Destination Dighton: A Comprehensive Plan for the Town Hall Complex

Destination Dighton A Comprehensive Plan for the Town Hall Complex

Prepared for the Dighton Lions Club Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman The Conway School | Spring 2026

The Dighton Lions Club is a community organization that cares deeply about the future of this site. The club is the main client for this project, and the Town of Dighton is a secondary client.

The primary goal of this project, as identified by both the Lions Club and the Town, is to enhance the functionality, accessibility, and overall usability of the Town Hall Complex for residents and visitors. Achieving this goal requires addressing several key challenges and opportunities throughout the site. One of the most significant concerns raised by the clients is drainage, which affects the usability of certain areas and contributes to ongoing maintenance challenges.

Improving accessibility is another major community objective.

The Town would ideally like to have site amenities and destinations accessible to individuals of all abilities and, where feasible, incorporate Universal Design principles. Universal Design principles aid in the creation of spaces that can be used safely, comfortably, and independently by the broadest possible range of users, regardless of age or ability. In addition, the Town has requested an assessment of the site's potential to accommodate Special Olympics events, requiring consideration of facility needs, accessibility standards, circulation patterns, and spectator accommodations.

A primary focus area for the project is the existing bleacher structure. Constructed in the 1930s, the bleachers are now in poor condition and are believed to no longer adequately meet the needs of contemporary users. The clients and community

A regional open space map shows that Dighton has fewer total public open spaces than its neighbors.

Town Offices Council on Aging

Goals Make the Town Hall Complex more functional and accessible for the community

Sports Fields & Walking Track

Community Garden

A drone aerial image looking southwest at the Town Hall Complex shows the numerous buildings and sports fields on the site.

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Address causes of drainage issues

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Increase ADA accessibility

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Incorporate Universal Design principles

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Increase the site's capacity to host large events

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

The Complex is such an important meeting and recreation space for the community because there are few open spaces in Dighton. The surrounding towns all have more total area of open space than Dighton, but not all open spaces are publicly accessible. Open spaces are places with recreation opportunities like Dighton's Town Hall Complex or Sweets Knoll State Park. The Town Hall Complex is next to the Bristol County Agricultural High School, which is on publicly-owned open space that is not open for public recreation. According to those who frequent the Town Hall Complex, visitors from other towns frequent the Town Hall Complex because they enjoy the space that Dighton has created more than the spaces in their own communities.

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Destination Dighton

members have identified rehabilitation or replacement of this seating as a priority. Beyond the bleachers, the project scope includes evaluation and potential improvements to the walking track, playground, community garden, and connections to the proposed future rail trail adjacent to the site.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

The Dighton Town Hall Complex includes three parcels that cover approximately 14 acres. It includes a number of municipal government buildings along with several amenities for the broader community. These include a walking track, playing fields, an adult exercise circuit, the community playground, and Lions Pavilion. Five to seven festivals happen on the site, each hosting hundreds of visitors and vendors. Sports games and other events like car shows make this space the heart of the community.

Contents Introduction Existing Conditions Community Engagement Wetlands Soils Drainage Sun/Shade Accessibility Summary Analysis Design Alternatives Final Design Phase 1: Drainage Phase 2: Pedestrians Phase 3: Bleachers Phase 4: Playground Phase 5: Community Forest Cost Estimates: Phases 1 & 2 Cost Estimates: Phases 3 & 4 Cost Estimates: Phase 5

Introduction

Introduction

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88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Existing Conditions

ail

Despite the loss of the school building, the Town Hall Complex remains one of the community’s most active and heavily used public spaces. The site regularly hosts a wide variety of events.

Among the most popular are the Vietnam Veterans car shows. The open space also serves as a venue for recreational and athletic activities. Bristol County Agricultural High School frequently uses the grounds for sporting events, particularly softball games, while local organizations, such as the Fire Department, have used the fields for charity tournaments and community-building events.

Rail Tr

Town Offices

In addition to these ongoing recreational uses, the complex hosts several annual festivals. Events such as the Cow Chip Festival and the Strawberry Festival attract large crowds. The Town Hall Complex is a central community asset for recreation, celebrations, and public events throughout the year.

A

Playground

Adult Exercise Circuit

Council on Aging

There are plans to create a rail trail along the defunct railroad line to the east of the site. Mass DCR has developed plans, but the project is on hold due to the high costs. The Dighton community is interested in the project and has expressed a desire to see it completed in the near future.

Future

Rou te 138

Softball Field

1986

Bristol County Agricultural High School

2025

Destination Dighton

Walking Track

School

Lions Pavilion Old Town Hall N

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979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

Community Garden

Existing Conditions

Over the following decades, the site continued to evolve. Additional forested land in the northeastern portion of the property was cleared, as shown in the 2025 satellite image below. The former kindergarten building has been repurposed and now serves as the home of the Council on Aging. One notable difference between the 1986 and 2025 images is the absence of the original school building. In 1991, the structure was destroyed by a fire, bringing an end to nearly six decades of educational use on the site.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

The Town Hall Complex was largely agricultural land until the 1930s, when a portion of the property was cleared for the construction of Dighton High School. In the 1960s, the high school was converted into a middle school. A 1986 satellite image shows the school building at the center of the Town Hall complex, with the Town Offices located to the north and a temporary building to the east that was erected during the 1970s to accommodate kindergarten classrooms.

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Two aerial images, one from 1986 and one from 2025, showing how the layout of the Town Hall Complex has changed over the years. The most important change is the destruction of the school building when a fire tore through it in 1991.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

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What amenities would you like to see at the Town Hall Complex?

