Wayland EDC advances playground, splash pad memo to Select Board

WAYLAND — August 28, 2025 — Wayland's Economic Development Committee votes 5-0 to send a town center playground and splash pad plan to the Select Board. The committee approved forwarding a nine-page memo drafted by member David Villari and Vice Chair Katie Noble Harris recommending a playground, splash pad, amphitheater and pavilion near the Wayland Town Center, with a 2027 installation target. Chair Rebecca Stanizzi said Select Board liaison Tom Fay backed the playground but flagged splash pad maintenance concerns, and any build will require sign-off from Raytheon's licensed site professional, John Drabinski, under an activity and use limitation on the parcel. Member Jeff Vecchio said an incoming town center limited partner could likely fund the playground outright — "a very small check for them to write" — and urged the memo recommend the full package rather than "any combination thereof." The committee plans a feedback booth at the Oct. 5 Wayland Festival.