The Select Board has accepted a new town road, clearing a key hurdle for grant funding for a major housing project at the former St. Patrick’s School site.
Board members walked the newly paved road, which loops through the 87 Main St. property, during a site walk Wednesday prior to the vote. Features such as planned pedestrian sidewalks have not yet been installed.
Mike Shea, representing developer MJ & MJ Realty Ventures LLC, outlined plans during the site walk for 14 duplexes along the roadway and a 30-unit workforce housing complex toward the rear of the site.
The apartment building, to be developed by the Keene Housing Authority, prompted developers to request early road acceptance rather than waiting for project completion.
“In order for the Keene Housing Authority to proceed, they need to be able to demonstrate that they have access to the parcel of property in order to apply for grant funding,” Shea said during the public hearing. “Without being able to apply for grant funding this year, it will delay the project for another year.”
No members of the public spoke for or against the road acceptance during the hearing.
Selectman Andy Lawn voiced support for the motion. “In my opinion, it looks to be very professionally done, and I think it would be a nice addition to the town of Jaffrey,” he said.
Board Chair Charlie Turcotte noted that Highway and Facilities Superintendent Todd Croteau confirmed the road meets town construction standards.
“At this point, I don’t have any reason to delay this,” Turcotte said.
Selectman Frank Sterling recused himself from the discussion and vote. Turcotte and Lawn approved the road acceptance 2-0.