Respondents identified a lack of shelter from the elements— particularly sun (see sheet 7). Over 80% of respondents shared that there is not enough shelter from the elements on the site.

Finally, when provided with a list of additional amenities they would like to see in the space, the community had four clear priorities: bathrooms, more shade, trash bins, and a larger playground. Accommodating all of those desires may conflict with other existing uses and necessities. For example, keeping the field open for sports games and practices may not allow for much more shade along the walking track.

Age of Respondents

How often do you visit the Town Hall Complex?

Do you feel the Town Hall Complex has enough sheltered areas?

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Destination Dighton

The respondents confirmed that many of the visitors are younger individuals (ages 25 to 44) and that they're often coming with children. It appears that many of the site users may be young families. Most of the respondents visit the site every one to two weeks with 45% visiting the site more than once a week. The most popular amenities are the playground and the sports fields.

Public events are also a major draw at the site. The final design should retain or improve the benefits that all of those elements provide to the community.

By: Community Engagement Stephen KielyDesigned & Bennett Zimmerman

Between May 6 and May 30, 2026, the Dighton Lions Club facilitated an online survey to gather community feedback on the Town Hall Complex. Over that time, a total of 57 responses were received. The results show that the Lions Club and the Town goals align with the community desires.

Several respondents offered additional comments about the accessibility of the site and the poor state of the playground.

Spring 2026

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

What's your primary motivation for visiting?

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

Community Engagement

Do you have children who use the space?

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88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Wetlands

A The wetland from the field showing a large population of Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus).

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

B

Currently most of the buffer zone on the site is turf lawn or the gravel track. According to the Highway Superintendent, the lawn is not fertilized or sprayed with herbicides. The turf is mown regularly on the inside of the track for sports and on the outside for a clean look. Within the vernal pool, there is no maintenance done. There are several ecologically harmful species in and around the vernal pool such as Common Reed (Phragmities australis) and Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris). They are humanintroduced species that are causing significant harm to this ecosystem by pushing out beneficial native species. Common Reed is known to live in brackish waters along the coast, but has also been found inland around areas that receive salt water in the form of road runoff.

Destination Dighton

A

Wetlands are some of the most valuable resources when it comes to climate change. They can store large quantities of carbon, mitigate flooding, and support numerous species of special conservation concern. Vernal pools in particular support highly specialized species of amphibians and other aquatic life that rely on standing water in spring that will then dry up in the summer. This prevents aquatic predators, like fish, from living in that ecosystem and eating the amphibians' eggs or larvae.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Beyond those restrictions, the Conservation Commission has concerns about the health of the wetland and human comfort. Most of the water from the northern 7 acres of the

site empties through a stormwater outfall into the wetland. That water, including stormwater from catch basins on Route 138, is currently untreated.

Upgrading this system and including a layer of pretreatment before discharge of stormwater into the vernal pool would help to comply with contemporary permitting requirements.

Wetlands

A MassDEP mapped wetland takes up a portion of the northeastern corner of the site. According to the Conservation Commission, the Town considers this wetland a vernal pool, despite it not being certified with the NHESP. That means that the boundary of the vernal pool resource area is 100 feet out from the defined boundary. Dighton has a wetland bylaw that requires a 125-foot no-disturb vegetated buffer zone (the red dashed line below), a 150foot no-build zone (in the orange dashed line), and a 200foot permit review zone (the yellow dashed line) for vernal pools. Work within the wetland boundaries is prohibited.

Work between 125 and 200 feet from the wetland would require review for permitting by the Conservation Commission.

In a meeting on June 10, 2026, the chair of the Conservation Commission and the Town's Conservation Agent stated that new pathways within the buffers, so long as they are permeable, may be permitted. New impervious surfaces would not be allowed within the vernal pool buffers.

B The stormwater outfall in the wetland. The pipe is entirely filled with roots from nearby trees and is severely corroded. It likely isn't moving much water at all during storm events. None of the stormwater is being treated before emptying into the wetland.

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Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

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88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Soils

Massachusetts bedrock mapping indicates an estimated bedrock depth of approximately 30 to 60 feet beneath the surface of the site, placing the site on the shallower end of the regional range. However, field observations suggest that the mapped data may not fully reflect site conditions. Bedrock outcrops have been documented in several locations, including near the Council on Aging, the community garden, and the sports field, indicating that bedrock is significantly closer to the surface than regional datasets suggest.

Shallow bedrock conditions can contribute to a highly variable groundwater table and may limit natural infiltration, increasing the potential for localized pooling and/or saturated soils.

Observations from site visits indicate that many of these characteristics are already present across the site, reinforcing the importance of considering shallow bedrock constraints in future site planning, stormwater management, and infrastructure design.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

The site is predominantly underlain by a thin till deposit, characteristic of areas with shallow bedrock and frequent bedrock outcrops, conditions that are commonly associated with limited soil depth and constrained groundwater movement.

Scarboro

Udorthents

Bedrock Outcrop

ft

The regional soils maps from the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) indicate that the soils surrounding the site are predominantly well-drained sandy loam soils. These soil conditions generally support moderate to fast infiltration across the broader area.

A large area of bedrock above ground outside the community garden.

Within the project site, the NRCS has identified three distinct soil types: Charlton Fine Sandy Loam, Scarboro Mucky Fine Sandy Loam, and Udorthents. The presence of multiple soil classifications suggests variations in site drainage conditions and historical land use. A significant portion of the site, including the existing track area, sits on top of Udorthents. These soils are heavily disturbed or modified soils commonly associated with urban environments and previous construction activities.

