Wayland Economic Development survey tops 1,000 responses in first 48 hours

WAYLAND -- November 22, 2024, Wayland's economic development survey draws 1,000 responses in 48 hours, doubling its first-month goal. Committee Chair Rebecca Stanizzi told the Nov. 22 meeting that the Route 20 corridor survey, led by member Karen Kelly, blew past a 750-response target and will close around Dec. 12 ahead of a Dec. 16 Select Board presentation. Stanizzi also reported that a state economic development bond bill signed by Gov. Maura Healey includes three Wayland earmarks: $100,000 for further Route 20 master plan work, $100,000 toward a part-time economic development staff position, and a provision tied to MBTA Communities compliance. The committee will meet with DPW Director Tom Holder after Thanksgiving on a Route 20 sidewalk and curb-cut design now estimated at roughly $800,000, up from $600,000. Resident Jean Milburn urged the panel to take up accessory dwelling units, saying the town's existing bylaw is now preempted by state law and that ADUs offer density "mostly invisible" from the street.