Recreation Commission backs Norton family dugout gift at Cochituate Fields

WAYLAND -- December 6, 2022, Wayland Recreation Commission unanimously endorses Norton family's privately funded dugout gift at Cochituate Fields. Julie and Mark Norton, of 6 Sears Road, presented the project as a tribute to their daughter Eliza, with presenter Steve Schamberg outlining a first phase that keeps the existing footprint, adds a fenced on-deck circle and replaces bleachers, targeting a May 1 opening day. Co-chair Kelly Pierce warned the gift still must clear Select Board acceptance and likely state procurement bidding if costs exceed $50,000: "It's on town property." Chair Asa Foster said he would contact Select Board Chair Tom Fay to schedule a hearing. Separately, the commission submitted three Community Preservation Act applications totaling roughly $380,000, including $150,000 for the basketball court and $200,000 for town beach fencing.