These soils are typically characterized by a rocky composition and moderately well-drained conditions. They are also highly variable from site to site. A specific analysis of the soils by a soil scientist would be necessary to assess the suitability of the soils for a tile drainage system or issues regarding compaction.

Current ground observations indicate that the soils may be unfavorably prone to compaction; this likely contributes to pooling and saturated soils within the walking track and sports fields (see Sheet 6).

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Soils

Charlton

Destination Dighton

Windsor

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

A small section of bedrock above ground in the northeast corner of the soccer field.

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88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Based on observed site conditions, the drainage system under the sports field appears unable to adequately manage the volume of stormwater entering it from catch basins and surface flow, likely causing backups that contribute to frequent pooling and the persistently wet conditions on the field. According to the Town, these persistently wet conditions limit the use of the space for growing community event needs.

When water leaves the site, it drains east towards the Taunton River. The river has a Wild & Scenic designation from the federal government and is an important ecological and picturesque part of the community.

According to the Taunton River Watershed Alliance, a local non-profit that manages 20 monitoring stations along the river, the main pollution concern is high levels of nutrients brought to the river through stormwater runoff.

Pooling

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The current drainage patterns and infrastructure is likely impacting the health of the vernal pool. Treating runoff, especially from impervious surfaces, may help improve the health of the vernal pool. It is possible that capturing runoff from impervious surfaces upslope of the field could reduce its sogginess, but soil and bedrock conditions may also contribute to saturation issues.

Dighton sits within four watersheds: Mount Hope Bay, Palmer River, Three Mile River, and Taunton River.

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

The current stormwater infrastructure captures water from five downspouts from the Town Offices, several catch basins along the paved surfaces on the western and southern sides of the track, two catch basins on Route 138, French drains under the track, and plastic grates in the sports fields. The drainage system beneath the sports field consists of a mix of clay, metal, and perforated plastic pipes, which have not been formally mapped.

The map to the right approximates the location of the pipes based on conversations with the Highway Administrator and the observed locations of catch basins, grates, and maintenance access points. There is a single outfall that empties a majority of the site's untreated stormwater directly into the vernal pool in the northeast of the site.

Destination Dighton

When surface runoff reaches the sports field, water tends to remain on the surface, resulting in persistently damp ground conditions. The sports field has relatively shallow grades, ranging from approximately 0.5% to 2%, and shallow bedrock, which contribute to slow drainage and prolonged saturation. Four primary areas of pooling have been identified along the track.

Drainage

The site can produce a substantial volume of stormwater. Based on simplified runoff calculations, a typical 1-inch rainfall event occurring over a 30-minute period generates approximately 103,203 gallons of runoff after accounting for land cover type.

Surface water on the site generally flows from west to east.

Paved roadways and other impervious surfaces direct water towards the sports fields.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Drainage

This drone aerial image looking south shows the Town Hall Complex with the Taunton River in the background.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

6/19

Summer Solstice

The Google Street View image from September 2019 (top right) captures the search for shade by the track. Kids are all crowded together under the only tree tall enough to cast shade along the track. Sadly, that tree had to come down.

In its place is the small maple shown in the image below.

For the next decade or so under the current conditions, there likely won’t be trees tall enough to cast shade on the

Bleachers

Bennett standing next to a 12-foot tall maple in place of a large tree that came down in the past few years. The tree casts almost no shade.

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Fall Equinox

Bleachers

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

A group of children seek out shade under a large tree by the track in September 2019. The tree came down a few years later.

Destination Dighton

The sun exposure on the site makes it feel fairly uncomfortable during warmer months. The graphics below show the amount of sun the site receives across a black and white spectrum with darker areas getting the most shade and lighter areas getting the most sun. During the summer solstice, most of the area receives more than 10 hours of sun. The northern half, which includes the sports field and track, receives between 12 and 14 hours of direct sunlight, shown in the lightest gray. On a hot summer day watching sports, walking the track in that area, or sitting on the bleachers would be exceedingly warm. The fall equinox is often another hot time of year that people could be at the track. There is little improvement with the area still receiving between 10 and 12 hours of direct sunlight.

field during the middle of the day and the afternoon. The extreme heat expected as climate change continues makes providing shade a public health necessity. Current data shows that there are roughly 8,000 deaths per year in the United States due to extreme heat.

Researchers in 2024 found that closer to 19,000 to 26,000 people are expected to die annually from extreme heat by mid-century (20362065) (Khatana et al., "Projections of Extreme Temperature–Related Deaths in the US.," JAMA Netw Open). The health risks and expressed community desires support increasing shade in the northern portion of the site, which may not be compatible with some desired uses. For example, the sports fields must remain clear for games and practice, but that leaves no shade over a large portion of the site.

Sun/Shade

In the community survey, 82% of respondents reported that there was not enough shade available on the site. That overwhelming response indicates a clear community goal.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Sun/Shade

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88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Accessibility

Although gravel surfaces such as the track and softball field can be made accessible with the appropriate aggregate, the existing materials are not accessible as they are easily displaced and frequently muddy due to ponding. A person using a mobility aid may not be able to roll over the area without getting stuck or being unable to turn.

There is currently no accessible route to the lowest row of the bleachers, and the bleachers do not have an accessible viewing/spectator area. The flat area behind the top row of the bleacher seats is a vehicle driving lane.

These conditions also limit access to the site of the future rail trail. Steep slopes and inaccessible materials would make it difficult to access the site.

