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Local Comprehensive Plan_Digital Version_June 2025
Local Comprehensive Plan Town of Barnstable DRAFT 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan Town of Barnstable DRAFT 2025 Table of Contents Introduction Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Letter from the Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Executive Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Community Engagement & Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Community Vision Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Existing Conditions Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 1 Natural Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Groundwater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Marine Waters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Freshwater Lakes and Ponds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Wetland Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Wetland Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Open Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Habitat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 2 Built Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Land Use and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Water Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Wastewater Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Stormwater Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Transportation Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 Public Services & Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90 3 Community Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94 Cultural Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94 People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102 Local Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110 Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121 Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132 3Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Introduction Key Issues & Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 4 Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .142 Fact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .158 Goals & Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166 5 Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171 Fact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176 Goals & Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177 6 Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181 Fact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188 Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .196 Goals & Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200 7 Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207 Fact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .214 Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219 Goals & Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .222 8 Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .227 Fact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .232 Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .237 Goals & Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238 9 Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .241 Fact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248 Goals & Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .253 10 Culture, Heritage, & Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .259 Fact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .266 Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .271 Goals & Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .272 4Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Introduction Climate Resiliency Highlights Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152 Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173 Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .189 Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .211 Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .231 Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .247 Culture, Heritage, & Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .269 Public Health Highlights Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154 Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175 Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .183 Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215 Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .229 Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251 Culture, Heritage, & Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .261 Future Land Use Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276 Targeted Action Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .279 Plan Implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .307 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .308 Current Issues & Opportunities: Summary of Expert Presentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .312 Works Cited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .328 5Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Introduction LOCAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE • Wendy Northcross (Chair) • Lindsey Counsell (Vice Chair) • Avery Revere (Clerk) • Asia Graves • Robert Twiss • Amanda Converse (Former Clerk) • Mark Hansen • Meaghan Mort • Frances Parks • Katia DaCunha • Cheryl Powell • Susan Rohrbach • Jennifer Williams • Alyssa Chase • Carlos Barbosa • Steven Costello (Former Chair) • Felicia Penn (Former Chair) Acknowledgements Thank you to all Town Departments that contributed to this plan, each of the subject matter experts, and the numerous individuals and organizations that provided public input and guidance throughout this process . TOWN STAFF • James Kupfer, Director of Planning and Development • Kyle Pedicini, Assistant Director of Planning and Development • Kate Maldonado, Senior Planner • Corey Pacheco, Senior Planner • Elizabeth Jenkins (Former Director of Planning and Development) TOWN MANAGER • Mark S. Ells 6Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Introduction TOWN COUNCILORS Current Town Councilors • Craig Tamash • Kris Clark • Matthew Levesque • Felicia Penn • Gordon Starr • Paula Schnepp • Seth Burdick • Betty Ludtke • Kristin Terkelsen • John Crow • Paul Neary • Jeffrey Mendes • Charles Bloom Former Town Councilors • Nikolas Atsalis • Jennifer Cullum • Jessica Rapp Grassetti • Eric Steinhilber • Tracy Shaughnessy • Paul Cusack CONSULTANTS Barrett Planning Group LLC • Judi Barrett, Owner & Managing Director • Jill Slankas, Principal Planner • Alexis Lanzillotta, Principal Planner • Lily Kramer, Community Planner • Laurel Mire, Community Planner Horsley Witten Group • Jeff Davis, Senior Planner • Gabriella Spitzer, Environmental Planner Dodson & Flinker • Peter Flinker, Principal • Dillon Sussman, Senior Associate PLAN LAYOUT & DESIGN • Shea Cadrin 7Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Introduction Letter from Barnstable Local Comprehensive Planning Committee (LCPC) The Town of Barnstable Local Comprehensive Planning Committee (LCPC) wishes to acknowledge the effort and commitment from everyone who participated in this Local Comprehensive Plan update. This process began in early 2022 when 16 resident volunteers were appointed to the LCPC to help guide the town-wide master planning process. It has taken over three years to generate this plan, with a robust public engagement process that collected over 2,000 public comments from the community. Thank you to all who contributed inno- vative ideas and goals for the Town – this plan could not have been completed without the insightful feedback of our community. We also acknowledge the input of a wide array of external experts to share current trends, data and ideas for the town to consider. And we gratefully acknowledge the time and talent of our planning department who faithfully worked to achieve a plan that was responsive to the vision and values of our community. The result of this lengthy effort is a plan for the Town for the next 10+ years that is reflective of our community goals and priorities. Barnstable faces many challenges ahead including protecting water quality, adapting to future climate impacts, and promoting a year-round community. However after hearing a depth of feedback from a wide array of community stakeholders, it’s also clear that the Town also has many strengths to be protected and enhanced such as beautiful natural resources and outstanding recreational opportunities. We sincerely hope that this plan provides our present and future town leaders, and our fellow neigh- bors, with the information they need to make informed and thoughtful decisions in the years to come. 8Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Introduction The 2025 Barnstable Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP) serves as a strategic guide for the future develop- ment, growth, and preservation of the Town. The Local Comprehensive Plan process was steered by the Local Comprehensive Planning Committee (LCPC). The LCPC is made up of volunteer residents of the community that were appointed by the Town Manager and ratified by Town Council to better facilitate and communicate the planning process, to assure the long-term land use plan reflect the community’s needs and support a robust inclusive engagement of the greater community in this important planning effort. This three-year effort involved a collaborative public process to identify a vision, define key issues, and develop actionable steps that will guide decision making over the next 10 years. Through this vigorous community engagement process, input from local stakeholders, and a thorough review of existing conditions, the Committee crafted a comprehensive framework that addresses the unique needs and aspirations of the community. This framework ultimately created a vision and supporting goals and actions that seek to achieve balance and a commitment to a healthy, diverse community for both people and nature. What is the Local Comprehensive Plan? A Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP) defines a long-term vision and growth policy that guides the future of a Town, for an established duration, generally over the course of 10 to 20 years, that anticipates and guides development, land use, infrastructure, and resource protection ultimately defining a targeted action plan for future work and resource allocation with respect to the community’s vision, values and expectations. The plan serves as a guide and resource for elected officials, board members, and residents when considering future decisions including policies related to development, infrastructure, the economy, and resource protection. The Local Comprehensive Plan acts upon the Town’s mission statement “to protect the Town of Barnstable’s quality of life and unique character, engage our citizens, and enact policies that respond to and anticipate the needs of our community.” The LCP defines strategic land use actions and goals as well as provides a clear picture of where additional study or special regulation is necessary to manage complex issues and challenges and is a guide for allocating capital funding and prioritizing town projects. Executive Summary 9Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Executive Summary Introduction The Introduction provides an overview of what the Local Comprehensive Plan is and how it was developed including: • Acknowledgments • Letter from the Committee • Executive Summary • Community Engagement & Process Community Vision Statement Building upon key themes of public input presented over months of community outreach, the community Vision Statement expresses shared values for future development and resource protection and represents a growth policy for the community. Existing Conditions Report The Existing Conditions provides a snapshot in time with a foundation of data and narrative for the current status of the Town which informed future goals established herein. The Existing Conditions is organized by the following topics: 1. Natural Systems 2. Built Systems 3. Community Systems Key Issues & Opportunities Building upon the Existing Conditions and the community Vision Statement, the Key Issues and Opportunities takes a deeper dive into specific topics to identify what has been achieved since the prior LCP, and includes topic-specific issues and needs as well as goals and actions. Each topic includes an illustrative Fact Sheet highlighting significant data points. The Key Issues & Needs is organized by the following topics: 4. Land Use 5. Housing 6. Natural Resources 7. Infrastructure 8. Facilities 9. Economic Development 10. Culture, Heritage & Design How is the Local Comprehensive Plan Structured? The Barnstable Local Comprehensive Plan was completed in two phases commencing with coordi- nation and amassing Existing Conditions with data and narrative for the current status of the Town through detailed data analysis and interviews with stakeholders and town departments. Engagement, together with existing conditions produced a well rounded land use Vision Statement. These portions complete Phase I. Phase II uses Phase I as a foundation of information from which the Committee focused on specific topic issues and needs. Ultimately, a Targeted Action Plan was developed with topic and location specific land use goals and actions to be achieved over the next 10 years. The structure of this docu- ment is further defined below. 10Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Executive Summary Future Land Use Maps Building upon the Town’s Current Land Use Map the Future Land Use Maps reflect on what Barnstable should be over the next 10 years. The Future Land Use Map is organized as two maps: the Regulatory Areas Map identifies future land use types geographically across Town and the Study Areas Map identifies four areas for further land use study. In developing the Future Land Use Maps, the LCP Committee reflected upon land use types and corresponding areas defined on the Current Land Use Map with consideration of areas of potential change verses areas of stability. An interactive version of the Future Land Use Map was developed to obtain public comment which the Committee reviewed and considered in finalizing the maps. Targeted Action Plan Building upon the Existing Conditions, Key Issues and Opportunities and feedback from the community for priority efforts, the Targeted Action Plan provides topic and location specific goals and actions to be achieved over the next 10 years including responsible parties, potential funding sources, and identifies how each action relates to the various chapter topics. The Targeted Action Plan is organized by the following topics: Land Use, Housing, Natural Resources, Infrastructure, Facilities, Economic Development, Culture, Heritage & Design. Plan Implementation The Implementation plan defines the process for which the goals and actions defined within the Targeted Action Plan will be controlled through the Town Council in collaboration with Town Boards, Committees, and Commissions, Town Departments, as well as other Town organizations. Appendix The Appendix provides summaries for each of the presentations offered by Town staff and regional subject matter experts which informed the Key Issues & Needs and includes a glossary as well as sources. Together these sections create one Local Comprehensive Plan for the Town of Barnstable to guide land use policy and discussion for the next 10 years. While the Plan was written by a committee of volunteers who served the Town for over three years, the Plan was truly developed by the thousands of public comments, emails, survey responses, etc. that make this plan unique to the Town of Barnstable. 11Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Executive Summary Community engagement is a vital component of a healthy, consensus based Local Comprehensive Plan that seeks to represent the community as a whole. The Local Comprehensive Planning Committee (LCPC) established an Engagement Plan that sought robust input across the Town’s seven villages. The Committee commenced the process by establishing an interactive website to serve as a clearinghouse for important documents and a resource for promoting key events and efforts. Through this website, the public was able to offer comment directly to the LCPC and could subscribe to a virtual newsletter that announced upcoming meetings and events, and highlighted opportunities for public comment. With over 1,000 individuals subscribed, this newsletter served as a vital resource for disseminating relevant information to the public in a timely manner. Engagement opportunities were coordinated in person throughout the three-year process in various locations around Town. LCP Community Meeting. Kyle Pedicini Community Engagement & Process 12Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Engagement & Process Phase I: Community Visioning and Outreach Over the course of nine months, the Committee, in coordination with Planning & Development staff, facilitated meetings with village and civic associations, the business community, hosted coffee hours throughout town, and staffed information tables at Town gatherings, sporting events, and holiday func- tions. The LCPC posted interactive posters at Barnstable High School, Hyannis Youth and Community Center, and the Barnstable Adult Community Center seeking visioning comments. The LCPC hosted a Winter Open House at the Hyannis Youth and Community Center seeking community input on topics including, but not limited to, housing, jobs, open space, transportation, energy and water and providing opportunity for the public to share their ideas for Barnstable’s future. The Committee crafted a survey to gather information on town strengths, weaknesses, and community priorities. A direct mailer was sent to all residents in Town and a virtual mailer went to all students of Barnstable Public Schools. During this process the LCPC received 1,584 survey responses. The Committee hosted two “Bringing it Together” workshops (one virtual and one in person) to present key themes of public input for further review and discussion among attendees as an initial step in coordinating a community vision. Key Themes from Engagement • Protect water quality in all forms—harbors, rivers, ponds, drinking water • Protect the environmental resources that Barnstable maintains including open space, beaches, lakes, ponds, habitat, trails, vistas, etc. • Preserve and enhance tree canopy throughout town but especially in Hyannis • Protect and enhance visitor appeal, such as quaint Cape Cod features, beaches, open space, etc. • Preserve diverse community character that is unique to each village • Preserve historic structures, features, and ways that provide Cape Cod charm • Expand housing options and opportunities at affordable prices for all ages • Reduce traffic congestion and speeding; improve pedestrian safety • Provide more opportunities for children and families—recreation, village events, medical access, specialized education, etc. • Create more year-round employment opportunities, especially in the Blue Economy and job sectors that provide living wages • Improve safety in village centers and supportive health and human services for those in need • Foster opportunities to form community connections and get to know neighbors • Increase proactive communication and transparency from town government 13Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Engagement & Process Phase II: Community Goals and Actions Over the course of seven months, the Committee, in coordination with Planning & Development staff, facilitated topic specific public meetings to obtain insight for current and anticipated needs and best practices related to Land Use, Housing, Natural Resources, Infrastructure, Facilities, Economic Development, and Culture, Heritage and Design with feedback from Town staff as well as regional experts. Reflecting upon feedback from the subject matter experts, the Committee coordinated goal statements and strategies for each of the chapters. Draft chapters for Land Use, Housing, Natural Resources, and Infrastructure and Facilities were posted and village meetings were coordinated to obtain initial feedback for the proposed draft goals, policies and strategies. The Committee updated the Town’s Future Land Use Map by reviewing the 2010 Strategic Planning Areas Map and coordinating further analysis of current land use types including Residential and Rural areas, Regional Economic Center, Downtown Hyannis/Growth Incentive Zone, Village Centers, Commercial Nodes, and Maritime Areas considering areas of anticipated change and areas of anticipated stability. A draft Future Land Use Map was published online via an interactive map and hard copies were distributed around Town for public comment. Ultimately, the LCPC developed two Future The outreach and feedback process concluded with the development of a Vision Statement that expresses shared values for future development and resource protection, and represents a growth policy for the community. A draft Vision Statement and the draft Existing Conditions Report with data, narrative and supporting maps for the Town’s natural, built, and community systems were published online for public comment. The Committee considered public comment and finalized the Existing Conditions Report and the Vision Statement which served to guide the goals established with Phase II of the Local Comprehensive Plan update. LCP Community Meeting. Kyle Pedicini 14Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Engagement & Process Land Use Maps organized by regulatory areas, (existing areas identified to be maintained) and study areas (proposed areas identified for further study). Building upon the goal statements and strategies for each of the chapters, the Future Land Use Maps, insight from community visioning, LCP Committee workshops, past plans, and feedback from Town staff the Committee developed a Targeted Action Plan with topic and location specific actions to be achieved over the next 10 years for each of the chapters. A full draft of the Local Comprehensive Plan was posted and community meetings were coordinated to obtain public comments for the Local Comprehensive Planning Committee’s review and consideration in finalizing the Plan. Throughout this process, the LCPC facilitated meetings with village and civic associations and kept the community engaged and informed taking advantage of outreach opportunities including coordinating informational inserts within the Town’s residential tax bill and the census mailing. LCP Community Meeting. Kyle Pedicini 15Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Engagement & Process Community Events September 2022 • 9/20—Cotuit Civic Association Freedom Hall 976 Main Street, Cotuit @7:00 PM • 9/22—55+ Community Safety Day Barnstable Adult Community Center 825 Falmouth Road, Hyannis 11:00 AM–2:00 PM • 9/27—Youth Commission via Zoom @6:30 PM October 2022 • 10/11—Barnstable Village Association St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 3055 Main Street, Barnstable @7:00 PM • 10/16—Hyannis Open Streets Downtown Hyannis @12:00 AM–4:00 PM • 10/22—Youth Soccer Cape Cod Community College, Barnstable @9:00–11:00 AM • 10/28—Coffee with a LCPC Member (Osterville Public Library, 43 Wianno Avenue) @9:00 AM • 10/31—Halloween on Main Street Hyannis, 4:00–7:00 PM November 2022 • 11/1—Osterville Civic Association Osterville Public Library 43 Wianno Avenue, Osterville @7:00 PM • 11/1—Marstons Mills Civic Association via Zoom @6:00 PM • 11/4—Coffee with a LCPC Member Fig Tree Cafe @9:00 AM • 11/7—Hyannis Port Civic Association via Zoom @7:00 PM • 11/8—Greater Hyannis Civic Association Steamship Authority Terminal Building Conference Room, 123 School Street, Hyannis @6:30 PM • 11/11—Coffee with a LCPC Member Chez Antoine @9:00 AM • 11/14—Centerville Civic Association via Zoom @7:00 PM • 11/18—Coffee with a LCPC Member Sturgis Library 3090 Main Street, Barnstable @12:00-1:00 PM • 11/23—Red Hawks Rolling Rally Downtown Hyannis Village Green @12:00 PM • Comment Walls: Posted at the Barnstable High School, Hyannis Youth and Community Center and online via an interactive map seeking insight for the following prompts: If you had one day, where would you take a visitor? What is your favorite road to travel down? If you could add one thing to Barnstable what would it be? • Town-Wide Survey: Coordinated survey to obtain insight for community vision. A post card announcing the survey was mailed to all residents. 16Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Engagement & Process December 2022 • 12/3—Holiday Love Local Fest Hyannis Village Green + Harbor Overlook @10:00 AM–4:00 PM • 12/6—West Barnstable Civic Association West Barnstable Community Building 2377 Meetinghouse Way @7:00 PM • 12/7—Winter Stroll Main Street Barnstable Village @5:45–8:00 PM • 12/13—Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District (BID) @8:30 AM • 12/13—Osterville LCP Workshop Osterville Historical Museum, 155 Bay Road, Osterville @7:00–9:00 PM • 12/14—Winter Open House Hyannis Youth and Community Center, Shepley Room @4:00–7:00 PM January 2023 • 1/12—Marstons Mills Civic Association Liberty Hall, 2150 Main Street, Marstons Mills @7:00–9:00 PM • 1/17—West Barnstable Civic Association West Barnstable Community Building 2377 Meetinghouse Way @6:30 PM • 1/18—Centerville LCP Workshop Centerville Recreation Buidling 524 Main Street, Centerville @7:00 PM • Committee Interviews: Coordinated videos in English and Portuguese to promote participation in the community survey and the overall Local Comprehensive Plan process. February 2023 • 2/7—Barnstable Association for Recreational Shellfishing LCP Workshop West Barnstable Community Building 2377 Meetinghouse Way @7:00 PM • 2/28—Bringing It Together Workshop (Option #1) to be held remotely @12:00–1:15 PM March 2023 • 3/1—Bringing It Together Workshop (Option #2) Barnstable Adult Community Center 825 Falmouth Road, Hyannis @5:00–7:00 PM April 2024 • 4/2—Barnstable Village Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church, 3055 Main Street, Barnstable @6:00 PM • 4/3—Cotuit Village Freedom Hall, 976 Main Street, Cotuit @6:00 PM • 4/9—Centerville Village COMM Fire District, 1875 Falmouth Road, Centerville @6:00 PM • 4/10- Marstons Mills Village Liberty Hall, 2150 Main Street, Marstons Mills @6:00 PM • 4/24—Osterville Village Osterville Public Library, 43 Wianno Avenue, Osterville @6:00 PM • 4/29—West Barnstable Village West Barnstable Community Building, 2377 Meetinghouse Way, West Barnstable @6:00 PM • 4/30—Hyannis Village Barnstable Adult Community Center, 825 Falmouth Road, Hyannis @6:00 PM 17Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Engagement & Process July 2024 • Informational LCP Handout: Distributed within residential tax bills October 2024 • 10/1—Cotuit Civic Association Cotuit Library 871 Main Street, Cotuit @7:00 PM November 2024 • 11/12—West Barnstable Civic Association West Barnstable Community Building, 2377 Meetinghouse Way, West Barnstable @7:00 PM December 2024 • Informational LCP Handout: Distributed within Census mailer April 2025 • 4/15—Villages of Barnstable & West Barnstable West Barnstable Community Building, 2377 Meetinghouse Way, West Barnstable @6:00 PM • 4/30—Villages of Marstons Mills & Cotuit Liberty Hall, 2150 Main Street, Marstons Mills @6:00 PM May 2025 • 5/5—Villages of Osterville & Centerville Osterville Village Library 43 Wianno Avenue, Osterville @6:00 PM • 5/8—Town-Wide Barnstable High School Performing Arts Center 744 West Main Street, Hyannis @6:00 PM 18Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Engagement & Process Local Comprehensive Planning Committee Meetings • Meeting #1 Wednesday, June 29, 2022 • Meeting #2 Thursday, August 25, 2022 • Meeting #3 Thursday, September 22, 2022 • Meeting #4 Thursday, October 27, 2022 • Meeting #5 Thursday, December 8, 2022 • Meeting #6 Thursday, January 26, 2023 • Meeting #7 Wednesday February 22, 2023 • Meeting #8 Thursday March 30, 2023 • Meeting #9 Thursday May 11, 2023 • Existing Conditions Sub-Committee Meeting #1 Thursday May 25, 2023 • Existing Conditions Sub-Committee Meeting #2 Wednesday May 31, 2023 • Existing Conditions Sub-Committee Meeting #3 Wednesday June 14, 2023 • Meeting #10 Thursday June 22, 2023 • Meeting #11 Thursday October 12, 2023 • Meeting #12 Thursday November 30, 2023 • Meeting #13 Thursday December 14, 2023 • Meeting #14 Thursday January 25, 2024 • Meeting #15 Thursday February 8, 2024 • Meeting #16 Thursday February 22, 2024 • Meeting #17 Thursday March 14, 2024 • Meeting #18 Thursday March 28, 2024 • Meeting #19 Thursday May 9, 2024 • Meeting #20 Thursday May 30, 2024 • Meeting #21 Thursday July 25, 2024 • Meeting #22 Thursday August 22, 2024 • Meeting #23 Thursday September 12, 2024 • Meeting #24 Thursday September 26, 2024 • Meeting #25 Wednesday October 30, 2024 • Meeting #26 Thursday January 23, 2025 • Meeting #27 Thursday February 13, 2025 • Meeting #28 Tuesday February 25, 2025 • Meeting #29 Tuesday May 20, 2025 19Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Engagement & Process Community Vision Statement The town of Barnstable is a vibrant and diverse community where people and nature thrive together . We are committed to creating a healthy, safe, inclusive, and equitable place for all residents and to restore, enhance and protect our natural resources for future generations . 20Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Vision Statement To achieve our vision, we will proactively: »Protect, restore and enhance priority natural habitats, salt and fresh water resources, and open spaces. »Maintain healthy coastal ecosystems along with commercially viable harbors. »Protect and improve the quality and quantity of our drinking water. »Prepare and adapt to climate impacts including sea level rise. »Reduce our environmental footprint by investing in low-carbon energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and better managing our waste. »Build on our outstanding recreational opportunities and enhance access to open spaces while also ensuring no environmental harm as recommended by the open space and recreation plan. »Preserve, enhance and celebrate the unique historic character and sense of place of the town and each of its seven villages. »Promote a diverse economy that supports living wages and local businesses and restores, enhances and protects the natural environment. »Commit to providing affordable and attainable year-round housing options. »Provide access to high-quality public education, healthcare, human and social services, and a healthy environment. »Foster an inclusive community that values diversity. »Create a healthy, safe community, and care for those in need. »Incentivize redevelopment and encourage new development toward locations with adequate infrastructure and away from environmentally sensitive areas town-wide. »Enable people to travel safely and effi- ciently by the mode of their choice. »Build essential infrastructure that is resilient, adaptable, and sustainable and minimizes its environmental impact. »Increase transparency of the local government so that it can make effective decisions ground in citizen input and implement necessary changes efficiently. »Strengthen community connections and communication town-wide and seek opportunities for collaboration with neighboring towns. »Recognize and build upon previous efforts by citizens and the Town to make Barnstable the best that it can be. 21Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Vision Statement Existing Conditions Report The Existing Conditions Report provides a snapshot in time for the Town’s natural, built and community systems . Drafted between 2022 and 2023 the Existing Conditions was achieved as an initial effort in updating the Town’s Local Comprehensive Plan providing a foundation of data and narrative that helped to inform goals for the future of Barnstable over the next 10 or so years. 22Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Existing Conditions Report The Town of Barnstable is rich in natural systems and centers around water, water-dependent resources, and habitat. High-quality natural systems are part of the Town’s attraction for residents and visitors, but they are also susceptible to pollution from various land uses and activities and are increasingly vulnerable to changes in climate.1 Barnstable residents’ and visitors’ continued appreciation of natural systems requires active stewardship, protection, and restoration of clean water and ecosystems. Groundwater Overview Groundwater on Cape Cod is derived solely from precipitation and the aquifer deposits are generally very permeable, making them ideal for development of high-yielding water supplies, but simultaneously vulnerable to contamination from land uses in their watersheds. The Cape Cod aquifer is designated as a Sole Source Aquifer under the Safe Drinking Water Act by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a desig- nation that requires Federally funded projects to assess project impacts to the aquifer.2 In general terms, the groundwater system can be described as the saturated zone of water-bearing glacial deposits beneath the land surface. The upper surface of this zone, known as the water 1 Cape Cod Regional Policy Plan, Cape Cod Commission, February 22, 2019, 27. 2 Cape Cod Regional Policy Plan, Cape Cod Commission, Effective February 22, 2019, 28. table, lies at depths beneath the land ranging from more than 100 feet in the highest part of the moraine to 0 to 10 feet along the shores and in the vicinity of ponds and lakes. In cross- section, the groundwater body is shaped like a lens, with the highest elevations of the water table being found along the groundwater divide, which in Barnstable roughly parallels the east- west axis of the moraine. Groundwater flows from the higher water table contours along the divide north and south to the lower elevations near the town’s shores and beaches. The USGS, in cooperation with the Town of Barnstable and MassWildlife, is assessing the potential effects of new water-supply with- drawals on groundwater levels in the Hyannis Ponds Wildlife Management Area on Cape Cod. A groundwater-flow model is being used to simulate the effects of several possible with- drawal and wastewater-return flow scenarios developed by the Town of Barnstable and MassWildlife on the groundwater-flow system. The Town of Barnstable is evaluating options for developing new groundwater supplies to meet future needs for potable drinking water, both in Hyannis, which is served by the Water Supply Division of the Barnstable Department of Public Works, and throughout the rest of Barnstable, which is served by the Barnstable, West Barnstable, Cotuit, and Natural Systems1 23Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills (C.O.M.M.) Water Districts.3 Groundwater Protection Barnstable’s public drinking water supply source is its underground sole source aquifer. Public wells draw water from wide surface areas known as Zones of Contribution to Public Water Supply wells, which occupy approximately 30 percent of the land area of the Town. Map 1.1 (page 53) shows Wellhead Protection Areas, which include Massachusetts 3 Town of Barnstable Source Exploration Report (Volume I), by Weston & Sampson, April 2021. Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Approved Zone I, DEP Approved Zone II, and Interim Wellhead Protection Areas (IWPA). DEP Wellhead Protection Areas Zone I means the protective radius required around a public water supply well or wellfield. For public water system wells with approved yields of 100,000 gpd or greater, the protective radius is 400 feet. A Zone II is a wellhead protection area that has been determined by hydro-geologic modeling and approved by the Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Drinking Water Sandy Neck Beach, Alora Lanzillotta 24Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Program (DWP). In cases where hydro-geologic modeling studies have not been performed and there is no approved Zone II, an Interim Wellhead Protection Area (IWPA) is established based on DEP DWP well pumping rates or default values. Certain land uses may be either prohibited or restricted in both approved (Zone II) and interim (IWPA) wellhead protection areas. The Base Zoning map (Map 1.2 – page 54) shows Barnstable’s three groundwater protec- tion overlay districts: • Wellhead Protection Overlay District • Groundwater Protection Overlay District • Aquifer Protection Overlay District The Aquifer Protection Overlay District consists of all areas of the Town, except those areas within the Groundwater and Wellhead Protection Overlay Districts. The Wellhead Protection Overlay District consists of the area within the five-year time of travel zone to existing, proven future and potential future public water supply wells. The Groundwater Protection Overlay District consists of all those areas within Zones of Contribution to existing, proven future and potential future public water supply wells. Groundwater Pollution The Town’s groundwater system, like the whole of Cape Cod, is replenished entirely by precip- itation. The level of the water table fluctuates seasonally due to evaporation, precipitation, and water withdrawals. A major threat to the aquifer is from contamination due to land use impacts, primarily from wastewater disposal (individual on-site septic systems).4 Barnstable’s Community Preservation Committee (CPC) 4 Town of Barnstable Open Space and Recreation Plan, 2018, 40–41. 5 Katie Servis, Airport Manager; and Dan Santos, Director of Department of Public Works. continues ongoing conversations with the Fire/ Water Districts about wellhead protection and open space acquisition, in order to meet the goal from the 2010 LPC that no development should occur within a 400 foot radius of a future public supply well and lands within the 400 feet of wells should be acquired whenever possible. Additionally, the Cape Cod Gateway Airport has achieved efforts to reduce the concentration of PFAS in groundwater and to prevent the continued migration of the PFAS groundwater plume. In Fall of 2020 the Airport mitigated PFAS-effected soils by capping the soils and installing monitoring wells to monitor mitigation success. Additionally, the Airport has successfully fingerprinted PFAS that is associated with Airport firefighting activities to assist in modeling plume migration; allowing for identification of Airport impacts and those impacts attributed from other off-Airport industrial sites not associated with Airport activities. The Town recently constructed a groundwater treatment plant at the Maher Wells that utilizes greensand filtration, advanced oxidation, and granular activated carbon (GAC) to remove PFAS from groundwater and provides the Hyannis Water System with drinking water that meets state and federal drinking water standards.5 Marine Waters Overview Marine and shoreline systems on Cape Cod include open ocean, sounds, estuaries and coastal embayments, beaches, dunes, and salt marshes. Marine and coastal waters are vitally important across the Cape and specifically in Barnstable, supporting rich marine life and complex ecosystems such as shellfish habitat 25Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems and spawning grounds for fish, as well as recre- ational opportunities for fishing and boating. Salt water embayments and salt marshes are particularly important in Barnstable, serving as spawning grounds and nurseries for a great variety and quantity of marine life and regulating the environment through carbon sequestration. Local aquaculture and fishing industries rely on these resources to stay in business. Dunes, barrier beaches, and salt marshes provide storm protection to coastal banks and properties and provide habitat for wildlife. Our marine waters and shorelines also help define who we are as a community, shaping our character, adding to our beauty, and attracting visitors from all over the world. In brief, the sustained health of our marine waters and other coastal resources is critical for our environment, our economy, and our way of life. The Town completed a Coastal Resources Management Plan focused on the Three Bays and Centerville River Systems over 13 years ago (2009). It covers, among other things, marine services and facilities such as marinas, moorings, and other boating access; fisheries and aquaculture; natural resources such as water quality and plant and wildlife biodiversity; and potential impacts of sea-level rise. The Town’s Hazard Mitigation Plan, recently updated in 2022, is another important policy document for marine waters and coastal areas, emphasizing protection of barrier beach areas and coastal dunes and mitigation against flooding, erosion, and sea-level rise. The Town is also working to balance existing conditions and proposed expansion areas for critical coastal habitat, mooring fields, public and private navigation channels, docks and piers, with the possible intent that water dependent uses will be allowed or limited based on this data. Nitrogen and Other Threats to Estuaries and Embayments Nearly 80 percent of the Cape Cod region’s land area drains to coastal embayments and estu- aries. All of Barnstable’s watersheds that drain to the south drain to nutrient-sensitive coastal embayments and estuaries. For coastal waters, the nutrient of concern is nitrogen. Development is a major contributor of nitrogen to groundwater, either through wastewater from on-site septic systems or other sources such as fertilizer and stormwater runoff. Stormwater runoff from roads, parking lots and other impervious surfaces contains a variety of contaminants, including hazardous chemicals derived from oil, gasoline and other automobile fluids; heavy metals; fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides washed off lawn surfaces; and bacteria from animal droppings. Such pollutants ultimately travel to coastal embayments. Increased nitrogen often results in excessive algae and degradation of water quality, posing a serious threat to coastal habitat that can result in fish kills and depleted shellfisheries. In the past, local coastal embayments and estuaries were able to naturally take in and flush Veterans Park Beach, Alora Lanzillotta 26Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems out nitrogen without significant environmental impacts. However, as developed areas have increased, the amount of nitrogen has overwhelmed nature’s ability to assimilate it. Barnstable, and most other communities across the Cape, are now required by the federal govern- ment to find ways to remove excess nitrogen from coastal embayments and estuaries. Through the Massachusetts Estuaries Project (MEP), the Town, County and Commonwealth have mapped recharge areas for all major estu- aries and embayments to identify areas where development and land use have the most impact on coastal water quality. This effort has guided the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to establish Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for nitrogen. These TMDLs are a management tool to restore and protect coastal water quality from the impact of septic systems, fertilizers, and runoff. Each embayment has a TMDL. These critical nitrogen-loading rates should not be exceeded. Where they may be exceeded, the Town is developing management strategies to reduce the nitrogen load on the embayment. MEP reports have been completed for areas across Barnstable, including: Popponesset Bay (2004), Centerville River (2006), Three Bays (2006), Lewis Bay (2008), Rushy Marsh (2008), and the Barnstable Great Marshes (2017). Map 1 .3 (page 55) shows the four embayment areas in the Town of Barnstable (Barnstable Harbor, Centerville River, Lewis Bay, and Three Bays) and their subembayments. Through its Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan, the Town has begun a town-wide Nutrient Management Plan. This plan includes an assessment process to establish wastewater alternatives to restore and protect coastal waters. Climate change can exacerbate this situation. For example, increased temperature can spur even greater algal blooms and sea level rise is a threat to natural and built coastal resources. As the Coastal Resource Management Plan is updated, the expected impacts of climate change should be front and center in setting policies and plan- ning for the future. The Town’s Hazard Mitigation Plan, Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) plan, and other planning documents are important resources for guiding marine waters sustainably in spite of changing conditions. Shellfishing & Aquaculture Aquaculture is an important aspect of Barnstable’s ecology, culture, and economy, with a particular emphasis on shellfish. Oysters, quahogs, softshell clams, mussels, and other bivalve species filter our coastal waters to remove algae, cleaning up the water. They also provide food for other marine animals and are a harvestable product for our commercial shell- fishing industry. Recreational harvest of shellfish in Barnstable has been a treasured pastime for Cape Cod residents and visitors for hundreds of years. The Town of Barnstable Natural Resources team is responsible for sustainable management of this vital marine resource. Shellfish are abundant in the shallow, sheltered coastal embayments in Barnstable. Clams, both soft-shelled and hard-shelled, scallops and oysters can be found in the saltwater What is a TMDL? A TMDL is the maximum amount of a pollutant that a body of water can receive while still meeting water quality standards. 27Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems embayments and along the shore. Cotuit oysters, cultivated since the mid-19th century, are internationally renowned delicacies. Shellfish resources require pristine water quality to thrive in the quantities necessary to support these activities. Road runoff is the principal cause of closure for shellfish beds and swimming areas. Many existing stormwater drainage systems that discharge directly to coastal areas have been prioritized for remediation. The Town actively monitors water quality in shell fishing areas and maintains a map of open and closed areas. Marinas And Harbors Town landings and ways to water are a vital part of Barnstable’s marine infrastructure and support a variety of commercial and recreational activities. The Town operates four marinas, two in Hyannis (Bismore Park and Gateway), one in Marstons Mills (Prince Cove) and one in Barnstable (Barnstable Harbor Marina). In 2022, the Town issued 2,519 mooring permits. As the year-round and seasonal population has grown, these resources are more heavily used and some show the stress of this heavy use. Moorings and marinas are in high demand in town, and on-going management issues include increasing the full utilization of existing mooring permits to increase access to waterways and managing the environmental impacts of moorings and marinas. The Town maintains and regularly updates an inventory of public and private uses in its harbors and needed repairs. The Town is also actively implementing and updating its Comprehensive Dredge Plan, adopted July 2017. Historically, the Town had independently permitted and performed dredging on a site-by-site, as-needed basis. Because of the significant costs associated with this type of work, dredging oftentimes has been postponed due to other competing priorities. Consequently, this approach made it challenging to ensure that dredging is addressed in a prioritized, effective, and efficient manner. Dredge and disposal management had grown time consuming, inefficient, and costly for the Town. Through the development of the Comprehensive Dredge Plan (CDP), a complete understanding of Town-wide dredging needs and priorities were defined to implement a long-term dredging plan for a total of 31 dredge sites. The CDP prioritizes dredging needs, estimates costs, and provides additional recommendations for an effective dredging system. The identified dredge sites are divided into three categories: Category 1—Beach Nourishment Sites: Those which have previously generated beach-quality sediments suitable for the purpose of nourishing eroded shoreline areas. These sites are collec- tively permitted under a 10-year Permit issued by local, state, and federal regulatory agencies Degraded water quality can negatively impact coastal property values. Initial findings from a recent Cape Cod Commission study evaluating home prices in the Three Bays area in Barnstable indicate a 1% increase in nitrogen is associated with a decrease in single-family home sale prices in the range of 0.407% to 0.807% (average 0.61%), with a 95% confidence level. Source: Cape Cod Regional 28Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems with dredging and nourishment activities performed by the Barnstable County Dredge (BCD). This approach greatly simplifies and streamlines the required permitting process as well as the overall management required for this type of dredging project. Beach nourishment is prioritized for public coastlines but can also be used along privately owned coastlines. Category 2—Standalone Sites: Those which have previously generated fine-grained sedi- ments not suitable for nourishment purposes. These sites will be addressed as stand-alone projects since they require site specific sediment testing to confirm the appropriate disposal option(s) on a project-by-project basis. Disposal methods for stand-alone projects may include unconfined offshore disposal at the Cape Cod Bay Disposal Site (CCBDS), upland disposal or reuse, and/or daily cover or disposal at a regu- lated Massachusetts landfill facility. Stand-alone projects are not anticipated to be suitable for dredging by the BCD. Each project will therefore need to be publicly bid and performed by a private contractor. Category 3—“To-Be-Determined” Sites: Those for which sediment characteristics and associated disposal requirements could not be identified based upon review of available record information. These sites will require that hydro- graphic surveys and sediment sampling and grain size analyses be performed to determine if they are Category 1 or 2 sites. Offshore Wind Projects With Infrastructure Involving Barnstable Land under the ocean, seawater, and the space above the ocean surface are increasingly in demand for new marine uses. Changes to the Massachusetts Ocean Sanctuary Act in 2008 made renewable energy development and cable and pipeline installations possible in offshore locations, and other changes in state policies have created incentives for these development activities. At this time there are three offshore wind projects with transmission cable landfalls and infrastructure involving Barnstable. The federal government and the state have fully permitted two of these offshore wind projects. Vineyard Wind, the nation’s first commercial offshore wind project, currently under construction, already made landfall at Covell’s Beach with transmission cables buried beneath public roadways connecting to a new substation under construction off of Independence Drive. New England Wind I (formerly known as Park City Wind) is proposed to make landfall at Craigville Beach with transmission cables buried beneath public roadways connecting to a proposed substation on Shootflying Hill Road. New England Wind I is fully permitted at the federal and state levels and has not commenced construction. The Town has separate Host Community Agreements with both projects. New England Wind II (formerly known as Commonwealth Wind) is proposed to make landfall at Dowses Beach connecting to a proposed substation in West Barnstable. New England Wind II is fully permitted at the federal level; however, at the state level, the project has not commenced its permitting proceeding before the Energy Facilities Siting Board. On October 24, 2024, the Town Council voted “to oppose the New England Wind 2 project (formerly, Commonwealth Wind), as currently proposed with a landing at Dowses Beach.” Enforcement and Capacity The Town’s Marine and Environmental Affairs staff is responsible for, among many other things, the health and proper care of marine waters. Enforcement efforts are always on-going, and staff compare their work to that of the 29Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Police Department. Marine and Environmental Affairs staff have oversight of 170 miles of coastline with jurisdiction extending three nautical miles out. They also maintain 89 ways to water and four marinas. While staff reports that speed and wake enforcement is the greatest challenge, it can also be a challenge to enforce discharges (whether intentional or uninten- tional). As is true for all regulations and policies, they are only as effective as the Town has the capacity to enforce them and as residents and visitors alike are both informed and care about these issues. Freshwater Lakes and Ponds Overview The Town of Barnstable has 163 freshwater ponds, 90 of which are one acre or more. Twenty-seven ponds are greater than 10 acres and are considered “Great Ponds'' under state 6 Cape Cod Commission Open Data Hub, GIS Data, Ponds, November 23, 2022. regulations. Collectively, ponds occupy 1,912 acres within the town. The Town has 70 ponds which are at least two acres. They contain a total area of 2.9 square miles (1,846 acres).6 Many of these smaller ponds are used for swimming, boating, and fishing. They also provide habitat for waterfowl and fish. Water Quality Impacts Development of water quality impacts in surface waters generally follow a progression from higher nutrient concentrations to low oxygen conditions: More nutrients create more plants (either algae or rooted plants), which in turn create more decaying material falling to the pond bottom, where bacteria decompose the dead plants. Since the bacteria consume oxygen, more decomposing plant material can remove oxygen from the water, which in turn produces chemical conditions that allow nutrients in the decomposing plants to be regenerated back into the water, creating the Table 1 .1 . Town of Barnstable Summary of Ponds Village # of Ponds Acres of Ponds # of Great Ponds (>= 10 acres) Ponds >= 1 acre Ponds >= 2 acres Barnstable 20 57 .0 3 6 4 Centerville 21 850 .7 5 10 9 Cotuit 14 93 .6 2 6 5 Hyannis 46 147 .9 3 29 19 Marstons Mills 21 562 .8 7 13 11 Osterville 19 119 .0 5 14 12 West Barnstable 22 81 .2 2 12 10 Total Protected 163 1912.2 27 90 70 Source: Cape Cod Commission GIS Open Data Hub, Ponds, November 23, 2022. 30Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems opportunity to start the cycle all over again by prompting more plant growth.7 As part of the regional aquifer system, ponds are directly linked to drinking water and coastal estuaries. Freshwater ponds are particularly sensitive to additions of phosphorus, which is associated with development and land uses close to a pond (such as wastewater, fertilizer, and stormwater sources). Buffering pond shorelines from development is an effective strategy for protecting freshwater ponds and lakes by taking advantage of the soil’s ability to adsorb and store phosphorus, thereby storing and delaying this nutrient from entering the pond.8 Freshwater lakes and ponds in the Town of Barnstable are significant scenic, recreational, and wildlife habitat resources. All the Town’s ponds and lakes intersect with the groundwater table. The majority of these water bodies are located on the outwash plain, having formed in kettle holes. They range from the 596-acre Wequaquet Lake, the third largest freshwater body on Cape Cod, to numerous smaller ponds of just a few acres in size. A Great Pond is defined as any lake or pond that is ten acres or more in size in its natural state. Permitting structures such as a dock or pier in a Great Pond is subject to review by MassDEP Waterways in accordance with MGL Chapter 91. Barnstable also has ponds identified as having characteristics of Coastal Plain Ponds, a habitat community of global significance. The Hyannis Coastal Plains Ponds—Mary Dunn, Lamson, Israel Pond and pondlets, Flintrock, Campground and Lewis Ponds—have shores and surrounding vegetation supporting habitat for significant 7 Barnstable Water Resources, Accessed January 2023. 8 Cape Cod Regional Policy Plan, Cape Cod Commission, February 22, 2019, 29–30. 9 Town of Barnstable Open Space and Recreation Plan, 2018, 42–43. populations of very rare plant and animal species. Most of these ponds are shallow, with average depths from 0.6 to 3.4 feet, and several occasion- ally dry up in the summer. The inundation/desic- cation cycle is part of the coastal plain pond shore ecology. Seasonal fluctuations in the water level help to create and maintain the special Coastal Plain Pond Shore, which provides habitat for some important rare species. However, dramatic changes in hydrology can threaten these habitats. Groundwater levels in the area of the ponds are strongly affected by nearby public water supply wells and are subject to seasonal changes in groundwater levels of three to four feet. Freshwater streams or rivers within the Town of Barnstable are shallow and are largely not navigable. Several town rivers (for example, the Bumps, Centerville, and Marstons Mills Rivers) are groundwater-fed streams running north-south across the outwash plain, receiving drainage from surrounding shallow watersheds and frequently connecting existing kettle hole ponds or lakes, thereby creating runs for herring and other anadromous fish to gain access to the ponds and lakes to spawn. In addition to the natural runs, several artificial channels have been excavated to serve as herring runs, and two are still in use: a 2,000-foot channel running from the outlet of Middle Pond to the Marstons Mills River, and channels connecting Wequaquet Lake, Long Pond, and the Centerville River. A third run is currently undergoing restoration between Lake Elizabeth and the Centerville River. Dry most of the year, these channels are opened by the Town’s Marine and Environmental Affairs Division in spring and fall during herring migration periods. They also provide a means of shunting stormwater flows to reduce high lake levels.9 31Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Freshwater Restoration Efforts Seven freshwater pond restoration projects are highlighted on the Cape Cod Commission website. Santuit Pond, located in Cotuit (Santuit), is 171 acres and has algae blooms from elevated phosphorus levels. The restoration technology is Solar Bee Recirculators and it was deployed in 2012. The results are improved lake clarity. Hamblin Pond, 115 acres, in Marstons Mills had an issue with algae blooms. An alum treatment was deployed in 2015 and the result is it is now open for swimming. Lovells Pond, 56 acres and located in Cotuit (Santuit), has algae blooms from elevated phos- phorus levels. Alum treatment was deployed in 2014 resulting in lake clarity improvement. Shallow Pond, 78 acres in Marstons Mills, has the issue of weeds which has been addressed by herbicide treatment. Schoolhouse Pond, 4 acres in Hyannisport, has algae blooms from elevated phosphorus levels. The restoration technology is Solar Bee Recirculators and it was deployed in 2016. Mystic Lake, 148 acres in Marstons Mills, has algae blooms from elevated phosphorus levels and hydrilla. The restoration technologies applied are alum treatment and mechanical treatment in 2015 and 2024. Long Pond, 51 acres in Centerville, has the issue of hydrilla (invasive species). Sonar restoration technology which is an aquatic herbicide used to control the Hydrilla was applied in 2003 and has been effective until recently. Another treatment will be necessary.10 The redesign of the fish passage from Middle Pond to the Upper Marstons Mills River in Marstons Mills is one of two projects in Barnstable. There is a total of 21 projects that are 10 Cape Cod Freshwater Ponds Restoration Projects, Cape Cod Commission. Accessed February 28, 2023. 11 Denise Coffey, Cape Cod Times. “$42.5 Million Coming to Cape For Water Resource Projects”, April 28, 2022. 12 Marstons Mills Cranberry Bog Restoration Project, Barnstable Clean Water Coalition. Accessed March 10, 2023. part of the Cape Cod Water Resources Restoration Project that is underway and funded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service.11 The Barnstable Clean Water Coalition (BCWC) has made its first land acquisition for the Marstons Mills River Cranberry Bog Restoration Project. BCWC is working to restore 55 acres of cranberry bogs to natural freshwater wetlands. This restoration would entail filling drainage ditches, grading the bog surface, removing water control structures, reconstructing stream channels, loosening the sand layer, and moving sediment. The goals of this restoration project include: • Attenuate nitrogen and reduce the nitrogen flow downriver • Improve water quality in the Three Bays Estuary • Habitat restoration • Public recreation and education opportunities12 Hydrilla is a submerged, perennial aquatic plant that has earned the illustrious title “world’s worst invasive aquatic plant.” Listed as a federal noxious weed, it can grow up to an inch a day, and can continue to survive as a free floating mat at the water surface. It was originally brought to the US as an aquarium plant in the 1950s. 32Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Invasive Species in Lakes and Ponds The Town annually manages the growth of Hydrilla and Fanwort, two invasive non-native plants in several freshwater ponds. While widespread across the country, very few municipalities in the Commonwealth are challenged with managing these invasive species. Hydrilla is present in Long Pond, Centerville (first discovered in 2001) and Mystic Lake and Middle Pond in Marstons Mills (first discovered in 2011), as well as Lake Wequaquet/Gooseberry Cove. These water bodies are also home to native and protected species of plants, mollusks, fish and other animals which makes controlling the invasive weed crucial. Fanwort, another invasive weed, is present and managed in Bearse Pond. The Town manages these species through a combination of mechanical means (diver assisted suction harvesting and mats) as well as controlled application of aquatic herbicides. Figure 1.1 (above) illustrates common sources of phos- phorus entering fresh and coastal water bodies. Pond and Lake Stewardship Barnstable has participated in the Pond and Lake Stewardship (PALs) Program that has helped establish baseline water quality. This monitoring program, established in 2001 in response to concerns over impacts of excess nutrients on freshwater ponds and lakes, provides an annual “snapshot” of the Cape’s pond and lake water quality. Presently, the Town DPW staff in collaboration with BCWC, Indian Ponds Association, Association to Preserve Long Pond, the Lake Wequaquet Protective Association, Red Lily Pond Protective Association, Friends of Long Pond Marstons Mills and volunteers monitor 39 ponds and lakes in Barnstable to provide PROBLEM Phosphorus CAUSES SOLUTION Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for all life on earth. Our bodies need phosphorus for healthy bones and teeth. Plants need phosphorus to grow, but there is a limit. When there is too much phosphorus in a pond, lake or stream, algae may bloom and plant life and fish can die as a result of eutrophication. Common sources of phosphorus entering our fresh and coastal water bodies are: Phosphorus can be reduced to harmless amounts as it travels through varying soils, which act as a filter for phosphorus. Locating development—including septic systems, lawns, and drainage from paved surfaces—away from pond shores helps to protect the quality of our fresh water bodies.Runoff from mining, farming, animal waste, and home lawn fertilizers Wastewater from our septic tanks—including human wastes, food residues, detergents, and soaps Figure 1 .1 . Phosphorus Source: Phosphorus—Common Sources of Phosphorus Entering our Fresh and Coastal Water Bodies, Cape Cod Commission. 33Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems data to be analyzed by the University of Massachusetts- Dartmouth School for Marine and Technology (SMAST). These ponds and lakes range in depth from less than a half a meter (1.6 feet) to over 19 meters (62 feet). Boats are used to access the deepest points to collect the water samples and data. During the month-long PALS snapshot event each April and August/September, water samples are collected and sent for analysis to the Coastal Systems Program lab at the SMAST. The water samples are analyzed for total nitrogen, total phosphorus, chlorophyll a, pH, and alkalinity . Associated water quality data collected at each site include dissolved oxygen, turbidity (water clarity), temperature, depth, water color and vegetative cover. This data is used to support the Town’s efforts to develop pond-specific management plans to address water quality impairments caused by excess nutrient loading. The Cape Cod Ponds Network was convened in 2022 as a response to growing concern over the health of Cape Cod's 890 freshwater ponds Coordinated through a collaboration between the Cape Cod Commission and Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC), the Network is targeted towards pond stewardship organiza- tions, but meetings are open to any interested parties. The Pond Network includes more than 40 pond organizations. 13 Town of Barnstable Online GIS Viewer, January 2023; * NHESP GIS Data shows 39 Certified Vernal Pools in the Town of Barnstable. 14 Cape Cod Regional Policy Plan, Cape Cod Commission, February 22, 2019, 30. 15 Ibid, 30. Wetland Resources Overview The Town of Barnstable has 14,352 acres of wetlands subdivided into: pond/lake (5,520 ac.), marsh (4,230 ac.), beach (3,205 ac.), wooded wetland (1,143 ac.), and cranberry bog (253 ac.). Barnstable contains 163 ponds totaling 1,912 acres, and 37 certified vernal pools.13 The Cape’s groundwater and stormwater runoff discharge to surface waters in ponds, lakes, rivers and streams, coastal waters, and wetlands. These wetland resources support much of the plant and wildlife that makes the Cape such an environmentally rich and interesting place. In addition, wetlands play a vital role in regulating the environment by absorbing and filtering storm and flood waters, providing natural removal of nitrogen, recharging the aquifer, storing carbon in wetland peat and vegetation, and providing vital habitat.14 Wetland Protection Critical to protecting wetlands and their natural functions are healthy, naturally vegetated buffers. Buffers provide important habitat as well as assist in the management of pollutants, trapping or arresting nutrients and sediment before they can flow into wetlands and clog or impair them. Increasingly important, wetland buffers preserved from development will help to store increased stormwater runoff as the climate changes and will allow wetlands to migrate as changes in groundwater levels and increased precipitation events occur.15 34Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Wetlands in the Town are shown on Map 1.4 (page 56). These include extensive areas of salt marsh. Barrier beaches, coastal beaches, dunes and bluffs are among the coastal landforms that make up the Town’s 170 miles of coastal shoreline. Freshwater wetlands also are a large-scale resource. Wetlands total approximately 13,692 acres, 21.4 percent of the Town’s surface area.16 In addition there are asso- ciated bordering vegetated wetlands, swales, creeks, and bogs. These vast and varied wetland resource areas provide a number of important ecosystem services. They provide habitat for terrestrial and aquatic plants and animals, they filter pollutants before they enter water bodies or groundwater, and in many cases they provide a buffer against storm damage. Barnstable’s extensive coastal wetlands are an important resource requiring protection. More than a quarter of Cape Cod’s salt marshes are located in Barnstable, mostly in the Great Marsh south of Sandy Neck. Salt marshes are among the most productive ecosystems on the planet, rivaling the productivity of rain forests. In addition to providing vital aquatic and wildlife habitat, salt marshes filter pollutants, and buffer shorelines from storm surge. Blue carbon represents another ecosystem service provided by salt marshes. Blue carbon is a term used to describe carbon that is absorbed by salt marsh and other coastal wetlands. Salt marsh systems absorb large amounts of carbon that otherwise would be released as carbon dioxide and contribute to global climate change. 16 MassGIS, “Wetlands”, updated 2022. 17 Mass Audubon, “Vernal Pools”, accessed January 2023. The Town of Barnstable has a Wetlands Protection Regulation (Chapter 237 of the Town of Barnstable Code) and Chapter 704 of the Town of Barnstable Code that regulates activity in the 100-foot buffer zone of wetlands. Cranberry Bogs Barnstable is home to over three hundred isolated wetlands, with many being cranberry bogs. While some are an active part of the Cape Cod economy some are abandoned or protected as open space. The Barnstable Land Trusts lists the Bridge Creek Conservation Area and Shaws Lake Trail as locations to hike, bike, or ride horses near abandoned or privately-owned bogs. These swale environments are distinct in their soil composition with excellent drainage that alternates between sand, moss, and organic matter often identified as older cranberry plants. Cranberries are native to Plymouth and Barnstable County with a growing cycle of sixteen months, with a dormant period during the freezing months. Vernal Pools Vernal pools are vulnerable wetlands found across natural landscapes from woodlands, meadows, sandplains to floodplains across the state of Massachusetts. They naturally occur in topographic depressions where snow melt, runoff, groundwater, or springs may settle temporarily.17 According to the Cape Cod Commission GIS Data Hub there are 39 certified vernal pools in the town of Barnstable, eight more than reported in the 2018 Open Space and Recreation Plan. 35Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems These small environments are unique because they have the capacity to recharge local aquifers and provide for a diverse set of animals with conditions ranging from saturated, dry, or frozen. They are home to salamanders and frogs while acting as the breeding ground for amphibian and vertebrate species like Fairy Shrimp (Eubranchipus vernalis) that thrive in environments without fish as predators. Vernal pool habitats support the life cycle of insects and amphibians while advancing the life cycle of their predators.18 Vernal pools are often at risk and undetected due to long periods of dry conditions that allow them to blend in with traditional wetland settings. The certification of vernal pools helps both developers and local conservation commissions draft plans with proper safeguards for the land and the animals that inhabit them. Identified and certified vernal pools are protected under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, and up to 100 feet past established boundaries in some cases may be protected. Volunteers may assist in the certifica- tion process through surveying and documenting of these habitats for review by the Department of Environmental Protection. Open Space Overview The open space of the Town of Barnstable is critical to the health of the natural systems, economy, and population. Open space provides habitat for the Town’s diverse species, protection of the drinking water supply as well as health benefits associated with quality of life and social wellbeing. Wooded open space provides a carbon 18 Ibid. 19 Cape Cod Regional Policy Plan, Cape Cod Commission, Effective February 22, 2019, 30. sink for mitigating the impacts of climate change, both through the storage of carbon that would otherwise be lost to the atmosphere through development, and through the carbon-absorbing capacity of trees. The beaches, farms, woodlands, and marshes of the Town provide recreational outdoor activities that attract visitors and residents and provide the necessary land and resources for agricultural activities.19 Stewardship and Collaboration Barnstable has a strong history of protecting open space, whether for water supply and habitat protection or preserving the character and beauty of the natural landscape. The Town has a state approved Open Space and Recreation Mass Audubon Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary. Alora Lanzillotta 36Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Table 1 .2 . Summary of Open Space and Recreation Land, Barnstable, MA Protected Open Space Barnstable Centerville Cotuit Hyannis Marstons Mills Osterville W. Barnstable Total Acreage Conservation Land 1194 .25 125 .13 165 .08 39 .25 215 .08 56 .22 4654 .84 6449.85 Land Bank/CPA 341 .04 73 .14 58 .98 10 .48 292 .54 0 261 .39 1037.57 Private Open Space 370 .15 42 .8 279 .65 12 .98 75 .45 270 .01 260 .36 1311.4 State Land 426 .13 28 0 50 .53 0 .35 1 .07 111 .38 617.46 Conservation Restriction Only Town 19 .47 5 .74 10 .35 0 .86 18 .1 139 .47 0 193.99 Conservation Restriction Only Private 143 .65 5 .84 31 .73 0 .69 61 .53 32 .83 46 .56 322.83 Municipal Water District (Restricted access) 136 .61 0 0 101 .14 0 0 0 237.75 Non-Municipal Water Districts 214 .37 65 .56 310 .59 17 .15 370 .08 59 .53 152 .59 1189.87 Total Protected 2845.67 346.21 856.38 233.08 1033.13 559.13 5487.12 11360.72 Recreation Land, Other Open Space and Public Land Barnstable Centerville Cotuit Hyannis Marstons Mills Osterville W. Barnstable Total Acreage Town Cemeteries 12 .15 11 .03 81 .95 21 .23 5 .75 11 .87 22 .09 166.07 Public Trusts 370 .15 42 .8 279 .65 12 .98 75 .45 270 .01 260 .36 1311.4 Town Recreation Land & Facilities 87 .82 38 .48 1 .3 138 .7 66 .45 36 .57 42 .13 411.45 Beaches & Public Landings 5 20 .14 3 .42 77 .62 8 .41 20 .52 10 .03 145.14 Municipal Use 115 .96 25 .09 43 .29 206 .5 303 .07 82 .52 102 .22 878.65 Schools 36 .91 13 .5 13 .5 57 .48 36 .8 41 .37 0 199.56 Airport 81 .57 0 0 534 .46 0 0 0 616.03 Housing Authority 16 .55 7 .61 3 .69 18 .88 16 .08 2 .25 0 65.06 Barnstable County Land & Facilities 135 .68 0 0 0 0 0 0 135.68 State Land 426 .13 28 0 50 .53 0 .35 1 .07 111 .38 617.46 Federal Land 0 0 0 1 .15 0 0 0 1.15 Total Recreation and Other 1287.92 186.65 426.8 1119.53 512.36 466.18 548.21 4547.65 Source: Town of Barnstable Information Technology, Alicia Messier, GIS Coordinator. 37Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Table 1 .3 . Community Preservation Act Projects, Open Space and Recreation, approved 2018–2021 Project Name Description Approval Date Category 3600 Falmouth Road - CR Acquisition Acquisition of a conservation restriction for open space and passive recreation.6/7/2018 Open Space CC Rail Trail - Alternate Route Study - Phase IV This complete study is required in order to submit the project for inclusion on the state Transportation Improvement Program for funding the construction of the project. 8/16/2018 Recreation 0 Bumps River Road Acquisition Acquisition of 5.92 acre vacant lot in Marstons Mills village for open space and passive recreation, education, and nature study purposes. Acquisition of this parcel will protect water quality and wildlife along Bumps River, Scudder Bay and Coombs Bog and provide connection to 27 acres of Town-owned land for opportunity for walking trails. 1/17/2019 Open Space Barnstable Hollow Field Rehabilitation of underutilized baseball field into a multi-use green space for a variety of events, functions and user groups including HP accessible entrance. 8/15/2019 Recreation Orenda - Great Marsh Road Conservation Restriction Creation and acquisition of a conservation restriction on 3 wooded lots addressed 150 and 180 Great Marsh Road and 55 Hayes Road, Centerville. 5/7/2020 Open Space 28 Falcon Road Acquisition Acquisition of 28 Falcon Road, West Barnstable for open space purposes with a conservation restriction to be held by Barnstable Land Trust. 11/19/2020 Open Space 830 Wakeby Road Acquisition Acquisition of 15.8 acres of land in Marstons Mills for open space/water resources purposes. 11/19/2020 Open Space Pickleball Courts - Osterville/W Barnstable Rd. Rehabilitation of town-owned existing tennis courts to create 10 new pickleball courts and 2 tennis courts with pickleball lines overlaid for dual purpose. 12/3/2020 Recreation Centerville Recreation Playground Renovation of the town-owned recreation resource Centerville Recreation Playground by replacing existing outdated playground equipment with ADA-compliant equipment, playground surfaces, and pathway from parking area; and landscaping. 8/19/2021 Recreation Barnstable Hollow Field Playground Renovation of town-owned recreation resource by replacing existing playground equipment with ADA- compliant equipment, walkways, playground surfaces. Installation of new seating with shade and water bottle filling station. 8/19/2021 Recreation Source: Community Preservation Coalition, CPA Projects Database 38Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Plan (2018), which includes an inventory of existing protected open space, community vision and goals, and priorities for future land acqui- sitions. Table 1.2 (page 37) reflects current values for open space and recreation lands as organized by village.20 Of the sixty square miles or roughly 38,500 acres of total land in the Town, 11,360.72 acres (29%) is protected open space and 4,547.65 acres (11%) is other public open space, recreation land or other public land. Community Preservation Act The Town of Barnstable and local land trusts work in concert to protect new properties as they become available for purchase. Community Preservation Act funds have been critical in generating dedicated funding for preserving land. Community Preservation Act (CPA) projects that have been recently approved (2018–2021) include five open space projects and five recre- ation projects in the Town of Barnstable (Table 1.3 – page 38). Level of Protection and Ownership The amount of open space in Barnstable that is 20 Town of Barnstable Information Technology, Alicia Messier, GIS Coordinator. 21 Town of Barnstable online Map and Data Viewer, acquired 1/18/2023. 22 MassGIS Data, Protected and Recreational Open Space, August 2022. protected in perpetuity is 11,469 acres. This is an increase of 524 acres from 2010 to 2022.21 Table 1.4 (to the left) lists Open Space by Level of Protection and shows 30 parcels totaling 570 acres with no open space protection. Thirty- four parcels totaling 189 acres have limited open space protection and are located in all seven villages and include school playgrounds, cemeteries, nine privately held properties with conservation restrictions (see Map 3.5 – page 136). Barnstable contains 931 parcels totaling 11,469 acres of open space protected in perpe- tuity. The vast majority of parcels protected in perpetuity are located throughout the town in all seven villages and consist of Land Bank parcels, conservation areas, water department land, fire district land, as well as private proper- ties with conservation restrictions. In addition to government entities, private land trusts have been critical in protecting open space as well. Open Space classified by owner type can be found in Table 1.5 (page 40) and illustrated in Map 1.6 (page 58). Municipally owned land accounts for 77 percent of open space parcels, followed by 10 percent for land trusts. That leaves the remaining 13 percent of open space owned by the Town of Barnstable Conservation Commission, Three Bays Preservation (managed by Mass Audubon), DCR Division of State Parks & Recreation, Department of Fish & Game, Non-Profits, Private Conservation Restrictions, and Private Recreation Clubs. The Barnstable Land Trust has protected 620 acres in the Town of Barnstable.22 It worked together with town leaders to protect large sections of Barnstable’s Great Marsh, Crocker Neck, Bridge Creek, and many smaller parcels. Table 1 .4 . Town of Barnstable, Open Space by Level of Protection Level of Protection # of Parcels Total Area (ac) None 30 570 Limited 34 189 In Perpetuity 931 11,469 Totals 995 12,228 Source: MassGIS, “Protected and Recreational Open Space", updated August 2022. 39Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Table 1 .5 . Town of Barnstable, Open Space by Owner Owner Type # of Parcels Owners Total Area (ac) County 5 Town of Barnstable Conservation Commission 90 Conservation Organization 1 Three Bays Preservation (managed by Mass Audubon)91 State 11 DCR - Division of State Parks & Recreation; Department of Fish & Game 418 Land Trust 233 Barnstable Land Trust; Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts; Mary Barton Land Conservation Trust; Mass Audubon Society; Native Land Conservancy; Orenda Wildlife Land Trust; Nature Conservancy; The Trustees of Reservations 1256 Municipal 643 Town of Barnstable 9422 Non-Profit 2 Roman Catholic Bishop of Fall River (Pope John Paul II H.S.; Cemetery)3 Private 99 Barnstable Fire Tower; Private Conservation Restrictions (CRs); Private Recreation Clubs 948 Totals 994 12,228 Source: MassGIS Data, “Protected and Recreational Open Space”, updated August 2022. Table 1 .6 . Chapter 61 Programs Program Acreage Minimum Land Use Forest Management Plan Public Access Chapter 61 10 Acres Undeveloped, Forest Land or Forest Products 10-Year Plan Required No Chapter 61 A 5 Acres Agricultural 10-Year Plan Required No Chapter 61 B 5 Acres Open Space Recreation 10-Year Plan Required No No Access Required Source: UMass Cooperative Extension and Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Chapter 61 Programs: Understanding Massachusetts Ch. 61 Current Tax Programs (n.d.). 40Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Barnstable’s on-going commitment to open space protection was demonstrated by strong public and private efforts. Other major open space needs have guided preservation efforts. Lands held by the water districts for drinking water protection represent a large portion of the unde- veloped land in Barnstable. Working landscapes, including local farms and cranberry bogs, also are an integral part of Barnstable’s landscape. Collectively, these properties represent a long history of conservation efforts in Barnstable that have produced a varied and well-connected network of open spaces throughout the Town. Chapter 61 Lands The Chapter 61 statues offer property owners preferential tax treatment to assist with keeping open spaces with natural and scenic value from being sold and developed. Individuals and households that do not develop their land, for a defined period of time, could be eligible under Massachusetts Chapter 61 Classification and Taxation of Forest Lands and Forests Products to be exempt from having to pay property taxes. Table 1.6 (page 40) contains the three programs that exist under Chapter 61 that focus on different land uses and have different regulations for stewardship. Most Chapter 61 programs require the comple- tion of a ten-year management plan reviewed by a state service forester with an inventory of the property’s resources, maps, and long-term stewardship goals, with the exception of Chapter 61B land designated as recreational. Depending on the program type, minimum acreage requirements range from five to ten acres. Chapter 61A mandates land uses, requiring an owner to produce garden or agricultural 23 UMass Cooperative Extension and Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Chapter 61 Programs: Understanding Massachusetts Ch. 61 Current Tax Programs (n.d.). products like produce, timber, animal products, or decorative plants for a minimum of two years before application.23 Chapter 61B is the final program for tax relief with the least regulation and is best for property owners who take a passive approach. Those who decide to apply for Chapter 61B can navigate between an open space or recreation designation; open space uses require a management plan, but do not mandate public access, while recreational designations do not require review plans but mandate the public or members of a nonprofit organization have access to land. If any land under Chapter 61, 61A, or 61B is intended to be converted to a non-chapter use (either sold or retained in the same ownership) while enrolled or within one fiscal year of being removed from the program, the Town has the option to match a bona fide offer to purchase the property pursuant to a defined process and associated timeline. Barnstable Village Trail, Alora Lanzillotta 41Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Greenways, Corridors, and Connectivity Over the past several decades the Town’s strong commitment to planning for open space and recreation has been guided by a corridors and greenways strategy. The priority upland greenway is the east-west oriented glacial moraine, which roughly follows Route 6. This area is valued for its hilly terrain, forest cover, and wildlife habitat. Many of the Town’s significant conservation parcels are located along this greenbelt, including the West 24 Town of Barnstable Open Space and Recreation Plan, 2018, 71-72. Barnstable, Old Jail Lane, Hathaway’s Pond, Hyannis Ponds, and Otis Atwood Conservation Areas. The Town’s two golf courses add to the significant open space acreage along the corridor. These acquisitions along Route 6 make up the “backbone” of the Town’s conservation lands and contribute to regional green infra- structure and Cape Cod Pathways goals.24 Additional conservation efforts continue to focus on smaller corridors running north-south and linking to the larger conservation greenway along the moraine. Numerous parcels along the Marstons Mills River, Centerville River, Sandy Neck Beach, Alora Lanzillotta 42Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Maraspin Creek, Little River, and other sensitive riparian corridors have been preserved. Property acquisitions along Barnstable coastlines support highly productive ecosystems, provide popular recreation opportunities, and preserve the scenic quality of the seashore. Collectively, the conservation of these parcels is essential to the health of Barnstable’s coastal resources. Sandy Neck Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) An equally important long-range objective has been the preservation of the Great Marshes in West Barnstable, which are part of the Sandy Neck Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). Areas of Critical Environmental Concern are places in Massachusetts that receive special recognition because of the quality, uniqueness and significance of their natural and cultural 25 “Barnstable Great Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, Mass Audubon, accessed January 2023. resources. Barnstable Great Marsh is an integral part of the ecologically significant 3,800-acre Sandy Neck salt marsh and barrier beach system. Along with the expansive salt marsh views, the sanctuary features two open ponds, shady oak woodlands, and numerous wildlife. Three species of owls commonly inhabit the sanctuary in winter, and five species of turtles nest here in summer.25 In the Great Marshes, large tracts are held as town conservation land; the Barnstable Land Trust, Orenda Wildlife Trust, and Massachusetts Audubon Society also have important holdings in this area. Incremental parcel acquisitions north of Route 6A by the Town and private conserva- tion groups have contributed to the preservation of this environmentally sensitive area. Sandy Neck is a tremendous asset to the town as it is a protective barrier to the north and is Sandy Neck Beach, Alora Lanzillotta 43Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems undeveloped land. Sandy Neck Park encom- passes 4,700 acres of extensive barrier beach that is accessible via boat or off-road vehicle (ORV), including the nine acres on the far west side of the Park categorized by the Assessing Department as a beach. Sandy Neck Park is part of the Sandy Neck Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) petitioned by the Towns of Barnstable and Sandwich and designated by the State in 1978. Sandy Neck Park acreage is apportioned as follows: • Land Bank/CPA—33.01 acres; • Town Beach—9.1 acres; • Municipal Property—135.95 acres; • Private Open Space (Barnstable Land Trust and The Nature Conservancy)—62.55 acres; • Conservation—remainder. Sandy Neck Beach Park allows ORV access with a permit and this activity occurs on the front beach corridor, which is 4.5 miles long. However, the ORV corridor is reduced in length for much of the summer season due to nesting Plovers and Least Terns that require protection under state and federal law. Along the south side of the property is the Marsh Trail that runs east to west. There are six trails that run north-south between the front beach and the Marsh Trail. These trails are used by hikers and are also utilized for vehicular access to Sandy Neck cottages. There are 50 privately owned cottages. Some are on private lands and those that are located on town owned land require a yearly property lease. These cottages are situated along the Marsh Trail and within the Cottage Colony, which is also where the Sandy Neck Lighthouse is located.26 26 Massachusetts Piping Plover Habitat Conservation Plan Certificate of Inclusion Request 2020 Sandy Neck Beach Park, Barnstable Massachusetts, Prepared by Marine and Environmental Affairs Division, Town of Barnstable, December 2019. 27 Town of Barnstable Open Space and Recreation Plan, 2018, 73–74. A management plan for the Park was developed in 2003. Management activities are overseen by the Sandy Neck Board with staff support from the Town Marine and Environmental Affairs Division.27 Recent efforts have been achieved focused on long-term resiliency for Sandy Neck. An initial study was conducted in 2016 to examine concep- tual alternatives which provided guidance for the predicted limit of dune erosion in 50 years highlighting that current infrastructure would need to be relocated to reduce risk of damage. Five conceptual alternatives were advanced to 30% design phase and presented to the public including. Ultimately, after consultation with the public, working group and Sany Neck Board, the Town selected the full relocation of the parking lot with enhanced dune without changes to the ORV trail to maintain current public use activities and minimize impacts to natural resources to the maximum extent possible. This project is a key success in dune protection, hazard mitigation and agency cooperation. Education and Public Awareness The Barnstable Natural Resources Program provides educational and outreach opportunities for local school groups, libraries, and community centers with such topics as wildlife, turtles, natural resource officer work, and river herring. The Natural Resource Program staff also partici- pate at various wildlife, environment, and nature expos in the Barnstable area with a traveling animal exhibit, shellfish tank, or live turtles. These classroom visits and outreach expos help the local community and visitors become aware of natural resources, wildlife, habitat, and environmental regulations in Barnstable. 44Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Parks and Recreation The Recreation Division manages the Town’s public swimming beaches, and the Hyannis and Olde Barnstable Fair Grounds Golf Courses as well as numerous public playing fields and parks. The town has implemented an environmentally sustainable land management plan at the golf courses to reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides. The town is in the process of making improvements to the golf course, including cart path improvements at Hyannis Golf Course. The Recreation Commission conducted a facilities assessment in 2012 that was used to set priorities for facilities improvements. To date, there has been progress towards each project. The Commission is considering another study to reprioritize needs identified in the 2017 Field Study. The Hyannis Youth and Community Center built in 2009 continues to serve as a focal point for many community recreation programs and services. The center is a year-round full-service facility with two skating rinks, two basketball courts, a skateboard park, a cafe, and a Youth Center with after-school programming.28 28 Town of Barnstable Open Space and Recreation Plan, 2018, 15–16. 29 Cape Cod Regional Policy Plan, Cape Cod Commission, February 22, 2019, 32. Several goals of the 2010 LCP have been accomplished in the area of Recreation with field upgrades throughout the villages including the pickleball complex in Marstons Mills that opened last year. Lombard Field improvements were completed with a combination of Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding and Capital funds. The Osterville Bay Softball Field was completed and funded through the Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The Barnstable Hollow Playground improvements project was completed which included replacing existing playground equipment with ADA-compliant equipment, walkways, playground surfaces, installation of new seating with shade and water bottle filling station. The redesign of the Centerville Playground is underway. The Town is seeking CIP funds to redesign the HYCC grounds to expand recre- ational opportunities. Habitat Overview The Southeastern Massachusetts Pine Barrens is the eco-region that the Town of Barnstable and the entire peninsula of Cape Cod are located within. Pine barrens are a globally rare habitat type composed of a unique mixture of plants and animals that thrive on the nutrient-poor soils and variable climate found on Cape Cod. Within the pine barrens eco-region, there are many and varied habitat types, including pitch pine-oak woodlands, transitional hardwood-pine forests, streams and rivers, ponds and lakes, vernal pools, shrub and forested swamps, estuaries, salt marshes, dunes, beaches, grasslands, and others.29 Cotuit Memorial Park, Alora Lanzillotta 45Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Critical Habitats Critical habitats in Barnstable have been identified by the MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP), Core Biomap, and Cape Cod Wildlife Conservation Project. Three major NHESP Core Habitat areas include and surround the Town’s three largest conserva- tion areas: West Barnstable Conservation Area, Sandy Neck barrier beach, and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Land.30 BioMap incorporates enhanced knowledge of biodiversity and habitats, improved information on the threats to biodiversity, and new under- standings of how to ensure that natural systems are more resilient in the face of climate change. Core Habitat identifies areas that are critical for the long-term persistence of rare species, exemplary natural communities, and resilient ecosystems across the Commonwealth. Core Habitat contains six components of biodi- versity conservation: Priority Natural Communities are two types of natural communities—groups of plant and animal species that share common environmental conditions and occur together repeatedly on the landscape—are priorities for protection: those that are rare and those that are exemplary. Protection, management, and conservation of these communities will help to support the persistence of characteristic common species as well as rare species throughout Massachusetts. Barnstable has seven priority natural communities covering over 5,700 acres, the vast majority of which is in the Great Marsh and Sandy Neck areas: Coastal Plain Pond Shore Community, Interdunal Marsh/ 30 Town of Barnstable Open Space and Recreation Plan, 2018, 51–52. Swale, Maritime Dune Community, Maritime Forest/Woodland, Maritime Juniper Woodland/ Shrubland, Maritime Pitch Pine Woodland on Dunes, and Salt Marsh. Rare Species Core captures areas critical to long-term conservation of our most vulnerable species and their habitats. It includes habitat for more than four hundred state-listed animals and plants protected pursuant to the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA), based on information contained in the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program (NHESP) database. Barnstable has 10,391 acres of Rare Species Core habitat, including but not limited to the Saint Mary's Episcopal Church, Alora Lanzillotta 46Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems West Barnstable Conservation Area, Hyannis Ponds Wildlife Management Area, Skunkett River Wildlife Sanctuary, Long Beach, Great Marsh, and Sandy Neck. Forest Core represents the most intact forests of Massachusetts, least impacted by roads and development. These forests provide unique forest interior habitat important for animals and plants that depend on these remote sanctuaries. Barnstable does not have any land that is classi- fied as forest core habitat according to BioMap. Aquatic Core encompasses those segments of rivers and streams and entire lakes and ponds with the highest native fish and freshwater mussel species diversity, rivers with the strongest anadromous fish runs, and occurrences of rare species. Floodplains are active parts of the stream channel and so were therefore incorporated into segments of rivers and streams. Barnstable has 2,079 acres that are classified as aquatic core habitat, mainly consisting of the interior pond areas throughout the town. Wetland Core comprises the most intact, least disturbed wetlands—those with intact buffers and little fragmentation or other stressors associated with development, like pollution. Wetlands provide irreplaceable habitat for hundreds of unique plant and animal species found nowhere else on the landscape. Barnstable has 198 acres of wetland core habitat, mainly along the Skunknett River and in Sandy Neck State Park. Vernal Pool Core includes high quality vernal pools—small seasonal wetlands that typically fill with water in the autumn or winter and dry up Massachusetts Audubon Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary, Alora Lanzillotta 47Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems by the end of summer—along with surrounding upland habitat for connectivity. These temporary wetlands provide important habitat for a variety of species, including amphibians and inverte- brates, that use them to breed. The Vernal Pool Core habitats total 1,541 acres in Barnstable and are located in Sandy Neck, Great Marsh, Bridge Creek Conservation Area, Hyannis Ponds Wildlife Management Area, Sandy Hill Pond, and the Water Department Land west of Hathaways Pond Conservation Area. The Massachusetts Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program (NHESP) docu- ments the presence of plant and animal species protected under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) across the Commonwealth. Table 1.7 (page 50) identifies plant Species of Conservation Concern (e.g., species protected under MESA or of significant regional conserva- tion concern) found in Barnstable. By protecting Species of Conservation Concern, Massachusetts communities can help ensure the long-term survival of rare and other native species and maintain a high level of biodiversity. Barnstable’s beach, dune, bay, wetland, and forest habitats support a range of fish and wildlife species. Barnstable’s barrier beaches and ponds provide important quality habitat to migratory shorebirds. Large, protected open space areas provide recreation opportunities for people and connect habitat, facilitating the movement of wildlife. However, encroachment by development, water quality impairments, invasive plants, colonization of open areas by tree and shrub growth, and rising sea levels can negatively affect fish and wildlife habitat. Table 1.8 (page 51) lists fish and wildlife species identified by the NHESP as Species of Conservation Concern in Barnstable. 