Politics & Government

Winchester Firm to Design Yentile Farm Recreational Facility

The design process will begin in January and take approximately 12 to 14 weeks to complete, with an estimated price tag of $35,000.


Wilmington moved one step closer to development of the former Yentile Farm on Monday with the selection of a Winchester firm to complete designs for a recreational facility on the town-owned land. 

Waterfield Design Associates of Winchester was selected to develop the concept and schematic design for a recreational facility at the former Yentile Farm, according to Wilmington Town Manager Jeff Hull. 

The design process will begin in January and take approximately 12 to 14 weeks to complete, with the estimated total cost for concept and schematic design at $35,000.

The Yentile property is 20.3 acres, located along Cross Street between Routes 129 and 38.  The site contains wetlands to the northeast and southeast and is partially located within the 100-year floodplain, restricting development opportunities.

Waterfield Design Associates were singled out for their experience and skills in the process of designing multi-use public destinations that serve a broad range of ages and needs, according to Hull. 

The Yentile Farm Development Committee worked with town leaders to issue a comprehensive Request for Proposals in September, and after evaluating proposals and interviewing two finalists, Waterfield received a unanimous recommendation from the Committee.

Criteria evaluated by the committee in selecting a firm included designer experience, history of public projects, the proposed plan for design and public engagement in the design process, permitting experience and the ability to perform all design work related to the project.

Waterfield's Massachusetts portfolio includes Ronan Park in Boston, Mystic View Playgrounds in Somerville, Winchester Soccer Club, Vietnam Veteran's Park in Billerica and Boston College Alumni Stadium storm water improvements. 

The concept and schematic design process, as proposed by Waterfield, will include multiple public workshops to gather input and feedback from the community on the direction of the design. 

Wilmington Town Meeting appropriated $50,000 for concept and schematic design of former Yentile Farm, which provides an opportunity to expand the town's recreational space through the development of a multi-purpose recreational area.

The Yentile Farm Development Committee meets monthly and includes a broad representation of the community including Selectwoman Judy O'Connell serving as Chairperson, representatives from the community, various youth athletic leagues and organizations and from various departments within town.

Their next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 14, at 6 p.m. at Wilmington Town Hall in room 9. As always, the public is welcome to attend. 

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