UPDATE: A controversial plan to annex 183 acres and develop a major residential project east of Hadley Creek Golf Course has ignited urgent concerns among local residents. During an informational meeting on October 24, 2023, nearly 60 neighbors gathered to voice their apprehensions regarding the proposed Hadley Valley development, which includes plans for 177 single-family homes and 28 fourplex lots.
Local officials, including Haverhill Township Board Member Steve Pollack, revealed that the project is progressing rapidly due to an existing orderly annexation agreement with Rochester. This agreement allows the developers to bypass township review, raising alarm among residents about insufficient oversight. Pollack expressed surprise at how long the potential for development had remained dormant, stating, “I’m kind of surprised that it held out as long as it did.”
The proposed development site is located northeast of the intersection at 48th Street Northeast and Hadley Valley Road. The annexation process is expected to expedite approvals once a developer formally requests to integrate the property into Rochester’s city limits, requiring subsequent approval from the Rochester City Council. Pollack added that this situation leaves little control for the township board, heightening community fears.
During the meeting, residents voiced significant concerns about the increased housing density, anticipated traffic congestion, and potential environmental impacts. The proposed plans by Farmland, LLC aim to provide a diverse range of housing options, with some discussions around designing smaller lots alongside larger homes. Adam Pleschourt, an engineer from Widseth hired for the project, noted that while plans are still in flux, the intention is to minimize environmental disruptions, particularly avoiding construction in wetlands.
As part of the development, plans include dedicating 3.5 acres for future park development and preserving portions of the existing floodway for trails and green space. However, residents from nearby communities, such as the Connemara development, remain uneasy about the implications of this new housing project.
Pleschourt reassured attendees that a comprehensive traffic study and environmental review are currently underway, which will be incorporated into the general development plan submitted to city officials. Even though the initial review process may not be extensive, residents will have opportunities to share their views in future neighborhood meetings as the project advances.
Craig Britton, another engineer involved in the project, emphasized that further reviews by the Rochester Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council will be necessary before construction can commence. He estimated that ground could be broken as early as late summer 2024, pending approval.
Residents are urged to stay informed and engaged as this developing situation unfolds, as the potential impact on the community could be significant. The urgency surrounding this project has sparked a wave of discussions among neighbors, making it clear that Haverhill Township’s future is hanging in the balance.