31 MassWildlife and the Nature Conservancy, BioMap, November 2022. Critical Natural Landscapes Natural Landscapes support ecological processes and a wide array of species and habitats over long time frames. BioMap identifies Critical Natural Landscapes (CNLs) encompassing 15,107 acres within the Town of Barnstable.31 CNLs include large landscape blocks that are minimally impacted by development, as well as buffers to core habitats and coastal areas, both of which enhance connectivity and resilience. CNL contains several components of biodiversity conservation: Landscape Blocks comprise large areas of intact lands and waters that provide habitat for wide-ranging species and support dynamic and resilient ecosystems. These landscapes allow species to move freely among habitats and buffer smaller natural communities from development and other stressors. There is one Landscape Block critical natural landscape in Barnstable totaling 6,136 acres in the Great Marsh and Sandy Neck area. Coastal Adaptation Areas include salt marsh and other habitats along the Massachusetts coast that support unique and important habitat, rare species, and intact coastal ecosystems of global significance. These rich ecosystems provide abundant resources for species and also absorb storm surges, protecting inland infrastructure and property. Barnstable has 4,650 acres of Coastal Adaptation areas found along the northern coast of town as well as smaller areas located across the southern portion of town. Tern Foraging Habitat comprises coastal areas including sandy gravelly islands and barrier beaches, bays, lagoons, estuaries, tidal marshes, ponds, and tidal inlets that are vital to the 48Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems survival of these migratory species. Three species—the common tern, least tern, and arctic tern—are of special concern in Massachusetts, while the roseate tern is endangered. Great Marsh and Sandy Neck along the northern coast of town, along with several areas along the southern coast of town comprise the 9,513 acres of Tern Foraging Habitat in Barnstable. Aquatic Buffers include both intact lands and wetlands that help to support Aquatic Core habitats and functionality as well as provide important areas of connectivity for species that move between habitats. Pond areas including: Mystic Pond, Middle Pond, Hamblin Pond, Shubael Pond, Wequaquet Lake, Hathaways Pond, Long Pond, and Lovells Pond make up the vast majority of the 2,079 acres of aquatic buffer. Wetland Buffer comprises areas of intact habitat surrounding each Wetland Core. These protective buffers support vital wetland habitat, water quality, and other functions as well as provide important connectivity for species that move between upland and wetland habitats. Mary Dunn Pond, Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary, Skunkett River Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sandy Neck Beach area account for the 859 acres of wetland buffer areas around the wetland core areas. 32 Town of Barnstable Open Space and Recreation Plan, 2018, 14–15. Ongoing development poses a major threat to the protection of significant habitats. Of partic- ular concern is the subdivision of large tracts of land for residences, which replace native vegetation with impervious surfaces and lawns. The Town has undertaken measures that seek to address this threat, including: • Implementing the Resource Protection Overlay District which increased the minimum lot size to two acres in most areas of Town; • Promoting Open Space Residential Design subdivisions in place of grid subdivisions; and • Mapping Sensitive Habitat Areas and using the map as a guide for review and permitting development in affected areas. Habitat Restoration and Fire Prevention The Conservation Division also works on fire management improvements throughout the Town. Improvements that have taken place since 2010 include controlled prescribed burns for wildlife habitat restoration and forest fire fuel reduction, removal of dead pines on Old Stage Road, maintaining 33 acres of fields for habitat protection and fire prevention at Seabury Farms Conservation Area, West Barnstable Conservation Area, and Bridge Creek Conservation Area.32 49Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Table 1 .7 . Plant Species of Conservation Concern in Barnstable Common Name Scientific Name MESA Status Adder's Tongue Fern Ophioglossum pusillum Threatened Bristly Foxtail Setaria parviflora Special Concern Commons' Rosette-grass Dichanthelium commonsianum Special Concern Cranefly Orchid Tipularia discolor Endangered Dwarf Bulrush Lipocarpha micrantha Threatened Grass-leaved Ladies'-tresses Spiranthes vernalis Threatened Heartleaf Twayblade Neottia cordata Endangered Long-beaked Beaksedge Rhynchospora scirpoides Special Concern Maryland Meadow-beauty Rhexia mariana Endangered Mitchell's Sedge Carex mitchelliana Threatened New England Blazing Star Liatris novae-angliae Special Concern Papillose Nut Sedge Scleria pauciflora Endangered Philadelphia Panic-grass Panicum philadelphicum ssp. philadelphicum Special Concern Plymouth Gentian Sabatia kennedyana Special Concern Pondshore Smartweed Persicaria puritanorum Special Concern Purple Needlegrass Aristida purpurascens Threatened Redroot Lachnanthes caroliniana Special Concern Sandplain Gerardia Agalinis acuta Endangered Short-beaked Beaksedge Rhynchospora nitens Threatened Slender Bladderwort Utricularia subulata Special Concern Slender Marsh Pink Sabatia campanulata Endangered Stiff Yellow Flax Linum medium var. texanum Threatened Swamp Oats Sphenopholis pensylvanica Threatened Terete Arrowhead Sagittaria teres Special Concern Torrey's Beaksedge Rhynchospora torreyana Endangered Wright's Rosette-grass Dichanthelium wrightianum Special Concern Source: Rare Species Viewer, MassWildlife's Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program, acquired 1/18/2023. 50Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Table 1 .8 . Fish & Wildlife Species of Conservation Concern in Barnstable Common Name Scientific Name Taxonomic Group MESA Status Agassiz's Clam Shrimp Eulimnadia agassizii Crustacean Endangered Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Bird Special Concern Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bird Threatened Bridle Shiner Notropis bifrenatus Fish Special Concern Buck Moth Hemileuca maia Butterfly/Moth Special Concern Chain Dot Geometer Cingilia catenaria Butterfly/Moth Special Concern Chain Fern Borer Papaipema stenocelis Butterfly/Moth Threatened Coastal Heathland Cutworm Abagrotis benjamini Butterfly/Moth Special Concern Common Tern Sterna hirundo Bird Special Concern Eastern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina Reptile Special Concern Eastern Pondmussel Ligumia nasuta Mussel Special Concern Eastern Spadefoot Scaphiopus holbrookii Amphibian Threatened Frosted Elfin Callophrys irus Butterfly/Moth Special Concern Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum Bird Threatened Least Tern Sternula antillarum Bird Special Concern Long-eared Owl Asio otus Bird Special Concern Mustard White Pieris oleracea Butterfly/Moth Threatened North Atlantic Right Whale Eubalaena glacialis Mammal Endangered Northern Diamond-backed Terrapin Malaclemys terrapin Reptile Threatened Northern Long-eared Bat Myotis septentrionalis Mammal Endangered Northern Parula Setophaga americana Bird Threatened Pine Barrens Bluet Enallagma recurvatum Dragonfly/Damselfly Threatened Pine Barrens Speranza Speranza exonerata Butterfly/Moth Special Concern Pine Barrens Zale Zale lunifera Butterfly/Moth Special Concern Piping Plover Charadrius melodus Bird Threatened Purple Tiger Beetle Cicindela purpurea Beetle Special Concern Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii Bird Endangered 51Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Table 1 .8 . Fish & Wildlife Species of Conservation Concern in Barnstable Common Name Scientific Name Taxonomic Group MESA Status Scarlet Bluet Enallagma pictum Dragonfly/Damselfly Threatened Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus Bird Endangered Tidewater Mucket Leptodea ochracea Mussel Special Concern Tule Bluet Enallagma carunculatum Dragonfly/Damselfly Special Concern Water-willow Stem Borer Papaipema sulphurata Butterfly/Moth Threatened Source: Rare Species Viewer, MassWildlife's Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program, acquired 1/18/2023. 52Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Map 1 .1 . Wellhead Protection Areas 53Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Map 1 .2 . Base Zoning 54Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Åõ149 Åõ130 Åõ132 ")6A ")28 ")6A ")28 ")28 £¤6 YARMOUTH DENNIS MASHPEE SANDWICH Subembayments Embayments Barnstable Harbor Bass River Centerville River Lewis Bay Parkers River Popponesset Bay Rushy Marsh Pond Sandwich Harbor Scorton Harbor Three Bays Village Boundaries MassDOT Major Roads U.S. Highway State Route Non-numbered Road Town of Barnstable Surrounding Towns WaterSource: Town of Barnstable, U.S. Census Bureau, MassGIS, and MassDOT. 0 21Miles¯ Town of Barnstable Embayments Map 1 .3 . Embayment Areas and Subembayment Areas 55Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Map 1 .4 . Wetlands 56Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Map 1 .5 . Open Space by Level of Protection 57Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Map 1 .6 . Open Space by Ownership 58Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Systems Barnstable is comprised of seven villages, unique landscapes, and an infrastructure network to support it all. Early village-based development led to a rich local setting that continues to respond to climate resiliency measures and strives for an increased sustainability conscious- ness. The community continues to develop to meet the needs of year-round populations and tourists while adapting to the physical environ- ment as a coastal community. Land Use and Development Overview Land use and development lives at the intersec- tion of natural, built, and community systems. Decisions about land use directly impact the protection of our sensitive environmental areas and waterbodies; the most efficient, effective, and resilient locations for development, redevelopment, and infrastructure; and where people live and work, how they can travel from place to place, and how they interact with one another in community. While the most populous town on the Cape, Barnstable is home to a variety of important water, coastal, wetland, wildlife, historic, and open space resources. In fact, being the center of commerce and population on the Cape makes it especially important that Barnstable protect, preserve, and where possible restore these resources and be mindful of how devel- opment may affect them. A large part of this is promoting development and redevelopment where infrastructure and drinking water can support it, where impacts from climate change, sea-level rise, flooding, and other hazards are minimized. However, like many communities up and down the New England coast, much of Barnstable’s historic population and economic activity is located on the waterfront. Evaluation of the need to protect, accommodate, or in some cases, retreat existing development will be a future planning challenge. Current Land Use and Land Use Trends The history of land use in Barnstable is very similar to other parts of New England. Village centers initially huddled around harbors, rivers, and other natural features, with agricultural lands, and working and wild forests beyond. While this pattern of village development remains, over time, residential subdivisions, auto-oriented commercial corridors, and light industrial uses have fanned out from the tradi- tional centers. See Map 2.1 (page 90), a map of Barnstable’s traditional village centers. Map 2.2 (page 91). illustrates current land use. As can be seen, denser residential development is concentrated in the central and southeastern portions of town with more conservation lands to the north and northwest. Commercial uses are largely concentrated along the eastern end of Route 132 and in downtown Hyannis, with industrial uses mostly clustered along Independence Drive between the Cape Cod Gateway Airport and Route 6. Built Systems2 59Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Sea Captains Row, Alora Lanzillotta 60Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Barnstable consists of many different and unique land use types; these areas serve as a conceptual framework for future land use planning. Natural Areas: Natural Areas are generally the Town’s least developed and most sensitive areas. While Barnstable is the most populous and also one of the most built out municipalities on the Cape, it has a wealth of natural areas such as Sandy Neck, the Great Marshes, and other local and privately held conservation lands. Rural Development Areas: Rural Development Areas are defined by a high percentage of open lands and sparse building development patterns that contribute to the unique rural and scenic character of the region. Areas such as West Barnstable, larger lot areas around village centers, and the Town’s few remaining agricultural areas and farms all contribute to the Town’s rural character. Suburban Development Areas: Suburban Development Areas include residential neighborhoods built primarily between the 1950s and 1990s as well as automobile-ori- ented commercial development established during the same time period. A great deal of Barnstable has been developed in this manner, as seen in the many residential subdivisions and strip shopping centers. Regional Commercial Center: The Regional Commercial Center in Hyannis and Barnstable Village is characterized by larger-scale commer- cial and light-industrial uses, interspersed with higher density residential development. This area serves an important role in the regional economy, providing goods and services, year-round jobs, and economic stability and sustainability in a seasonal region. This area includes land designated as centers for industrial activity, suitable for industrial uses and emerging Sandy Neck Beach, Alora Lanzillotta Natural Areas Regional Commerce Center Rural Development Areas Bumps River Road, Alora Lanzillotta Downtown Hyannis, Tom Chartrand 61Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Transportation Areas industries. Continued multi-family development in these areas is challenging the traditional characterization of these areas as exclusively commercial and industrial. Historic Areas: Historic Areas consist of concentrations of historic structures, including local and/or National Register districts located in a small-scale village setting. These areas include not only historic buildings, but cemeteries, landscape features, and viewsheds. Maritime Areas: Maritime Areas are clusters of commercial and mixed-use development that contribute to Cape Cod’s working waterfronts and harbors. Barnstable is home to some of the most active maritime areas on the Cape, including productive fishing industries, commuter and visitor ferry service, recreational marinas, and more. Barnstable Harbor, Hyannis Harbor, and multiple other marinas and yacht clubs provide jobs, attract tourists, and are an integral part of the local culture and quality of life. Transportation Areas: Transportation Areas consist of large land areas developed with and devoted to infrastructure such as airports, and Joint Base Cape Cod. As noted, Barnstable is the most significant transportation hub on the Cape, home to the Cape Cod Gateway Airport, Cape Cod Airfield, the Steamship Authority and Hy-line Cruises, and the Hyannis Transportation Center which provides local and regional bus services as well as seasonal commuter rail and freight service. These are great resources for town residents, visitors, and residents across the Cape. Historic Areas Barnstable Historical Society, Alora Lanzillotta Maritime Areas Gary R. Brown Boat Ramp, Alora Lanzillotta Barnstable Municipal Airport (Cape Cod Gateway Airport), Alora Lanzillotta 62Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Development Trends As is true across Cape Cod, development trends have slowed significantly in recent years. Barnstable largely maintained its village-cen- tered development pattern up until World War II. After this time, as was the case in much of the country, residential development boomed, and many farms, forests, and other undeveloped lands were developed into residential subdivi- sions, commercial, industrial, institutional, and other uses. The rate of development peaked in the 1970s and 1980s, but generally continued throughout the 1990s, when building permits regularly exceeded 230 per year. The Town’s Growth Management Ordinance, adopted in 2001, sets an annual building permit limit of 96 new market rate permits and 36 new affordable units which may be adjusted should an excess number of permits be issued in a calendar year. Since 2001, increases in conservation land, more stringent policies for wetlands, floodplains, and water quality, the cost of land and construction, and limited regulatory opportunities for infill development and denser housing alternatives have all combined to dampen development activity, even though demand (particularly for housing) remains high. As the data in Table 2.1 (page 64) shows, new residential construction remains very low. In the seven years from 2015–2021, an average of just over 50 new residential units were permitted each year. This is down from an average of 118 per year in the seven years from 2000–2006 leading up to the Great Recession, and far below the peak construction rates from the 1950s through the 1990s. 33 Town of Barnstable Planning & Development New non-residential construction has seen a similar though less sharp decline, with an average of just over 12 new permits each year from 2015–2021, down from an average of just over 19 from 2000–2006. Conversely, permits for additions and renova- tions to existing homes and buildings have been booming, roughly doubling in an average year what used to be seen earlier in this century. This suggests that as new construction becomes more difficult and expensive to build, housing and development needs are being met by altering what we already have. Another way Barnstable is meeting the changing housing needs of the community is by permitting more multi-family dwellings. While the data above does not differentiate between types of residential units, Town staff have been tracking new multi-family housing development. In recent years, according to the Barnstable Department of Planning and Development, the Town has seen 356 multi-family dwellings completed in new and renovated buildings. Of these, just over 10 percent are deed restricted affordable housing, most reserved for households with incomes at or below 65 percent of the area median income (AMI). Table 2.2 (page 65) shows multi-family dwelling development in permitting through final construction since 2017.33 The multi-family dwelling developments will significantly bolster new housing opportunities in Barnstable, in terms of both housing type and affordability. 63Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Table 2 .1 . Building Permit Data Calendar Year Residential New Construction Residential Additions & Renovations Non-Residential New Construction Non-Residential Additions & Renovations 2000 201 527 19 132 2001 180 458 27 97 2002 111 573 17 119 2003 96 607 29 126 2004 67 693 17 148 2005 98 604 16 167 2006 73 607 10 157 2007 67 722 8 161 2008 50 775 21 220 2009 40 554 20 326 2010 58 681 10 226 2011 40 810 15 315 2012 50 1,066 14 325 2013 65 1,230 11 265 2014 83 1,421 17 288 2015 94 1,562 5 304 2016 58 1,796 17 217 2017 60 1,609 16 459 2018 43 1,587 19 570 2019 28 1,783 4 264 2020 33 1,664 14 239 2021 38 1,180 11 205 2022 47 635 7 402 Source: Town of Barnstable 64Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Table 2 .2 Multi-Family Unit Permit Data (snapshot in time last updated 6/15/2023) Town of Barnstable Housing Values (2017–2023) Total Units Total Affordable Units 50% AMI 65% AMI 80% AMI 100% AMI In Permitting Project is before the Town's Site Plan Review Committee or, as applicable, zoning relief is being sought 201 Main Street 95 10 -10 -- 19 Bearses Road 8 ----- Quarterra 35 Scudder Avenue 312 TBD ---- 78 North Street 11 1 -1 -- 50 Main Street 13 TBD ---- Total 439 11 0 11 0 0 Under Construction Building Permit has been issued 77 Pleasant Street 2 ----- New England Development 0 and 35 Wilkens Lane 272 36 -28 8 - Sea Captains Row Phase I 24, 28, 43, 44, 53, 56, 64 and 66 Pleasant Street and 86 South Street 46 ----- 112 West Main Street 8 ----- 63 Main Street 8 ----- 80 Pearl Street 8 ----- 1600 Falmouth Road (Bell Tower)26 3 -3 -- Residences at 850 Falmouth Road 53 10 10 --- Total 423 49 10 31 8 0 Permitted Project has come before the Town's Site Plan Review Committee and has been approved to proceed and, as applicable, project has been granted zoning relief 310 Barnstable Road 30 3 -3 -- 421 West Main Street 4 ----- 442 Main Street 5 ----- 252 Main Street 2 ----- 171 Main Street 9 ----- Sea Captains Row Phase 2 24, 28, 43, 44, 53, 56, 64 and 66 Pleasant Street and 86 South Street 14 2 2 --- 68 Yarmouth Road 8 ----- Total 72 5 2 3 0 0 65Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Land Use Management The Town has adopted many ordinances and other policies and procedures over the years to ensure that land use and development are prop- erly managed and consistent with Town goals. Zoning and Other Land Use Bylaws The Zoning Ordinance is the primary land use regulation in Barnstable. It contains provisions for land use in all zoning districts, and provisions for nonconforming uses and use variances. The Town of Barnstable’s Town Council form of government allows the Planning Board and other entities to propose changes to the Zoning Ordinance to the Town Council, which acts as the legislative body. This structure allows more frequent opportunities for zoning amendments than the traditional town meeting form of government and allows the Town to be more responsive to change. The Town’s Zoning Ordinance is complex, with a wide array of zoning districts, subdistricts, and overlay districts. Two maps (Map 2.3 Base Zoning – page 92 and Map 2.4 Zoning Overlay Districts – page 93) depict these various zones and overlays. In summary, these include: • 12 Residential Districts—These districts primarily allow single-family detached homes at various densities, but also include provi- sions for open space residential development and private-initiated affordable housing. Source: Town of Barnstable Planning & Development Table 2 .2 Multi-Family Unit Permit Data (snapshot in time last updated 6/15/2023) Town of Barnstable Housing Values (2017–2023) Total Units Total Affordable Units 50% AMI 65% AMI 80% AMI 100% AMI Final Construction Final Certificate of Occupancy has been issued 49 Center Street 5 ----- Everleigh Cape Cod 265 Communication Way 230 23 -23 -- 185 Ridgewood Avenue 8 1 --1 - Carriage House Phase 1 939 Mary Dunn Road 29 3 -3 -- 49 Elm Avenue 3 ----- 255 Main Street 10 2 ---2 57 Ridgewood Avenue 8 2 --2 - Carriage House Phase 2 939 Mary Dunn Road 29 3 -3 -- Cape Cod Times 319 and 331 Main Street 22 2 -2 -- 39 Pearl Street 9 ----- High School Road 0 and 17 High School Road 8 ----- Total 361 36 0 31 3 2 66Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems • 8 Business and Office Districts—These districts allow for a wide variety of commer- cial uses and most also allow for residential uses, including multi-family housing. • 4 Village Districts—These include special districts for Pond Village (Barnstable), West Barnstable, and Hyannis, each with very different scopes and purposes. • Marstons Mills—This district allows for mixed-use with an emphasis on retail and office uses on ground floors and residential above. • Pond Village—This district is largely meant to retain the residential and rural nature of this village, protecting freshwater pond quality, a portion of Barnstable Harbor, and the historic and scenic character of the area. • West Barnstable—This district is meant to retain a small-scale mixed-use village character, with single-family homes, small- scale retail, and offices. • Hyannis—This district is a collection of subdistricts, dividing Hyannis into zones for business, medical, office, single-family residential, multi-family residential, harbor uses, transportation uses, etc. Mixed-use is allowed in many of these subdistricts, and there are special site development and design standards that apply only within this district. • 4 Service & Distribution and Industrial Districts—These districts, as the names suggest, allow for a range of commercial, warehousing and distribution, light industrial, and industrial uses. • 13 Overlay Districts—Overlay districts are designed to “overlay” as opposed to replace the underlying zoning district. They can add additional standards to a property and/or override certain standards of the underlying zoning district. They often account for sensi- tive environmental areas that require extra protection but can also regulate complex uses that may require extra scrutiny or more flexibility. The Town’s overlay districts include: • Adult Use • Dock & Pier • Floodplain • Former Grade 5 School Planned Unit Development • Groundwater Protection • Medical Marijuana • Registered Recreational Marijuana Cultivators, Research Facilities, and Testing Laboratories Overlay District • Medical Services (which includes a mixed-use subzone) • Recreational Shellfish Area and Shellfish Relay Area Dock & Pier • Resource Protection • Senior Continuing Care Retirement Community • Shopping Center Redevelopment • Ground-Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Town staff reviews the Zoning Ordinance after the adoption of each Local Comprehensive Plan, to make sure that zoning is consistent with the plan. For example, since the 2010 plan was adopted, planning staff worked with local village represen- tatives to review and revise all four village zoning districts. Zoning is supplemented by several other local land use regulations. These include: • Growth Management Ordinance—In 2001 the Town adopted a Growth Management Ordinance that established a limit on the number of residential building permits that may be issued in a single year. This ordinance remains in effect. 67Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems • District of Critical Planning Concern (DCPC)—A DCPC is a powerful planning tool that allows a town or a group of towns to adopt special rules and regulations that will protect natural, coastal, scientific, cultural, architectural, archaeological, historic, economic, or recreational resources or values of regional, statewide, or national signifi- cance. Barnstable has identified four DCPCs. • In February 2001, Barnstable nominated the entire town as a DCPC to address the rate of residential growth. • A DCPC for the Pond Village area of Barnstable Village was designated in January 2006 (see the Pond Village District above). Implementing regulations were never adopted for this DCPC, but the Pond Village District was locally adopted in response to the DCPC designation. • A DCPC for Centerville Village was designated in 2009, with the purposes of respecting its historic character and supporting neighborhood-serving mixed-use. • A DCPC for Craigville Beach was designated in 2011, with the purposes of minimizing inconsistent development, protecting scenic views and natural resources, and preparing against flood hazards and sea-level rise. • Subdivision Rules and Regulations (SRR)— The SRR provides regulations for dividing land and laying out roadways. • Wetland Regulations—The purpose of these regulations is to protect wetlands and related water resources, and their values and functions. • Board of Health Regulations—These regula- tions are meant to preserve and maintain the Town's public health standards and protect its environmental resources. Growth Incentive Zone A Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) is a planning tool that allows communities to exempt certain development activities from Cape Cod Commission regulatory review. The intent is to encourage residential and commercial devel- opment and redevelopment in geographically defined economic centers supported by commu- nity amenities and appropriate infrastructure and away from sensitive environmental areas. First approved in 2006, the Downtown Hyannis GIZ was reauthorized in 2018. Working in concert with the Town of Barnstable, the Commission developed comprehensive changes to the GIZ framework to ensure regulations promote and support a program of long-term iterative investment in the place, in keeping with both Regional Policy Plan and Town goals. Land use, housing production, infrastructure, social and demographic characteristics, and the overall regulatory environment were reviewed during the latest renewal. The GIZ looks at Hyannis holistically, reviewing connections between Downtown Hyannis and Route 132 to better understand how both areas and the residential areas that surround them connect and function. To achieve the goals of the GIZ, the Town will implement planning initiatives, develop decision support tools, make planned infrastructure investments, and enact regulatory changes to support continued public and private investment there. In order to ensure holistic development throughout Barnstable, all significant develop- ment outside the GIZ is reviewed by the Cape Cod Commission. 68Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Downtown Hyannis Design & Infrastructure Plan The Town of Barnstable has a longstanding effort to revitalize downtown Hyannis. The area’s unique roots as a bustling Main Street, active harbor, and maritime village make downtown Hyannis an ideal place to promote redevelopment. In July 2005, new zoning (described above) was passed to encourage a more livable, mixed-use environment downtown while also balancing human and natural systems. The Downtown Hyannis Design & Infrastructure Plan is an extension of that zoning. It establishes building and site design standards for all devel- opment within the Downtown Hyannis Zoning Districts (with the exception of single-family residences) and creates a set of guidelines to anticipate and direct expected growth. The Plan is a reference manual for developers, designers, town boards, and officials to guide improvements to private properties and public infrastructure in downtown Hyannis. It includes development guidelines for architecture and site design, procedures for establishing vehicle trip generation, suggested redevelopment strategies to mitigate development impacts, and more. All development within the Downtown Hyannis Zoning Districts shall comply with the design guidelines, recommended development strate- gies, and other recommendations of the Plan. Resource Protection Overlay District (RPOD) The purposes of the RPOD include protecting groundwater quality, reducing nitrogen contam- ination, and reducing development potential to be more in line with infrastructure capacity. The boundaries of the RPOD include the recharge areas to the Centerville River, Popponessett and Shoestring Bays, and the Three Bays area of Cotuit and Osterville, together with areas depen- dent upon private well water supplies. The only regulation related to the RPOD is that minimum lot area is 87,120 square feet (approximately two acres) regardless of the underlying zoning. Current land use planning and water protection practices, however, suggest that there are many better ways to protect groundwater, and that two-acre zoning can even lead to unintended harms due to sprawl, extensive lawns, fertilizer use, etc. The RPOD may be reevaluated to make sure it results in outcomes more in line with its stated purposes. Chapter 168 Regulatory Agreement Districts A Regulatory Agreement is a contract entered into between a property owner who wants to develop or redevelop their property, and the Town and/or the Cape Cod Commission, the primary purpose of which is to negotiate and establish the development regulations and conditions that will apply to the property during the term of the agreement. This is a flexible tool that can allow development in a way that the current zoning regulations would prohibit and can streamline the permit- ting process. In return, the developer agrees to provide certain benefits that contribute to the Town, such as improving Town infrastructure, land preservation, community or recreational facilities, affordable housing, or other benefit that serves the development and the Town. A Regulatory Agreement requires approval of both the Planning Board and the Town Council. Barnstable has three Regulatory Agreement Districts. The primary district encompasses downtown Hyannis from the Airport Rotary and Iyannough Road to the north to just south of South Street. Two much smaller districts are located along Iyannough Road at Airport Road and at South Main Street at Craigsville Beach Road. 69Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Water Supply Barnstable’s water supply comes from the Cape Cod Aquifer, the underground layer of porous soil through which fresh water can flow. A Sole Source Aquifer (SSA) provides at least half of the drinking water for the area above it, but on Cape Cod, the SSA is truly singular: all of the Cape’s drinking water comes from the same source.34 The aquifer is unconfined, which means the area’s sandy soils allow water to filter through the ground and directly into the aquifer. Water flows well through sand, which helps the groundwater system to be productive, but the quick flow also means that the aquifer is vulnerable to contamination because there is less time and opportunity for natural filtration. To address concern for the quality and supply of drinking water in the municipal water system serving the Hyannis area, the Town contracted with an engineering consultant Weston and Sampson in 2019 to evaluate alternative water supply resources resulting in the New Sources Alternatives Evaluation Report from 2019. This report recommended installing treatment on existing wells and to construct additional, new water supply wells. The initial test well drilling report projected deficits close to 1.87 million gallons per day (MGD) in 2020, which are projected to increase to 3.32 MGD in 2040.35 These deficits were based on DEP required redundancy and conservative growth estimates. After numerous test wells and short-term pump tests, their recommendations include the development of one of three potential well sites. Cost estimates for these sites are $25.4, $19.6, and $22.2 million respectively, without a 34 “Learn More: Drinking Water on Cape Cod.” Cape Cod Groundwater Guardians. Accessed October 2022. 35 Weston & Sampson Engineers. Source Exploration Final Report. Prepared for the Town of Barnstable. April 2021. 36 Ibid. 37 Hans Keijser, Water Supply Division Supervisor guarantee that any one of these sites will reach the projected demand gap of 2.16 million gallons per day.36 The sites' test wells had flow rates of 500 through 5,000 gallons per minute at a well depth of 85 to 100 feet.37 While Barnstable is connected by a single water supply source (sole source aquifer), the town is divided into five independently governed districts for the provision of emergency services known as fire districts. Today, three of the fire districts (Barnstable, Cotuit, and C.O.M.M.) provide public drinking water. The Water Supply Division of the Barnstable Department of Public Works is an enterprise-account funded municipal entity and manages the assets of the former Barnstable Water Company (Town-acquired in 2005) and serves the majority of Hyannis’s residents and businesses. The rate payers of the water system have been carrying the majority of the cost of the capital improvements through substantial rate increases over the years. The West Barnstable District is unique in that its resi- dents primarily use private wells for water provi- sion, rather than village services. Voters in each A Soul Source Aquifer (SSA) provides at least half of the drinking water for the area above it, but on Cape Cod, the SSA is truly singular: all of the Cape’s drinking water comes from the same source. 70Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems fire district elect three members to a Prudential Committee, which oversees the budgets for fire and emergency services, and a Board of Water Commissioners (except in Hyannis). The district breakdown increases citizens' ability to dictate the services they desire from their division (Fire Chiefs Interview September 9, 2022).38 Across communities on Cape Cod and throughout Barnstable, growing concerns about water pollution factor into discussion of current and future water supply as the region struggles with increased chemical detection, including polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), which are growing concerns throughout the Commonwealth and the nation. All three poten- tial sites for new water supply sources must include wells and water treatment to ensure current and future quality. The governor's office recognized the swift response to PFAS in the water supply by local water departments through grant funding and awarded the Barnstable and C.O.M.M. water departments a total of $350,000 for initial remediation efforts. 38 Chief Francis M. Pulsifer, Organizational Analysis—2019, Barnstable Fire Department, 2019, p 3–4. Protecting Barnstable's potable water requires continued action and support dealing with PFAS and emerging contaminants, in addition to improving existing stormwater management and enhancing groundwater protections. Additional emerging issues like population growth and climate change with more extreme weather will need proper attention through the planning process. Starting in 2015 the Town of Barnstable has made a substantial effort to install carbon filtra- tion systems on all the Town’s municipal wells and was able to comply with decreasing federal and state PFAS standards, winning a DEP award in 2018. In 2020 the Maher Wells groundwater filtration plant was constructed with state- of-the-art technology that removes PFAS, 1,4 dioxane, iron and manganese from groundwater and provides the Town with high quality drinking water in accordance with all state and federal drinking water requirements. Wastewater Management Overview Protecting water quality is vital to the health and future of Barnstable and the region, and wastewater management plays a critical role. Infrastructure to handle and treat wastewater (household, commercial, and industrial wastes) can protect embayments and groundwater for the health of the community and natural environ- ment. Barnstable collaborates with the Cape Cod Commission on wastewater mitigation strategies highlighted in the Cape Cod Area-Wide Water Quality Management Plan (also known at the 208 Plan), and Cape-wide cooperation is critical due to the sole source aquifer. The 208 Plan was Falmouth Road Pump Station, Alora Lanzillotta 71Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in September 2015. The Town followed the Commission's planning by advancing waste- water management mechanisms by completing a municipal Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) in January 2020. The CWMP was certified by the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs through the MEPA process on December 20, 2020. The Water Pollution Control Program (WPCP) under Barnstable’s Department of Public Works (DPW) is an enterprise-account funded and manages the Town’s wastewater and sewer infrastructure including a secondary wastewater treatment plant, 30 sewage pump stations, and 55 miles of sewer collection lines, as well as a pretreatment program for industrial wastewater and laboratory for wastewater testing. The CWMP calls for expanding the Town’s sewer collection system by approximately 190 miles of sewer lines 39 CWMP 2020, 5-1. 40 “Route 28 East Sewer Expansion Project Public Information Session August 15, 2022.” Barnstable Water Resources. August 3, 2022, accessed October 2022. over the next 20 to 30 years. The plan outlines three phases of ten years each “to address… nutrient removal, pond protection, drinking water protection, economic development, and other wastewater concerns.”39 During Phase I, the Town is concentrating on the eastern Route 28 sewer expansion and additional sewer projects that reduce contaminants from septic systems.40 Figure 2.1 (above) shows that most of the nitrogen contamination across Cape Cod comes from septic systems, which are controllable sources. The DPW is providing instructions and a sewer connection form to property owners along the Phase I expansion route as construction gets underway. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes total maximum daily loads (TMDL) to limit daily contaminants in a watershed to levels compliant with the U.S. Clean Water Act. TMDLs protect Popponesset Bay, the Three Bay System, the Centerville Total Nitrogen Sources by Percentage Controllable Nitrogen Sources by Percentage 3%Natural Surfaces 14%Water Body Surface Area 6% Stormwater 8% Stormwater 7% Fertilizers 9% Fertilizers 0.4% Landfill 0.5% Landfill 4% WastewaterTreatment Facility 5% WastewaterTreatment Facility 0.3%Farm Animal Loads 0.3%Farm Animal Loads 65%Septic 78%Septic Total Nitrogen Sources by Percentage Controllable Nitrogen Sources by Percentage Source: Cape Cod Commission. 208 Plan Cape Cod Area Wide Water Quality Management Plan Update. June 2015. Figure 2 .1 . Sources of Nitrogen on Cape Cod 72Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems River System, Halls Creek, and Lewis Bay. While the Town is monitoring water quality for their working harbor, Barnstable Harbor and Rushy Marsh do not require a total maximum daily load threshold as further elaborated within their respected Massachusetts Estuaries Project (MEP) reports. The 2017 draft MEP technical report for the Barnstable Harbor system indicates that the system is not severely overloaded with respect to nitrogen and the majority of sub-embayments have assimilative capacity to accept more nitrogen. The one exception is the Millway sub-embayment which the modeling indicates is overloaded with respect to nitrogen and requires a 65% reduction in nitrogen septic load. The 2006 MEP report states that Rushy Marsh Pond presently has a relatively low nitrogen load from its watershed, due to its small size and propor- tionally large undeveloped areas. However, it should be noted that while Rushy Marsh Pond has a relatively low nitrogen load, it is still significantly impaired by nitrogen enrichment.41 Septic systems are the largest source of nitrogen by percentage across Cape Cod and the most addressable source. Barnstable’s efforts to expand public sewer connections, along with other best practices, can decrease the amount of nitrogen leaching into the groundwater. The CWMP process identified traditional and non-traditional techniques to manage pollutants’ total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and keep contaminants below harmful thresholds through a watershed-specific approach. Barnstable manages the quality of its watersheds through further collaboration with the EPA and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Wastewater across Barnstable impacts eight watersheds, and three entirely 41 Griffin Beaudoin, Town Engineer, DPW. 42 “Barnstable, Massachusetts.” Vineyard Wind. Accessed October 2022. within its borders, including: • Centerville River System Watershed • Halls Creek Watershed • Rushy Marsh Watershed • Popponesset Bay Watershed • Three Bays System Watershed • Lewis Bay Watershed • Barnstable Harbor Watershed • Scorton Creek Watershed Recent initiatives to lower nitrogen load include the Town expanding sewer lines in coordination with the Vineyard Wind project installing offshore cables under public roadways.42 Sewer extension projects include the Route 28 East, Attucks Lane, Phinney’s Lane, Long Pond, Strawberry Hill, Old Yarmouth Road, and Merchant Way sewer expansions. Recent waste- water system failures in other communities on Cape Cod also reoriented community concerns about the location of sewer pumping stations relative to sea level rise and type of operating system. The Department of Public Works iden- tified the conversion of vacuum systems to low pressure pump systems or gravity sewer systems in locations less prone to flooding during sea level rise as the next step to maintain existing systems and expand sewer service. Non-profit organizations like Barnstable Clean Water Coalition (BCWC) partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency to employ innovative wastewater solutions. Non-traditional solutions to mitigate excessive nutrients include innovative/alternative septic systems, dredging, and bog restoration. Eight out of every ten septic systems across the Cape Cod region have 73Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems traditional septic systems that treat effluent while allowing nitrogen to leach into the groundwater.43 New innovative/alternative (I/A) systems include a denitrification chamber between septic tanks and leaching that converts nitrates to nitrogen gas for a cleaner effluent in the leaching process. Projects like the Shubael Pond Project are installing clusters of I/A systems to demonstrate nitrogen reduction impacts and adoption potential across municipalities instead of sewering.44 Another initiative facilitated by non-profits and the Town of Barnstable was the three-phase dredging project referred to as the Cotuit Cut project. This project involved widening the navigational channel between Cotuit Bay and Sampson’s Island by approximately 400 feet by dredging the western tip of Sampson’s Island. Widening this waterway aimed to improve navigation, safety, and water quality through enhanced tidal flushing.45 The sand dredged from the channel was utilized to nourish the dunes on the eastern end of Dead Neck, improving coastal resiliency and restoring critical nesting habitat for shorebirds. Since completion of this project in 2020, the Town has monitored nitrogen levels in the Three Bays and has determined that the project resulted in negligible improvements to water quality. The restoration of retired cranberry bogs in Marstons Mills to a more naturally func- tioning wetland system is designed to treat nitrogen-polluted ground and surface water from septic system pollution. The bog system 43 “I/A Septic Systems,” Barnstable Clean Water Coalition, accessed March 2, 2023, https://bcleanwater.org/what-we-do/mitigate/innovative-alternative-septic-systems/ 44 “The Shubael Pond Project,” Barnstable Clean Water Coalition, accessed March 2, 2023, https://bcleanwater.org/what-we-do/mitigate/shubael-pond-project/ 45 Dredging Dead Neck Sampson’s Island, Barnstable Clean Water Coalition, accessed March 2, 2023, https://bcleanwater.org/what-we-do/mitigate/dredging/ 46 Barnstable Department of Public Works. Comprehensive Wastewater Management, FY2022 Annual Report. Prepared for the Town of Barnstable. August 2022. sits at the headwaters of the Marstons Mills River, a groundwater-fed river that delivers approximately one-third of the excess nitrogen load entering the Three Bays estuary in the town of Barnstable, the third most nitrogen-impaired estuary on Cape Cod. By implementing this eco-restoration, we seek to evaluate cranberry bog restoration as an effective and cost-com- petitive nature-based approach to nitrogen reduction that also addresses urgent climate impacts to human wellbeing and infrastructure. While improving habitat and water quality, this project also provides public access and educational opportunities. Additional efforts by the Town of Barnstable to reduce nitrogen from point source contamina- tion include a geographic information systems (GIS) tool that analyzes the water conditions on a lot-by-lot basis. The tool evaluates sanitary conditions related to public health concerns but can also be used by the DPW and other munic- ipal departments in the case of water supply protections, nutrient enrichment concerns, aesthetic issues, and in economic development considerations.46 Multiple potential sources ranging from septic systems to landfills and stormwater will continually need creative tools to solve. 74Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Stormwater Management Overview The Town of Barnstable considers stormwater management an essential component of its Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) due to stormwater’s potential impact on the bays, watersheds, and groundwater. Stormwater includes all precipitation and snowmelt that runs off surfaces such as roofs, pavement, and even lawns instead of absorbing into soil and natural groundcover. This runoff picks up sediment, bacteria, fertilizers, oils, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals from sources including but not limited to pet and wildlife waste and often carries them directly into existing drainage infrastructure or surface waters. Untreated stormwater can lead to water quality, ecosystem, and public health degra- dation. Stormwater that is infiltrated without proper pretreatment can also threaten ground- water. Groundwater quality is a regional concern since Cape Cod has a sole source aquifer. In addition to water quality issues, stormwater quantity (flooding) is an increasing concern due to our changing climate. More frequent and larger storms are bringing more rain, wind, and waves that along with rising sea levels are threatening infrastructure, particularly in coastal areas such as Barnstable. Cape Cod organizations like the Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC), Mass Bays Program, Barnstable County Coastal Resources Committee, and the Cape Cod Commission support educational programs, new stormwater management systems, and the maintenance of existing systems alongside municipal efforts. Green Stormwater Infrastructure Stormwater management is an ongoing effort in Barnstable through the assessment and prioritization of sites to improve operation and maintenance (O&M) of existing systems and install new green stormwater infrastructure (GSI). GSI uses natural processes to manage stormwater quality and quantity, providing more resiliency to climate change impacts. GSI includes a variety of practices to reduce and treat runoff that may range from installing rain gardens, porous pavement, and constructed wetlands, to reducing impervious cover and installing cisterns. Research has shown that GSI does a better job of treating and reducing stormwater than traditional “gray” stormwater infrastructure and also provides other benefits such as shade, habitat, and beautification. Recent efforts in the Three Bays Watershed displayed a collaborative effort between the Town of Barnstable DPW, APCC, private consultant Horsley Witten Group and various other non-profit environmental advocacy organizations, to install and maintain a variety of GSI systems. MS4 Permit The Barnstable (CWMP) identifies meeting the requirements of the national pollutant discharge elimination system (NPDES) Phase II Table 2 .3 . MS4 Stormwater Outfall Locations Identified Stormwater Outfalls Watershed Location 59 Stormwater Outfalls Lewis Bay Watershed 15 Stormwater Outfalls Halls Creek Watershed 40 Stormwater Outfalls Centerville Watershed 36 Stormwater Outfalls Three Bays Watershed 1 Stormwater Outfall Popponesset Bay Watershed 54 Stormwater Outfalls Barnstable Harbor Watershed Source: Barnstable CWMP 75Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems NPDES Phase II Stormwater Program Automatically Designated MS4 Areas US EPA Region 1 GIS Center Map #8824, 8/9/2013 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Kilometers 0123456Miles MA ME NH RI VT CT Barnstable Town MA 45121 43576 Town Population: Regulated Population: Urbanized Areas, Town Boundaries: US Census (2000, 2010) Base map © 2013 Microsoft Corporation and its data suppliers (Populations estimated from 2010 Census).Regulated Area: UA Based on 2000 Census UA Based on 2010 Census Figure 2 .2 . Town of Barnstable NPDES Phase II Stormwater Program Regulated MS4 Areas 76Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems 2016 Massachusetts Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit as a priority in the recommended 30-year implementation plan. An MS4 permit from the EPA authorizes a community to discharge stormwater from its MS4 into waterways in accordance with regu- lations and conditions to protect water quality. An MS4 permit is required for communities with urbanized areas as identified with census data. Figure 2.2 (page 76) shows that a majority of Barnstable is designated as an urbanized area. As such, Barnstable has applied for and received an MS4 permit for discharging stormwater from its 207 outfalls into waterbodies across several villages and watersheds as identified in Table 2.3 (page 75) .47 The Town is actively working on regulations to assure future stormwater runoff meets and exceeds these standards. Future upgrades to the storm sewer system were appropriated $750,000 annually with the adoption of the CWMP; this includes the identi- fication and improvements of failed catch basins, leaching structure replacements, and additional best management practices.48 Existing GSI projects, including the Three Bays Stormwater project, will continue as Barnstable prioritizes the mitigation of nutrients, bacteria, and sediment in stormwater runoff. Barnstable will also continue collaboration with its neighboring communities to address stormwater issues on a watershed scale. Regional efforts are vital to the Cape Cod community as sea level rises on an international scale and more inten- sive weather patterns further impact aspects of the built environment. 47 Barnstable Department of Public Works. Comprehensive Wastewater Management, FY2022 Annual Report. Prepared for the Town of Barnstable. August 2022. 48 Ibid. 49 US Federal Highway Administration. Road Function Classifications. November 2000. Transportation Network Overview Barnstable has facilities for many modes of transportation for residents and visitors, but mobility throughout the town is largely car-centric. Automobile traffic may navigate Barnstable by three east to west roadways: the transcontinental U.S. Route 6, Barnstable's Main Street Route 6A (also known as Old King’s Highway), or state Route 28 along the southern harbor. These highways comprise 37 miles under state jurisdiction, followed by 354 miles under Barnstable’s jurisdiction, and 214 miles of private roads.49 While road jurisdiction determines the institution in charge of maintenance and upkeep, road function classification determines design standards that impact mobility and land access depending on classification type. The main lateral roads in Barnstable include different types of arterials with multiple lanes and varying speeds connecting individuals to local roadways. Table 2.4. Functional Classification of Cape Cod Roadways Barnstable Roadway Functional Classification Route 6 Urban Extension of Rural Principal Arterial Route 6A, Old King's Highway Urban Minor Arterial Route 28 Urban Extension of Rural Minor Arterial Source: Cape Cod Commission, Regional Policy Plan, 2002. 77Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Low-Lying Roads Particular consideration may be applied to roads which were defined within the Cape Cod Commission’s Low Lying Roads Project through which a vulnerability assessment of roadway segments, bridges, and culverts was conducted to identify priority roadway networks impacted by flooding from effects of sea level rise, storm surge and erosion. The top five roads identified within Barnstable included Ocean Street, Pleasant Street, Bridge Street (Osterville and Little Island), West Bay Road and Craigville Beach Road.50 Projections ten and forty years in the 50 Cape Cod Commission. 2020 Regional Transportation Plan. Technical Appendix G: Congestion Management Plan. July 15, 2019. future show temporary flooding of low-elevation roads increasing in occurrence and severity. The Town is pragmatic in their assessment of sea level rise and intense weather patterns; they are actively looking for adaptations to divert water and keep infrastructure operational. Congestion & Safety Barnstable's transportation and traffic trends are distinct due to the town's position as both a destination and throughway. Seasonal travel trends through the mid-cape region increased between 2008 and 2018, with 2.70% total growth Figure 2.3. Functional Roadway Classifications 78Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems over the ten-year period, 0.26% annual growth, and a one-year growth rate of 1.26% from 2017–2018.51 Mobile counts through the Cape Cod Commission show Barnstable consistently supports some of the highest volume-to-capacity thresholds throughout Cape Cod year-round. Seasonal variability recorded on Route 28 by monthly remote counts shows traffic volumes are relatively stable throughout the year. Volumes for vehicles entering at the intersection of Route 28 and Lumbert Mill Road during the winter months drop as low as 20,000 while the peak summer months climb gradually to 25,000.52 Intense travel densities span Barnstable by Route 6, Route 6A, Route 132, Route 149, and Route 28 year-round. In the case of intense congestion, local connector roads under municipal or private 51 Cape Cod Commission.2020 Regional Transportation Plan. Technical Appendix G: Congestion Management Plan. July 15, 2019. 52 Ibid. 53 “FY 2021 Capital Budget and FY 2021 - FY 2025 Capital Improvements Plan,” accessed March 2, 2023, https://town.barnstable.ma.us/Departments/Finance/Budget_Information/FY21-Capital-Improvements-Plan.pdf 54 Cape Cod Commission. 2020 Regional Transportation Plan. Technical Appendix G: Congestion Management Plan. July 15, 2019. 55 “Town Roads,” Town of Barnstable, accessed March 2, 2023, https://town.barnstable.ma.us/Departments/Highway/pageview. asp?file=Programs%5CTown-Roads.html&title=Town%20Roads&exp=Programs Source: Town of Barnstable FY2021-FY2025 Capital Improvements Plan.53 jurisdictions take on additional wear and tear. Town infrastructure bears a disproportionate impact from automobile travelers and additional hazards with a high volume of travelers. Seven of the top ten crash locations in the region between 2012 and 2016 were in Barnstable on Route 28, with a total of 552 collisions occurring at those seven intersections.54 Intersection and arterial maintenance as a result of increased throughput and crashes bear an impact on Barnstable resident’s local travel and potentially the appropriation of their tax funds. The Barnstable Department of Public Works highway division currently maintains 218.19 miles of public roads, seventy-four parking lots across town, six bridges, and 4,000 drainage systems through methods like street sweeping, grading gravel roads, mowing and brush removal on road shoulders, and litter control.55 Safety infrastructure, including 6,332 guardrails, and signage, is also managed by DPW. When looking ahead at future capital improvements, this Airport Rotary, Alora Lanzillotta Table 2 .5 . DPW Capital Improvements, FY2023 to FY2025 . FY2023 FY2024 FY2025 Pedestrian Infrastructure 4,395,000 2,575,000 1,090,000 Maintenance 3,750,000 3,850,000 3,950,000 Improvements 2,478,500 4,537,425 9,205,296 79Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems municipal infrastructure maintenance will cost more than $11.5 million over the next three years, while improvements are projected to amount to $16 million and pedestrian infrastruc- ture $8 million. Barnstable has a history of permitting private roadways to the extent that almost 50 percent of all roadways or 200 miles in Barnstable are private. DPW highway division facilitates emergency repairs, including drainage, through a petition process in which fifty-one percent of abutters petition for the betterment of a road open to the public for more than five years. The betterment process includes a deposit by abutters to cover the initial inspection and cost estimates compiled by the municipal engineer.56 Private roadway maintenance as of the fiscal year 2023 is projected to cost $975,000 and $375,000 in the fiscal year 2024. This privatiza- tion trend challenges long-term infrastructural upkeep and consistent emergency response throughout town. Transit Individuals looking for access throughout Barnstable and the region without automobiles can turn to public transportation as an alterna- tive. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) and Barnstable Council on Aging fulfill the mobility needs of many individuals. CCRTA service includes six full-time and seasonal bus routes, Dial-a-ride services, Smart DART connector, and seasonal train service. Bus passengers may also elect to bring a standard two-wheel bicycle on fixed route frontal bike 56 Town of Barnstable Zoning Bylaw: Article III "Temporary Repairs on Private Ways" 57 Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority: “Overview, DART: Dial-A-Ride Transportation.” Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Accessed October 2022 58 Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority: “Smart DART.” Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Accessed October 2022 59 Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority: “ADA Paratransit, Door-To-Door Service.” Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Accessed October 2022 racks. Year-round bus service routes and connec- tivity are included in Table 2.6 (above) . Alternative CCRTA services include DART, a door-to-door ride by appointment service for all residents and visitors seven days a week for a fixed fare.57 Smart DART is a new service that operates like Uber and Lyft; riders may request fixed fare, private rides with free transfers to CCRTA bus routes between 7:30 am and 6:30 pm Monday through Friday.58 Additional ADA Paratransit service aims to close any accessibility gaps in service through their door-to-door shared-ride service for those unable to use fixed bus routes.59 Elderly individuals in the community may choose to use CCRTA services to navigate medical appointments, banking, or grocery shopping Table 2 .6 . Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority Fixed Routes Route Name Connection Route Sealine HTC to Woods Hole Route 28 & Woods Hole Rd. H20 Hyannis Hyannis to Orleans Center Route 28 & Route 39 Barnstable Villager HTC to Barnstable Courthouse Route 132 & Route 6A Hyannis Crosstown Local Shopping in Hyannis Sandwich Line Hyannis to Sandwich Route 28 & Route 130 Source: Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority 80Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems through the Council on Aging’s Silver Express.60 Fares on the Silver Express are suggested dona- tions, and a Title IIIB grant subsidizes the service, allowing users to ride who would otherwise be unable to pay. CCRTA offers additional transpor- tation for appointments at all major Boston-area Hospitals by reservation Monday through Thursday from the Barnstable commuter lot on Route 132.61 Fixed bus routes run along the main roads laterally through Barnstable, but still addi- tional services are necessary to meet the more complex needs of the suburban villages. Routes like the Sealine, Sandwich line, and Barnstable line serve arterial roads including Route 28 and Route 132, but leave the village of West Barnstable, Barnstable, and Cotuit underserved with few regular bus stops aside from those connecting Cape Cod Community College. 60 “Transportation.” Barnstable Council on Aging. Accessed October 2022. 61 Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority: “Boston Hospital, The Cape to Boston Hospitals.” Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Accessed October 2022 62 “Plymouth and Brockton Daily Bus Routes.” Plymouth & Brockton. Accessed October 2022. 63 Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority: “CapeFLYER Schedules & Services.” Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Accessed October 2022. https://capecodrta.org/schedules-services/capeflyer/ Alternative Transportation & Modes (Trains, Ferries, Airport) Alternative, private transportation based in Barnstable includes a variety of options. The Plymouth and Brockton bus line and Peter Plan bus line connects individuals in Barnstable through services out of the Hyannis Transportation Center and public Park & Ride lots and Boston, with stops at South Station and Logan Airport.62 Seasonal Cape-Flyer rail service allows visitors from Boston and southeastern Massachusetts to avoid automobile congestion on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Service extends as far north as South Station in Boston and as west as Middleborough, offering free wireless internet and bicycle passage.63 Individuals may also leave Hyannis bound for Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard on Steamship Authority ferries and Hy-line Cruises. As the dominant mode of travel to the islands, the Steamship Authority offers both high-speed and traditional services to Nantucket from Hyannis Harbor with the opportunity to reserve passage for vehicles. Hy-line Cruises offer high-speed passenger trips with year-round passage to Nantucket, seasonal travel to Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard between May and October, and recreational charter boats. Still, it poses challenges to Hyannis congestion and develop- ment due to the prioritization of through traffic and parking near Main Street Hyannis. Travelers also elect to travel through the Cape Cod Gateway Airport, previously known as the Barnstable Municipal Airport. It is one of two West Barnstable Train Station, Alora Lanzillotta 81Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems publicly owned active airfields in the Town of Barnstable. Home to Cape Air and Southern Airways Express, there are daily flights to Boston, New York, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard during the summer season. Additional desti- nations are accessible through the Cape Cod Gateway Airport through private partnerships with JetBlue and other affiliated airlines.64 Recent trends show that despite the express service offered between Cape Cod and Nantucket, the accessibility, frequency, and lower price point of regular ferry travel is difficult competition.65 Despite the recuperation of airlines in the late stages of the Coronavirus pandemic, corporate aviation including private flights and the ship- ment of goods is more viable than commercial flights in and out of the Barnstable community.66 Individuals seeking a getaway to the Cape have multiple options to get to Barnstable, but the challenge of navigating the area without a car encourages many to drive to the region. 64 “About the Airport.” Cape Cod Gateway Airport. Accessed October 2022. https://flyhya.com/airport-info/about-the-airport/ 65 Transportation: Katie Servis, Airport Manager, Cape Cod Gateway Airport 66 Ibid. 67 Cape Cod Commission: “Town of Barnstable, Local Comprehensive Plan: Map & Data Viewer.” Cape Cod Commission. ArcGIS Web App Viewer. Accessed October 2022. 68 Cape Cod Commission: “Town of Barnstable, Local Comprehensive Plan: Map & Data Viewer”, Cape Cod Commission. ArcGIS Web App Viewer. Accessed October 2022. Bicycle & Pedestrian Infrastructure As of January 2022, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) named the Town of Barnstable a Complete Streets community. Barnstable sought the Complete Streets designation to improve the experience of motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The Town may obtain up to $500,000 in MassDOT funding assistance to complete multi-modal projects that improve safety and mobility. Current Complete Streets initiatives focus on extending and improving the 101.7 miles of sidewalk across the seven villages to ensure ADA compliance and pedestrian safety.67 Barnstable has limited protected infrastructure for cyclists. There are 11 miles of existing pathways and 0.7 miles of existing, on-street bicycle lanes with consideration of an additional bike lanes suggested through Complete Streets Prioritization Plan.68 Efforts are currently being coordinated to extend the Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT) through the Town of Barnstable to the Sandwich town line. The CCRT will be achieved through two phases, Phase 3 and Phase 4, as shown on Figure 2.4A and Figure 2.4B (page 83). Phase 3 is anticipated to commence construction Spring 2025 and will extend from the current trail in Yarmouth from Old Town House Road to Mary Dunn Road in Barnstable. The trail will compose a distance of approximately 4 miles to be installed within the Hyannis Ponds Wildlife Management Area. The Town is currently seeking grant funds to design Phase 4 which will extend the Main Street West Barnstable, Alora Lanzillotta 82Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Figure 2 .4A . Cape Cod Rail Trail Phase 3 Barnstable Extension Figure 2 .4B . Cape Cod Rail Trail Phase 4 Barnstable Extension 83Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems trail from Mary Dunn Road to the Sandwich Town line. Based on an engineering study and public input, the Phase 4 trail route is proposed to follow the path shown on Figure 2.4B (page 83) to compose a distance of approximately 10 miles.69 A lack of protected bicycle infrastructure often deters less experienced cyclists. West Barnstable and Barnstable village attract recreational riders with various mountain biking trails and routes across Cape Cod, but the trails do not facilitate connections throughout town or welcome casual riders. Between 2010 and 2020, Barnstable saw a total of 6,783 vehicle crashes, with 281 bike related collisions and 278 involving pedestrians.70 While these represent relatively few collisions, cyclist infrastructure and education initiatives on sharing the road can increase safety throughout the community. Public Services & Utilities Overview Within the Town of Barnstable, public services and utilities are provided for people who live and work in the Town as well as its many visitors. Those services include schools, libraries, police, and solid waste disposal and the utilities include household utilities such as electricity, natural gas, heating oil, propane, telecommunication, and internet. Residents have a variety of choices including an increasing number of environmen- tally friendly options. 69 “Cape Cod Rail Trail.” Town of Barnstable, Department of Public Works. Accessed June 2023. 70 Massachusetts Department of Transportation. “Operations Dashboard, Statewide Crashes by Severity and Year.” Accessed October 2022. 