A drone aerial view of the track looking south. The track can only be accessed by stairs or a ramp that is too steep to meet ADA requirements. In the background, the ramp up to the Council on Aging is even steeper preventing people from accessing the front door if they cannot park in the top lot.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Destination Dighton

Accessible Slopes Analysis

Accessibility

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979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

The site currently has limited accessible surface materials. Areas such as the adult fitness circuit and playground have sand or mulch surfaces, which do not provide universal accessibility.

Much of the property consists of turf grass, while other areas are surfaced with asphalt, concrete, or gravel. The accessible asphalt and concrete surfaces with slopes under 5% almost entirely coincide with parking lots and roads. It forces those needing accessible paths to contend with vehicular traffic, creating a safety hazard.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards require that any public facility have accessible pathways, building entrances, and amenities. All buildings on the site have an ADA-compliant entrance and dedicated accessible parking spaces. The clients and the director of the Council on Aging have reported that there are not enough parking spaces to meet the needs of community members who need an accessible parking spot. The clients are also concerned about accessible circulation throughout the site. An accessible path is one that is made from a firm and stable material and meets certain grade requirements.

Currently on site, the slopes are fairly limiting. Roughly 50% of the site sits below 5% slope, while the other 50% is over the 5% ADA threshold. The activity areas, like the track or the Council on Aging, are generally accessible once you reach them, but there aren’t accessible paths to them unless you can park in the parking lot designated for the facility. Accessible paths under 5% slopes can be achieved by regrading existing non-compliant slopes and installing a firm surface.

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88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Summary Analysis

100'

The bleachers have been repaired many times since the 1930s, but are in poor condition. One member of the Lions Club even described this as "a public safety issue," when speaking to a group of volunteers at the Cow Chip Festival. A replacement for the existing structure is necessary.

Ideally shading is incorporated into the replacement as this is a hot, sunny area. Accessible seating and/or viewing areas are also lacking in the current bleacher configuration.

There are several low-use amenities like the community garden and the adult exercise circuit that, based on the community survey, may need to be updated or could be converted into more desirable amenities.

Legend

Destination Dighton

Drainage is a consistent problem on the track and the sports fields. This is likely due to compaction from regular use, shallow depth-to-bedrock, soil composition, and aging tile drain infrastructure. Four main areas of pooling on the track correspond with areas where water weeps from the retaining wall or stays in an area compacted by overuse.

Futur

The vernal pool in the northeast of the property has a regulated buffer; the design must meet local bylaw restrictions. The Town's wetland bylaws may prevent or constrain changes to the walking track or the development of an access path to the future rail trail.

e Rail

Most of the daily activity takes place on the southern portion of the property, which has the highest density of amenities on the property (playground, Council on Aging, Lions Pavilion, and Old Town Hall).

It is also the area with most respite from the sun and the highest concentration of parking. Many utilities run under the southern portion of the site, allowing for potential amenities that require utility access such as a splash pad or bathrooms.

Summary Analysis

Trail

Another main concern on site is connectivity between activity areas.

There are no sidewalks on site and pedestrians must contend with vehicular traffic during daily use. Apprehensions have been raised by the Highway Administrator that these roadways could be used to cause significant harm to people attending events if someone were to drive a car through the area. Reducing vehicular and pedestrian conflict is a site- and client-driven priority.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Ve r n al Po Reso ol urce Area

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

To make the space more accessible, there are key slopes that will need to be addressed. In particular, creating accessible pedestrian connections to the Council on Aging and down to the walking track are priorities. The current materials across much of the property are inaccessible, making space like the playground and the track unusable per ADA requirements. Accessibility doesn't just mean how someone gets to a location, but also how they experience the area beyond movement. The extreme sun on the track and field is a hazard to young children, seniors, and those with underlying health conditions who are trying to enjoy the space.

Hot Sun High Use Area Pooling Problem Areas Inaccessible Slopes

Vehicle Traffic Low Use Areas 0

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

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Bring Community Together

Resilient Commons

Special Olympics

Bring Community Together envisions the site approximately 20 years in the future, when the rail trail provides expanded bicycle access to the site. The design removes road and parking south of the track to create a pedestrian only community space. The design relocates the Council on Aging (COA) to a flatter, more accessible location near the Veterans’ Memorial, removing the temporary building and creating space for a larger playground and a new community plaza. Children using the playground can move back and forth to the bleachers without crossing vehicular traffic. The community garden is moved just east of the plaza alongside a small orchard to encourage greater visibility and participation. Additional improvements include relocating the softball bleachers behind home plate for better viewing, adding numerous shade trees throughout the site, creating a stormwater swale to manage runoff, and establishing a meadow area that expands pollinator habitat.

Resilient Commons prioritizes environmental protection and assumes the wetland may be regulated as a vernal pool. The design enhances habitat and shade through the addition of large clusters of canopy trees and incorporates new stormwater swales to capture and treat runoff before it reaches the wetland or rail trail drainage system.

New gravel trails improve connectivity throughout the site, while a rock garden provides an informal gathering and play area. The softball field is converted to a grass field to improve water infiltration, reoriented north–south, and paired with smaller, more accessible bleachers behind home plate. Additional improvements include a new accessible playground and splash pad, safer pedestrian circulation with sidewalks, crosswalks, and speed bumps, and the inclusion of the planned parking area that will serve future rail trail users.

