Bill > H4483

This bill authorizes the release or exclusion of a specific portion (approximately 15,977 square feet) of land from an existing conservation restriction in Deerfield, Massachusetts, to facilitate the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's rehabilitation of Upper Road over the Deerfield River. As mitigation for removing this land from conservation protection, the town of Deerfield must convey two key parcels to the Commonwealth: first, a conservation restriction on approximately 5.5 acres along the Deerfield River, and second, an access easement to enable the Department of Conservation and Recreation to reach that land. The bill requires an independent professional appraisal to ensure that the value of the land being conveyed is at least equivalent to the land being released from conservation restrictions, with the town required to compensate the Commonwealth at 110% if the values do not match. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation will cover all costs associated with the land transfer, and the existing conservation restriction will remain in full effect except for the specifically released portion. The bill aims to balance infrastructure needs with conservation goals by providing replacement conservation land and maintaining overall protected land area.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4483