchased an adjoining parcel and what might become of that.

Exploring ways to increase activity in current commercial zones within town is an issue that most residents are in favor of according to the Master Plan survey conducted by the Planning Board. While this was a purely speculative discussion it will no doubt be of keen interest for people who live in the area to see a possible business link between Milton Village and Central Square.

Central Square (junction of Eliot and Central Ave) is undergoing what for Milton can only be considered a Renaissance. The Fallon building has been renovated and now houses Cakes cafe and bakery, Oranamore Construction is building a new mixed use structure at 36 Central Ave and there is a hearing set for 7/22 to review the plans for the old Hendries building. This too will be a mixed use building consisting of condos and commercial space.

Lastly, there are two other developments afoot which are not commercial in nature but which could potentially contribute to the revitalization of the area: the bike path extension from Central Ave out to Mattapan Square that is under consideration by the DCR, however, there are concerns with this (please see post here.) and a redesign of Central Ave being examined by the Dept of Transportation which would also involve a bike path. This one would run up Central Ave to Turner’s Pond. This too has some concerns (please see post here.).

In other business the board:

• discussed the “as of rite zoning” that will be an article in the warrant at the Special Town Meeting. There did not seem to be a consensus of understanding on the part of the entire board that this initiative is part of Milton’s effort to qualify as a Green Community and thereby be eligible for state and federal grant money. There will be a hearing on this August 12.
• Planning Director Bill Clark noted that an RFP had been submitted regarding the Ulin Rink and the town was awaiting a response.
• Mr. Clark also stated an RFP had been put out for installation of solar panels at Town Hall. The hope is that the panels will be installed befor the end of the year.