This concept explores how the site could support hosting the Special Olympics. The design proposes a new parking area to the north capable of meeting event parking requirements. New pedestrian pathways improve connections between sports facilities, while large bleachers on both sides of the track provide seating for up to 1,000 spectators and include accessible seating areas and solar canopy structures for shade and energy generation. The track is upgraded to a fully accessible poured-in-place rubber surface suitable for competitive events, and new permanent restroom facilities are added near the athletic areas and Town Offices. Removable bollards allow the central paved areas to be closed to vehicles during events, creating a safer, pedestrian-focused environment for athletes, spectators, and community gatherings.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

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Destination Dighton

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Design Alternatives

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Rail T

rail Bl

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Rail T

rail Rail T

Bleachers

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Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Design Alternatives

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88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Final Design This design enhances the experience of visitors to the Town Hall Complex by making it more pedestrian friendly.

Focusing on shade and safety, new tree-lined sidewalks keep pedestrians out of the road. ADA accessible paths that connect the major destinations: the Town Offices, walking track, community forest, playground, and rail trail. A new playground offers a play experience for all, including a splash pad where people can beat the heat.

A

The new concrete bleachers are smaller and sized for 400 people. They include a fivefoot wide extension of the top row at grade with the sidewalk to allow for wheelchair access. The bleachers have built-in aluminum bench seating to create a more comfortable experience compared to the existing concrete. A photovoltaic shade structure limits sun exposure for spectators and generates clean energy for the Town.

B

C Park and Event Space Expansion

Tree wells and bioretention basins along the new sidewalk capture water as it leaves the paved road to the west and south of the track.

A new 9,800-square-foot bioretention swale includes two basins that filter stormwater from the northern seven acres of the site. When water overflows, it goes through multiple stages of filtering before draining into the vernal pool.

D

rail

E

E C

Stormwater Infrastructure

Rail T

The Town could explore the possibility of acquiring and developing the 7-acre parcel to the north of the site as parking, event, and green space. This could be helpful in meeting requirements for event parking, should the Town host larger events.

E

Route 138

B

New Pedestrian Features A new sidewalk leads from the site's northwest entrance down to the track. The sidewalk is five feet wide and buffered from the road with five-foot-wide tree wells. The tree wells capture and filter runoff from the road and treat it before directing it into the drainage pipes under the sports field. The trees along the sidewalk add more shade and a cooler microclimate. Crosswalks and speed tables increase safety where pedestrians cross vehicular traffic. All vehicle traffic is now one-way within the site, with an entrance in the northwest and an exit in the southwest. One-way vehicle traffic minimizes conflict with pedestrians, who can more easily see and predict where cars will be.

C

F

Expanded Playground & Splash Pad A new 8,500-square-foot playground and splash pad area offers children an exciting inclusive space to have fun. During the summer months, a splash pad gives the community a place to beat the heat. A restroom and changing area located just outside the playground allows easy, comfortable access to necessary facilities.

F

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

A new community forest replaces the community garden, offering a quiet respite for visitors to the site. It includes an enlarged parking lot that accommodates 15 cars with a traprock gravel path that leads southeast to the Taunton River Rail Trail. At the center is a small, looping path with benches and a central reinforced turf lawn for quiet activities.

Bleacher Remodel

Destination Dighton

D

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Community Forest

Final Design

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Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

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The first phase of this plan is addressing the underground drainage system. Stormwater modeling may show that the current system may not accommodate the volume of water that is currently draining to it. A professional should be consulted to calculate the amount of runoff that is going into the system, fully map and assess the current pipes, and assess the soil's specific capacity to handle a drainage system.

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88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Phase 1: Drainage 36 35 34

Upgrading the system may require detention and pretreatment of runoff. New tree wells, outlined in Phase 2, capture runoff from the road through the site, reducing the amount of untreated water entering the drainage system. This design includes installing a large bioretention swale to capture and treat water leaving the drainage system before it enters the vernal pool on the site. This should mitigate the current hazardous discharge into the resource area. The bioretention basin plant palette includes several species adapted for the conditions of a basin.

34 35 36.5

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Check Dam

Above: Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor) Below: Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata)

34.5

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The bioretention swale could use plants from the recommended list below as well as a seed mix like the Erosion Control/Restoration Mix for Detention Basins from New England Wetland Plants.

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Note: This phase must be completed before Phase 2 or Phase 3 as the infrastructure in this phase runs underneath the infrastructure modified/proposed in those two phases.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

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SPREAD (FEET)

SEASONAL INTEREST BY MONTH J

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M

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M

J

J

A X

Ilex verticillata

Winterberry

8

5

X

X

Rhododendron viscosum

Swamp Azalea

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5

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Magnolia virginiana

Sweetbay Magnolia

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10

X

X

Anemone canadensis

Canada Windflower

2

3

Asclepias incarnata

Swamp Milkweed

3

2

Eutrochium maculatum

Spotted Joe Pye Weed

6

4

Iris versicolor

Blue Flag Iris

3

2

Lobelia cardinalis

Cardinal Flower

3

2

Penstemon digitalis

Foxglove Beardtongue

3

1

3

2

Floral

J

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae New England Aster Base

J

Carex brevoir

Shortbeak Sedge

2

2

Carex crinita

Fringed Sedge

3

2

Carex lupilina

Hop Sedge

3

2

Carex stricta

Tussock Sedge

3

2

Carex vulpinoidea

Fox Sedge

2

2

Juncus effusus

Soft Rush

3

3

X

represents a white bloom

F

F

M

M

A

A

O

N

D

Below: Swamp Milkweed ( Asclepias incarnata)

M

J

J

X

X

X

X

X

J

J

M

S

A

S

O

N

D

A

S

O

N

D

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

HEIGHT (FEET)

80 ft.

