Duncan Wilkie, Transportation Archeologist, explained that he has met with the VT Division of Historic Preservation (DHP) and FHWA to discuss the intentional burial of portions of the Fort Vengeance Monument Site. These agencies gave their approval of this concept. DHP did not favor locating a pull-off area within the site boundaries, however, DHP would not object to a pull-off located northerly of the site.

Duncan also noted that he has coordinated with the owner of the properties that the site is located on. The site occupies the majority of one parcel and a portion of another parcel -- both owned by William and Beverly Taranovich. Duncan explained that the Taranoviches are willing to consider selling all or portions of their properties to allow VTrans to build a pull-off, relocate the monument and satisfy other Section 106 requirements. Duncan pointed out that any such property transfers would need to be done as "early acquisitions." Another requirement the owners have is to retain access to any remainders of their affected properties.

CLD received direction from VTrans and the Steering Committee to work with the Taranoviches, and the Pittsford Historical Society to develop a plan for a pull-off area that meets the following requirements:

The Committee agreed that it does not need to see or approve the plan as long as the requirements listed above are met.

Cynthia May presented the conceptual landscape plans that she has developed for the Brandon Village Greens. The plans were developed through coordination and field visits with Scott Newman, VTrans Historic Preservation Coordinator. The main objectives of the plans are to maintain and enhance the economic viability of the downtown areas by making attractive enhancements to the Greens, preserving the historic character of the Village core and expanding and improving the existing sidewalk network. Significant features such as the gazebo, fountains, marble slabs, light fixtures, etc., were noted during the field visit. These features will be identified on the project plans. When such features are to be impacted, they will be incorporated into the proposed improvements where possible. Final disposition of significant features will be noted on the project plans.

Mike Balch commented that Village residents might object to US Route 7 crosswalk surface treatments that are not smooth. He explained that residents complain about the noise and vibration created when trucks (especially when empty) travel the existing roadway. He stated the noise and vibration are generated by the cracks in the pavement at the seams in the concrete roadway slabs that are under the current roadway surface. It was pointed out that the project would remove the concrete slabs and reconstruct the roadway with proper base materials. It is not anticipated that the proposed sidewalk treatments could cause noise or vibration levels that the existing roadway does. Mike did not dispute this but wanted the Committee to be aware that Village residents would likely have this concern. Scott Newman indicated that he would look into the matter and see if noise levels associated with various crosswalk treatments have been measured.

It was noted that the bank located at the northerly end of Brandon Center Green has expressed the desire to retain their handicapped parking space. The space would be impacted by the current proposal. It was decided to relocate the handicapped space to the closest space available on the current parking lot configuration.

The Chamber of Commerce building was shown as being relocated to the northerly end of the Green, just south of the bus stop. Nancy Leary expressed her approval of relocating rather than demolishing the structure and noted that many residents had contributed to its construction. Nancy indicated that she would check with Chamber representatives to see if they approve of the new building location.

The Steering Committee had no concerns with the Crescent Park plan as presented. This plan showed a reduction in the paved area (to be flush granite cobbles), enabling an expansion of the green space.

Dan Peterson asked Scott Newman whether the landscape plans were sufficient to move ahead to the Section 502 Hearings. Scott indicated that the plans were sufficient to be used at the Hearings and noted that modifications could still be made. Further modifications may also be made as a result of testimony at the Hearing.