Propane tanks approved for Residences at the Park project

ATHOL – The Selectboard has approved plans to store propane tanks to facilitate construction of the Residences at the Park housing project, currently underway at the former Bigelow and Riverbend schools.

Appearing at a public hearing on Nov. 18, Gina Carraro, commercial sales representative for Connecticut-based Superior Plus Propane, told the board, “We’re applying for a permit to store over 2,000 gallons of propane at 124 Allen St. for Aberthaw Construction,” to provide heat for on-site construction at the former schools.

“There will be three tanks,” Carraro explained. “The tanks are not in tandem and they are located pretty far from one another. It is necessary to heat construction during the winter, otherwise the project would come to a halt, and propane is the most environmentally-friendly option and most cost-effective.”

Asked by Bialecki about how long the propane would be stored at the site, Carraro said the tanks will be picked up by the end of June 2026.

Jim Linfield, the real estate project developer for NewVue Communities, told the board that the project remains on schedule.

“This propane will help us remain on track,” he said. “We intend to start moving people in by the end of July, unless something happens.”

He said NewVue is hoping to install the windows soon, which will help heat the site, and that step is dependent on meeting historic preservation requirements. Linfield also said NewVue has been contacted by people interested in moving into the new development.

No residents living near the project appeared at the hearing to either oppose or support the installation of the tanks.

Board member Marc Maxwell asked Athol Deputy Fire Chief Eric Jack if he had any concerns about the installation of the tanks. Jack said he had none.

“We’ve been working with the property owner and the contractor. We’re very confident,” said Jack. “The plumbing inspector, the building inspector has worked with them to switch to a different style heater. It’s very well protected. So, we’re very comfortable with the situation.”

Following the assurances from Jack, the board voted unanimously to approve the permits for the tanks.

In addition to renovation of the two school buildings, a new building connecting the schools is being constructed to accommodate 20 units of senior housing. The remaining 33 units in the development will be for low- and moderate-income families. The cost of the project is estimated to be in excess of $30 million and is being funded through a combination of grants, loans and tax credits.