Destination Dighton

COMMON NAME

Shrubs

40

Phase 1: Drainage

SCIENTIFIC NAME

20

0

Bioretention Plant Palette

12/19

Slope to Track

Tree Slope to Town Offices

One-Way Road

Well

Sidewalk

A section showing the sidewalk infrastructure with tree wells and a separated sidewalk for pedestrians.

SPREAD (FEET)

Trees Canada Serviceberry

20

15

Benthamidia florida

Flowering Dogwood

20

15

Cercis candaensis

Eastern Redbud

20

20

Oxydendrum arboreum

Sourwood

20

12

Floral Nodding Onion

1

1

Amsonia hubrichtii

Blue Star

3

2

Aquilegia canadensis

Red Columbine

3

2

Asclepias incarnata

Swamp Milkweed

3

2

Comptonia peregrina

Sweetfern

3

2

Liatris spicata

Dense Blazing Star

3

2

Monarda punctata

Spotted Beebalm

2

2

Solidago bicolor

Silverrod

3

1

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

New England Aster

3

2

Carex brevoir

Shortbeak Sedge

2

2

Carex crinita

Fringed Sedge

3

2

Carex lupilina

Hop Sedge

3

2

Base

J

represents a white bloom

F

M

A

M

X

X X

J

Allium cernuum

160 ft.

SEASONAL INTEREST BY MONTH J

Amelanchier canadensis

80

F

F

M

M

A

A

M

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

X X

X

J

J

J

J

Below: New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

A

S

O

X

X

X

A

S

O

N

D

N

D

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

HEIGHT (FEET)

40

Destination Dighton

0

Phase 2: Pedestrians

N

Tree Well Plant Palette

X

Exisiting Stone Wall

Above: Canada Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) Below: Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

Note: This phase can take place after phase 3 if the drainage connections that must run underneath the bleachers are brought out to where the sidewalk tree wells will be during phase 1. Dealing with drainage first is essential as the bleachers would need to be removed and replaced for a second time.

COMMON NAME

10 ft.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

This phase focuses on providing pedestrian infrastructure to increase safety. The first step is to turn the road into a one-way only access for vehicles and close the driveway entrance to the immediate south of the Town Offices. This allows pedestrians to see or hear where traffic is coming from, without having to look both ways. It also eliminates several entry points that are not wide enough to handle two-way traffic. Next a 5-foot-wide sidewalk with tree pits is installed on the inner side of the road upslope of the track. This separates pedestrians from vehicular traffic and narrows the road, which acts as a traffic calming measure to slow vehicles. The 90-degree parking spaces on the eastern side of the Town Offices are converted into 60-degree parking spaces, which creates enough space for the sidewalk and road narrowing. Between the road and the sidewalk is a vegetated buffer with tree wells. The added trees shade the sidewalk and treat stormwater runoff before entering the drainage system. There are also 5-foot by 5-foot pull-off areas if any vehicular passing is necessary.

Speed tables are installed along the road to further slow traffic and allow for safe level crossings, especially between the track and the playground. The sidewalk continues down to the track at a 5% slope, allowing for continuous ADA access to the area. New wayfinding signs let drivers know where they should go for certain services and that the road is one-way only.

SCIENTIFIC NAME

5

0

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Phase 2: Pedestrians

13/19

Solar Canopy

One-Way Road

ADA Seating

Bleachers 5

10 ft.

Destination Dighton

0

Track

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

Parking

Tree Side Well Walk

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

This phase also includes upgrading the walking track to a poured-in-place rubber track for ADA access to the bottom row of seats. Permitting will be required through the Conservation Commission as it is within the buffer zone around the vernal pool.

Exisiting Stone wall

Phase 3: Bleachers

This phase includes demolishing and removing the existing bleachers. They are no longer in a state that can support rebuilding them with the existing infrastructure. Engineered slope supports may be necessary as the bleachers are likely acting as a retaining wall for the road near the Town Offices.

The bleachers should be replaced with an updated concrete base structure for longevity and to preserve the site image of the original bleachers. Aluminum benches are bolted into the concrete to provide more comfort than bare concrete. The whole structure accommodates a seating capacity for 400 people, which is more reasonable for the size of events currently happening on site. The top level is extended 5 feet east and kept at grade with the sidewalk to allow for roll-up ADA access.

A 24-inch-tall railing at the edge provides necessary edge protection before the 2-foot drop to the next level. Another 5-foot-wide space is included at the bottom of the bleachers for additional roll-up access at the field level, which is accessible from the track. For spectators, photovoltaic solar panels form a shade structure above the bleachers. This makes watching a game or event more comfortable and provides energy generation.

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Phase 3: Bleachers

N 0

Solar PV shade structures at the River Valley Co-Op in Easthampton, MA. Similar structures could provide shade for spectators sitting on the bleachers.

40

80

160 ft.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

14/19

area and supplies the Council on Aging. New benches and wheelchair-accessible picnic tables along the edges of the area provide a space for lunches and let guardians watch the children they're with. New trees outside the playground and preserved trees within the playground cast shade to make a comfortable microclimate.

Speed Table

Path

Restrooms

A playground in Williamstown, MA offers accessible equipment so that all children can enjoy the space.

Phase 4: Playground

48

50

49

Destination Dighton

Playground

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

Access to the playground is through new fence gates and an accessible path from the Old Town Hall parking lot to the west side of the playground.

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

This phase enhances the playground area to better serve the community experience. The whole playground area is expanded to 8,500 square feet and a new splash pad is introduced. The surface is a permeable poured-in-place rubber that meets safety and accessibility requirements. Poured-in-place rubber provides ADA access to the playground equipment with new wheelchair-accessible swings and ground-level equipment.

The splash pad is entirely accessible. Water for the splash pad is supplied by the water line that runs underneath the

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Phase 4: Playground

Splash pad

A splash pad at Clapp Park in Pittsfield, MA offers a fun play area, which can act as a cooling area during hot summers.

52

N

51 0

5

10

20 ft.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

15/19

52 51

N 50

48

SCIENTIFIC NAME

COMMON NAME

0

49

HEIGHT (FEET) SPREAD (FEET)

Trees White Oak

60

30

Cladastris kentukea

Kentucky Yellowwood

40

40

Liriodendron tulipifera

Tulip Tree

80

40

Populus deltoides

Eastern Cottonwood

80

40

Prunus serotina

Black Cherry

60

30

40 ft.

47

SEASONAL INTEREST BY MONTH J

Quercus alba

20

Above: Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) Below: White Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricata)

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

J

A

S

O

N

D

X

X

X

X

X

A

S

O

N

D

X

X

X

M

J

Below: Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)

Floral

J

F

M

A

Eurybia divaricata

White Wood Aster

2

1

Eurybia macrophylla

Big Leaf Aster

2

2

Mertensia virginica

Virginia Bluebells

1

1

Podophyllum peltatum

Mayapple

1

4

X

Sanguinaria canadensis

Bloodroot

0.5

0.5

X

Solidago caesia

Blue-stem Goldenrod

2

1

Stylophorum diphyllum

Wood Poppy

1

1

Viola sororia

Blue Violet

0.5

0.5

Carex appalachica

Appalachian Sedge

1

1

Carex pensylvanica

Pennsylvania Sedge

1

1

Deschampsia flexuosa

Wavy Hair Grass

2

1

Fragaria vesca

Woodland Strawberry

0.5

0.5

Phlox divaricata

Woodland Phlox

1

2

Prunella vulgaris

Self-heal

0.5

1

Tiarella cordifolia

Foamflower

1

2

Base

X

J

represents a white bloom

F

M

A

X

M

J

J

X

X Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Destination Dighton

53

Phase 5: Community Forest

54

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

55

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

On the northern-most parcel, all infrastructure from the community garden has been removed.

A slightly larger parking lot allows for 15 parking spots for the new trailhead to the Taunton River Rail Trail. Beyond the parking lot, there is a small forest planted with a clearing at the center. There are several benches scattered throughout the space and a small loop trail with a reinforced turf lawn at the center. Visitors to the site can rest and reflect in this small section away from the busy areas throughout the rest of the complex.

A traprock gravel path connects the parking lot to the rail trail to the east and the Conservation Commission considers it an acceptable surface option in this location per a meeting on June 10, 2026.

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Phase 5: Community Forest

16/19

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Cost Estimates: Phases 1 & 2 Given current uncertainties regarding tariffs and other financial conditions, accurately estimating future costs is extremely difficult. The cost estimates on this sheet are approximations based on current prices which may fluctuate wildly, and cannot predict future contingencies.

Unit Cost

Line Item

Total

Quantity

Units

Unit Cost

Total

Site Prep

Site Prep Excavation for tile drainage system

8,100 cubic yards

$50.00

$405,000.00

Asphalt removal for sidewalk

10,725 square foot

$5.00

$53,625.00

Excavation for bioretention swale

650 cubic yards

$50.00

$32,500.00

Asphalt removal for driveway closure

6,050 square foot

$5.00

$30,250.00

Erosion control

700 linear foot

$8.00

$5,600.00

Erosion control

Subtotal

$443,100.00

Site Improvements Field tile drainage system

1 lump sum

$200,000.00

$200,000.00

Fine grading for bioretention swale

9,800 square feet

$1.00

$9,800.00

Planting base layer for bioretention swale (plugs)

5,000 each

$5.00

$25,000.00

Planting floral layer for bioretention swale

5,000 each

$5.00

$25,000.00

Planting shrubs layer for bioretention swale (3'-4' ht.)

75 each

$70.00

$5,250.00

Stone for bioretention swale

1 cubic yards

$70.00

$70.00

5,000 square foot

$35.00

$175,000.00

1 lump sum

$8,000.00

$8,000.00

Invasive plant removal for vernal pool Check dam, concrete

Subtotal

$448,120.00

General Civil Engineer

1 lump sum

$10,000.00

$10,000.00

Permitting

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Taxes

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Subtotal

$10,000.00

Total

$901,220.00

Contingency (10%)

$90,122.00

Mobilization (10%)

$90,122.00

Construction Surveying

$18,024.40

Grand Total

$1,099,488.40

800 linear foot

$8.00 Subtotal

$6,400.00 $90,275.00

Site Improvements Tree pits, including stormwater infrastructure Concrete sidewalk, 4" depth

1 lump sum

$250,000.00

$250,000.00

$25.00

$122,500.00

Deciduous trees, 6-8' height

61 each

$350.00

$21,350.00

Planting for tree pits, base and floral (1 gal. pots)

244 each

$37.50

$9,150.00

Granite curbing

4,900 square foot

1,800 linear foot

$90.00

$162,000.00

Topsoil for tree pits

15 cubic yard

$65.00

$975.00

Topsoil for driveway closure

90 cubic yard

Asphalt speed tables and striping

2 each

$65.00

$5,850.00

$20,000.00

$40,000.00

Parking striping Road signs

22 each

$20.00

$440.00

3 each

$300.00

$900.00

Seeding

80 pound

$7.00

$560.00

Hardwood mulch

28 cubic yard

$50.00 Subtotal

$1,400.00 $615,125.00

General Civil Engineer

1 lump sum

$10,000.00

$10,000.00

Permitting

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Taxes

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Subtotal

$10,000.00

Total

$715,400.00

Contingency (10%)

$71,540.00

Mobilization (10%)

$71,540.00

Construction Surveying

$14,308.00

Grand Total

$872,788.00

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Destination Dighton

Units

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Quantity

Cost Estimates: 1 & 2

Line Item

Phase 2: Pedestrians

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

Phase 1: Drainage

17/19

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Cost Estimates: Phases 3 & 4 Given current uncertainties regarding tariffs and other financial conditions, accurately estimating future costs is extremely difficult. The cost estimates on this sheet are approximations based on current prices which may fluctuate wildly, and cannot predict future contingencies.

Unit Cost

Line Item

Total

Erosion control

1 lump sum

$270,000.00

$270,000.00

200 linear foot

$8.00

$1,600.00

Subtotal

$271,600.00

Site Improvements Concrete bleachers w/ aluminum benches

1 lump sum

$1,200,000.00

$1,200,000.00

100 linear foot

$100.00

$10,000.00

1,425 cubic yard

$30.00

$42,750.00

325 cubic yard

$65.00

$21,125.00

PV solar shade structure over bleachers

2,400 square foot

$375.00

$900,000.00

Poured-in-place rubber track

24,000 square foot

$45.00

$1,080,000.00

Railing Fill for removed bleacher section Topsoil for removed bleacher section

Hydro-seed with tackifier

Units

Unit Cost

Total

Site Prep

Site Prep Demolish bleachers, including hauling

Quantity

1,000.00 square foot

$0.50 Subtotal

$500.00 $3,254,375.00

General Costs Civil Engineer

1 lump sum

$15,000.00

Permitting

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Taxes

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Subtotal Total

$15,000.00

$15,000.00

Removal and hauling of exisiting playground

1 lump sum

$120,000.00

$120,000.00

Erosion control

750 linear foot

$8.00

$6,000.00

Tree protection

1 lump sum

$1,000.00

$1,000.00

Subtotal

$127,000.00

Site Improvements Playground retaining wall, 30" high

1 lump sum

$40,000.00

$40,000.00

New playground structure and equipment

1 lump sum

$65,000.00

$65,000.00

New splash pad

1 lump sum

$85,000.00

$85,000.00

Poured-in-place rubber surface

8,200 square foot

$40.00

$328,000.00

Splash pad drainage

2,500 square foot

$40.00

$100,000.00

Asphalt path to playground, 2" depth

1,850 square foot

$32.00

$59,200.00

8 each

$500.00

$4,000.00

5,500.00 square foot

$1.00

$5,500.00

$7.00

$49.00

Wood picnic tables Regrading Seed

7 pounds

Bathroom facility

1 lump sum

$70,000.00

$70,000.00

Sewer connection and water

1 lump sum

$12,000.00

$12,000.00

Subtotal

$768,749.00

General Civil Engineer

1 lump sum

$15,000.00

$15,000.00

Permitting

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Taxes

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Subtotal

$15,000.00

$3,540,975.00

Contingency (10%)

$354,097.50

Total

$910,749.00

Mobilization (10%)

$354,097.50

Contingency (10%)

$91,074.90

Construction Surveying

$70,819.50

Mobilization (10%)

$91,074.90

Construction Surveying

$18,214.98

Grand Total

$4,319,989.50

Grand Total

$1,111,113.78

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Destination Dighton

Units

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Quantity

Cost Estimates: 3 & 4

Line Item

Phase 4: Playground

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

Phase 3: Bleachers

18/19

88 Village Hill Rd.Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu

Cost Estimates: Phase 5 Given current uncertainties regarding tariffs and other financial conditions, accurately estimating future costs is extremely difficult. The cost estimates on this sheet are approximations based on current prices which may fluctuate wildly, and cannot predict future contingencies.

Phase 5: Community Forest Quantity

Units

Unit Cost

Total

Removal and hauling of community garden fence and shed

1 lump sum

Clearing and grubbing

1 acre

$15,000.00

$15,000.00

$10,000.00

$10,000.00

Subtotal

$25,000.00

Site Improvements Fine grading for new path

1,350 square foot

$1.00

$1,350.00

Trap rock gravel loop path

2,150 square foot

$3.50

$7,525.00

Asphalt parking lot, 2" depth

135 ton

$600.00

$81,000.00

Parking space striping

15 each

$20.00

$300.00

Deciduous trees for parking lot, 6-8' trees

4 each

$750.00

$3,000.00

1,200 each

$5.00

$6,000.00

Deciduous trees for community forest, 6-8' trees

30 each

$750.00

$22,500.00

Understory seeding for community forest

15 pound

$62.50

$937.50

Benches

7 lump sum

$800.00

$5,600.00

Perennials for parking lot (plugs)

Subtotal

$128,212.50

Designed By: Stephen Kiely & Bennett Zimmerman Spring 2026

Line Item Site Prep

General Costs $10,000.00

Permitting

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Taxes

1 lump sum

TBD

$0.00

Subtotal

$10,000.00

Total

$163,212.50

Contingency (10%)

$16,321.25

Mobilization (10%)

$16,321.25

Construction Surveying

$3,264.25

Grand Total

$199,119.25

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

979 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA 02715

$10,000.00

Destination Dighton

1 lump sum

Cost Estimates: 5

Civil Engineer

19/19