71 Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), “School and District Profiles”, Barnstable, Accessed January 2023. Public Schools The Barnstable Public School District operates a local preK-12 school system with nine school facilities. As of the 2022–2023 school year, the district educated 4,838 students. The student body is comprised of a diverse population and educates many students recognized by the State of Massachusetts as “selected populations” or those who may need additional educational support.71 Table 2.7 (below) lists the public schools in the Town of Barnstable. Support programs help a range of students including those for whom English is a second language (ESL), English learners, students with Table 2 .7 . Barnstable Public Schools School Grades Location Barnstable High School 8 - 12 Hyannis Barnstable Intermediate School 6 - 7 Hyannis Barnstable United Elementary 3 - 5 Osterville Barnstable West Barnstable Elementary K - 3 West Barnstable Barnstable Community Innovation School K - 3 Hyannis Hyannis West Elementary K - 3 Hyannis Centerville Elementary K - 3 Centerville West Villages Elementary K - 3 Marstons Mills Enoch Cobb Early Learning Center - Preschool Pre-K Ages 3–5 Hyannis Source: Barnstable Public Schools 84Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems 72 Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), “School and District Profiles”, Barnstable, Accessed January 2023. disabilities to students with high needs due to socioeconomic backgrounds or those deemed low-income. In addition to support programs for higher-need students, the district maintains a low teacher-to-student ratio of 11.6 students per teacher and focuses on educating the whole child through social emotional learning opportunities.72 Figure 2.5 (above) shows the percentage of selected populations in the Barnstable School District The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) shows Barnstable students’ performance is “partially meeting expectations” in 2022 achievements. Barnstable Public Schools have a strong foundation and leadership that plans to continue its dedication to future generations. The Town welcomed a new Superintendent, Sarah Ahern, Source: Department of Education (MA) Figure 2 .5 . Barnstable School District Selected Populations Barnstable Community Innovation School, Alora Lanzillotta Low-income High Needs Students with Disabilities English Language Learner First Language not English 54.3% 66.7% 17.2% 21.2% 33.4% 85Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems in 2022. Her early efforts include development of an entry plan focused on building relationships to identify the district’s strengths and opportuni- ties and collaborative development a multi-year Strategy for District Improvement. Initial findings reflect the District’s diversity, dedicated staff and faculty, and breadth of opportunities afforded to students as strengths. The regional high cost of living and housing are recognized by the District as challenges in developing a recruiting talent. After a District facility consolidation effort that closed three elementary schools in the 2000’s the District is faced with mounting space constraints and questions about long-term enrollment trends. Further challenges include a portfolio of aging buildings, concerns about adequacy of spaces and educational equity, as well as ongoing concerns about having two, two grade schools (4–5, 6–7) and Grade 8 at the high school. The region’s network of public and private schools also supplements the diverse needs with school choice so Barnstable residents may elect to send their student out of district, to charter schools, private institutions, or the regional technical high school. While not located within Barnstable, Cape Cod Regional Technical School in nearby Harwich offers programs in trades such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, horti- culture, auto tech and collision repairs, marine services, culinary arts, cosmetology, health tech, dental assisting, information technology, graphic design, and others. Through these designated career pathways, students can earn OSHA 10-hour cards or state-level certifications and help students launch their career. Higher education opportunities are also available in Barnstable and surrounding areas through Cape Cod Community College located in West Barnstable through a variety of Associate’s 73 Town of Barnstable, Town Manager’s Proposed Operating Budget, Fiscal Year 2024, 14. degree programs and the Cape Cod Regional Technical High School’s adult programming, with the Community School. The Community School offers short-term courses in career-focused and enrichment areas like cosmetology, HVAC tech- nology, bicycle repair, and even sewing. These resources actively help individuals enhance tech- nical skills, achieve career goals, and meet the needs of the ever-changing regional economy. Libraries The Town of Barnstable is home to seven independent libraries (listed in Table 2.8 – below); with one private, non-profit organization contracted with the town in each village to provide library services to residents. Each institu- tion has its own staff and board of trustees. The Town has traditionally provided funding to each library in the form of grants for a portion of the libraries’ total operating funds.73 Each library varies in size, operating hours, and collections, but their resources ultimately support the continued education of Barnstable Table 2 .8 . Libraries in Barnstable Library Village The Sturgis Library Barnstable Centerville Public Library Centerville Cotuit Library Cotuit Hyannis Public Library Hyannis Marstons Mills Library Marstons Mills Osterville Village Library Osterville Whelden Library West Barnstable Source: Town of Barnstable 86Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems residents and provide a space to exchange knowledge. While each mission is slightly different, each library is devoted to fostering civic, intellectual, and cultural pursuits, curiosity, and literacy at all ages. They support the community through abundant in-person and remote opportunities. Among adult and youth programming, Barnstable’s libraries offer research resources like computers, databases, catalogs, access to ebooks and audiobooks, museum passes, language resources, and technological assistance, to name a few. The Barnstable public library network is an asset to the community that provides opportunities for lifelong learning. Public Safety The Barnstable Police Department is currently composed of 150 staff members including sworn officers, civilians, and dispatchers with the mission to protect the lives, property, and rights of citizens through proactive strategies. The department faces seasonal fluctuations in community needs with an influx of tourists 74 Public Services: Barnstable Police. 75 Public Services: Barnstable Police. and seasonal populations. As the dispatcher for police and fire calls, they are one of the busiest dispatch centers in the State of Massachusetts.74 Aside from patrol and responding to emergen- cies, the Barnstable Police have specialized resources and units to meet the needs of the community. Two canines comprise their K-9 detection unit focused on patrol and narcotics detection and help the wider Cape Cod Community without canine resources. Additional specialized programs include school resource officers, an emergency notification system, college internship programs, and community resource officers that patrol Hyannis Main Street as liaisons between sworn personnel, businesses, and tourists. There are clinicians on staff designated to aid officers to mitigate community impact as the medical health hub of the region. The Community resource program was extended as of 2022 as a year-round program.75 The Barnstable Police continue to advance their response techniques and technology to reflect the needs of their community; still, challenges with new technology include long-term Town of Barnstable Police Station, Alora Lanzillotta Hyannis Public Library, Alora Lanzillotta 87Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems data storage, licensing fees, and equipment maintenance are an obstacle to these efforts. Challenges across the department include difficulty hiring and outgrowing their physical space. While the headquarters in Hyannis are in good condition, the staff have outgrown existing office spaces and now employ cubicles and village substations in Barnstable and Hyannis to supplement facility needs. There will be more implications for these spaces once the depart- ment reaches full capacity after surmounting challenges to hire officers with previous technical experience. Fire & Emergency Services Fire and emergency medical services align under the same districts as drinking water. The Hyannis 76 1926 Massachusetts House Bill 1433. An Act To Establish The Cotuit Fire District In The Town Of Barnstable. 77 Chief Francis M. Pulsifer, Organizational Analysis—2019, Barnstable Fire Department, 2019, p 3–4. Fire District was the first department formed in 1896 after Town Meeting rejected petitions to create a town-wide fire department due to Barnstable’s size and number of villages. In 1926, residents of Barnstable Village, Cotuit, and Centerville and Osterville together petitioned the state legislature to establish three additional fire districts. The enabling legislation for these districts provided for many powers, including village-level taxation.76 The Barnstable Fire District in Barnstable Village, for example, allowed the village to fund and install streetlights. However, it didn’t offer organized fire protection until 1935, following two 1934 fires that prompted the Barnstable Fire District to create and combine water and fire departments that shared infrastructure.77 In 1949, the West Barnstable Hyannis Fire Department, Alora Lanzillotta 88Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Fire District became Barnstable’s fifth fire district with a majority volunteer base. Marstons Mills joined the Centerville-Osterville district in 1956 to form the Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills (C.O.M.M.) Fire District. Solid Waste Solid waste disposal in Barnstable is facilitated through a town-wide Solid Waste Disposal Facility and a transfer station for households and independent commercial trash haulers. The Solid Waste Disposal Facility located in Marstons Mills is overseen by the Department of Public Works; it is specifically for solid waste generated within the town of Barnstable. Households may purchase up to two transfer station stickers for weekly household waste and recycling, with accommodations for households experiencing financial hardship. Hazardous waste pickup is also available on multiple occasions throughout the spring, summer, and fall at Marstons Mills for house- holds and local businesses. Private Utilities Households and businesses across Barnstable have a diverse set of needs, requiring a variety of utilities. Eversource provides electricity throughout the town of Barnstable. Residents may participate in renewable energy programs with Cape Light Compact, including no-cost energy assessments for Eversource customers seeking more sustainable energy consumption. Cape Light Compact supports the modernization of the current, single-source power grid which relies on power plants.78 The expansion into microgrid systems diversifies energy sources to include multiple renewable power sources to meet communities' needs and support 78 “2015 Grid Modernization.” Cape Light Compact. Accessed October 2022. environmental options for businesses. Aside from electricity, households may differ in their utility needs such as gas, heating oil, or propane due to internal heat or water systems. National Grid is Cape Cod’s natural gas provider. Additional utilities in Barnstable, such as wireless internet and other telecommunication services for residential and business needs, are available through a larger market. Barnstable residents and businesses may purchase wireless internet, cable, or telecom through various providers, including Comcast, Verizon, HughesNet, Viasat, Ultra Home Internet, and T-Mobile Home Internet. Comcast remains the most pervasive vendor for these needs, with the highest internet speeds available. The Town could benefit from additional carriers. Fiber optic through Open Cape continues to expand infra- structure improvements throughout the region to homes and businesses. Wireless internet service is available through a cable connection, satellite, and even 5G LTE. An overlapping list of companies also offers mobile telephone services in the region with the addition of AT&T Wireless. 89Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Map 2 .1 . Town of Barnstable Villages 90Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Map 2 .2 . Current Land Use 91Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Map 2 .3 . Base Zoning 92Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Map 2 .4 . Zoning Overlay Districts 93Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Built Systems Barnstable’s community systems include its cultural and historic resources, economic activity, housing, and—most importantly— its people. Together these resources foster Barnstable’s local identity while enhancing the community networks that serve and support those who live in, work, and visit Barnstable. Healthy, sustainable community systems depend on the thoughtful integration of built systems with the protection of natural systems. Cultural Heritage Overview Barnstable’s natural landscapes and built envi- ronment reflect its rich heritage. Many historic buildings, structures, cemeteries, homesteads, and streetscapes within town represent commu- nity assets that tell Barnstable’s story and create a strong sense of place. The Town’s cultural resources, including two cultural districts, cele- brate and enhance the Town’s vibrant arts scene, maritime traditions, and historic assets. Barnstable is comprised of seven villages each with their own history, identity, and character, and each with a village center with its own unique historic and cultural assets. Barnstable Village, which also includes the Cummaquid neighborhood, is characterized by its intact historic resources and scenic roads, an active harbor and ways to water on the sheltered waters of Barnstable Harbor, and the County seat. Centerville is a year-round community with popular beaches on Nantucket Sound, beautiful historic neighborhoods, the third largest freshwater lake in the region, and convenience shopping areas on Route 28. Cotuit, surrounded on three sides by water, is a residential village with valued open spaces and historic buildings, and a commercial area on Route 28. Hyannis, which also includes the Hyannis Port and West Hyannisport neighborhoods, is the economic center of the region, defined by the presence of the regional commercial center and a historic Main Street and working waterfront. Marstons Mills has a rural village character dotted with cranberry bogs, freshwater ponds, and preserved open spaces. Osterville is an attractive seaside residential community with a quaint and valued village center. West Barnstable is home to the Great Marshes and Sandy Neck, historic resources along Route 6A, and a rural character. Village Organizations Each of Barnstable’s villages is represented by voluntary membership organizations that work with Town officials on local projects, advocate for the unique needs of their village, host events and resident meetings, produce educational materials, and more. These organizations include the Barnstable Village Association, West Barnstable Civic Association, Centerville Civic Association, Marstons Mills Village Association, Cotuit-Santuit Civic Association, Osterville Village Association, Osterville Village and Professional Association, Greater Hyannis Civic Association, and Hyannis Port Civic Association. Community Systems3 94Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Cultural Resources Strong cultural sectors attract residents, tourists, businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs while defining the community’s distinctive atmosphere. Barnstable promotes its cultural resources through its Arts Barnstable program, a Town-sponsored directory of events, places to visit, and resources for artists. Figure 3.1 (page 96) shows a Town-wide map of cultural attrac- tions, including Barnstable’s cultural districts in Barnstable Village and Hyannis. Cultural Districts Barnstable has two established cultural districts —the Barnstable Village Cultural District and the Hyannis HyArts Cultural District. Established cultural districts can pursue a variety of resources, including marketing opportunities and Mass Cultural Council programs to develop cultural economic development strategies, cultural facilities planning and construction, and more. Village Green. Town of Barnstable Communications 95Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Figure 3 .1 . ArtsBarnstable Town-wide Map of Cultural Resources Figure 3 .2 . Artist Shanties, Hyannis Figure 3 .3 . The Old Jail, Barnstable Village Artist Shanties at Harbor Overlook. Alora Lanzillotta The Old Jail. Alora Lanzillotta 96Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems HyArts Cultural District—The first state- designated cultural district on Cape Cod, the HyArts Cultural District in Hyannis provides arts and cultural experiences, outdoor activities, shopping, and dining. Sites include the JFK Hyannis Museum, Kennedy Legacy Trail, Cape Cod Maritime Museum, the Cultural Center of Cape Cod, and the Zion Union Heritage Museum. While unique shops, boutiques, and galleries are available year-round within the district, seasonal opportunities to enjoy the arts include free outdoor concerts and “Artist Shanties” where local artisans sell hand-made or crafted work (Figure 3.2 – page 96).79 Barnstable Village Cultural District—Located on the north side of Barnstable, this cultural district includes historical buildings, restaurants, locally-owned shops, artist studios and galleries, and musical and theater groups. The district borders Barnstable Harbor, where visitors can learn about the working waterfront, enjoy 79 ArtsBarnstable, “Hyannis HyArts Cultural District.” Accessed February 2023 at https://artsbarnstable.com/destinations/hyarts-district/ 80 Mass Cultural Commission, “Barnstable Village Cultural District.” Accessed February 2023 at https://massculturalcouncil.org/communities/cultural-districts/designated-cultural-districts/ 81 Massachusetts Cultural Council. “Mid-Cape Cultural Council.” Accessed February 2023 at https://massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/mid-cape/ scenic views of Sandy Neck Beach and Sandy Neck Lighthouse, or take part in a variety of educational tours. The district also includes the U.S. Coast Guard Heritage Museum, the oldest wooden jail in the United States (the “Old Jail,” Figure 3.3– page 96), and the Sturgis Library, the oldest library building in the United States.80 Mid-Cape Cultural Council The Mid-Cape Cultural Council is an affiliate of the Massachusetts Cultural Council and awards grants to support community-based cultural proposals within the Towns of Barnstable and Yarmouth. The Council particularly encourages “community programs that build awareness of local heritage, multi-cultural awareness, natural resources or arts [e.g., public art, festivals or concerts]” that fulfill a cultural need of the Mid-Cape region. In FY2023, the Mid-Cape Cultural Council awarded over $27,000 to thirty-one projects, with grants ranging from $360 to $1,500.81 What are Cultural Districts? A cultural district designated under M.G.L. Chapter 10 § 58A acts as a hub of cultural, artistic, and economic activity within a community. Cultural districts are typically easily navigable, compact areas that include a concentration of cultural facilities, activities, and other resources. This designation is awarded by the Mass Cultural Council and serves to drive economic growth; support arts, humanities, and science organizations; and cultivate a local sense of identity and character. Sources: M.G.L. Chapter 10 § 58A and Mass Cultural Council (massculturalcouncil.org/communities/cultural-districts) 97Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Historic Resources Barnstable has submitted documentation for over 2,400 properties to the Massachusetts Historical Commission’s Cultural Resource Information System (MACRIS). These resources date from 1644 to 1995 and include 2,249 buildings, 92 objects, 34 structures, 59 areas, and 18 burial grounds. Maps 3.1 and 3.2 (pages 132 and 133) show the distribution of these resources by type and area throughout the Town. As of May 2023, the Inventory of Archaeological Assets of the Commonwealth defines that there are 99 ancient to early histor- ical period (Paleoindian period through the early 17th century) archaeological sites in Barnstable and 73 historical period (17th through 20th century) archaeological sites.82 National Designations National Historic Landmarks (NHLs) are nationally significant historic places designated by the Secretary of the Interior that illustrate the heri- tage of the United States. Approximately 2,600 historic places in the United States have been honored with this distinction and include historic buildings, sites, structures, objects, and districts. The Kennedy Compound on Irving and Marchant Avenues received NHL designation in 1972 and represents one of two NHLs on Cape Cod.83 The National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) is the official national list of historic places deemed worthy of 82 Values provided by Edward L. Bell, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer, Senior Archaeologist, Massachusetts Historical Commission, May 2023. 83 The Louis Brandeis House in Chatham is the one other NHL on Cape Cod. National Park Service, “List of NHLs by State.” Accessed March 2023 at https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalhistoriclandmarks/list-of-nhls-by-state.htm#onthisPage-21 84 National Park Service, National Register of Historic Places, “National Register Database and Research.” Accessed February 2023 and November 2024 at https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalregister/database-research.htm 85 Massachusetts Historical Commission Historic Inventory (via MassGIS), updated November 2024. 86 Cape Cod Commission, “Old King’s Highway Achieves National Scenic Byway Status,” February 22, 2021. Accessed February 2023 at https://www.capecodcommission.org/about-us/newsroom/old-kings-highway-achieves-national-scenic-byway-status/ preservation. Categories of properties include buildings, districts, sites, structures, objects, and places. Listed places must meet criteria relating to age, structural integrity, and historical significance at the local, state, or national level. The Cape Cod Commission reviews significant changes to, or the demolition of, buildings listed on the National Register, as well as buildings located within a National Register District. Barnstable has fifteen National Register Districts that collectively include over 1,000 properties, as well as an additional sixty-three buildings, three objects, and two sites individually listed on the National Register.84,85 Map 3.3 (page 134) displays National Historic Districts across the Cape and shows that the nationally-recognized historic districts in Barnstable account for 33 percent of such districts in the County. These listings include the portion of Old King’s Highway/Route 6A that runs through Barnstable, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. While the Old King’s Highway Regional Historic District was enacted in 1974, this historic byway covering 34 miles from Sandwich to Orleans received National Scenic Byway status from the U.S Department of Transportation in 2021.86 Local/Regional Historic Districts Barnstable has two historic districts—the Old King's Highway Regional Historic District, which includes all land north of Route 6A, and the Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District. Historic District Commissions review 98Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems project applications relating to construction, demolition, movement, or alteration of external architectural features. The Old King's Highway Regional Historic District is the largest historic district in the nation, running from Sandwich to Orleans. Each Town within the district has their own Historic District Committee. In Barnstable, the Old King's Highway Historic District Committee (OKH Committee) serves this role and reviews applica- tions for any change in the exterior of buildings and structures, fences and signs, and applica- tions for new construction or demolition within the district. The Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District was created in 1996 as part of ongoing efforts to address revitalization and historic preservation in downtown Hyannis. Like the OKH Committee, the Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District Commission (HHDC) is responsible for reviewing applications for new construction, demolition, and changes to the exterior of buildings, structures, or settings within the district, and strives “to create a desir- able place to live, work and enjoy through the preservation, maintenance and improvement of historic vernacular.”87 Barnstable Historical Commission Local historical commissions (LHCs) established under M.G.L. Chapter 40, § 8D are the official municipal agency responsible for historic preservation planning within the community. Established in 1967, the Barnstable Historical Commission (BHC) assists the Town in preserving and protecting historical buildings and settings throughout Barnstable. The BHC focuses on educating the public about town history, inven- tories historic properties, serves an advisory 87 Town of Barnstable, “Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District Commission.” Accessed February 2023 at https://www.town.barnstable.ma.us/boardscommittees/HyannisMainStreet/default. asp?brd=Hyannis+Main+Street+Waterfront+Historic+District+Commission&brdid=13&year=2023 role to the Town Council regarding municipal policies affecting the town’s historic resources, and is responsible for oversight of the Town’s Protection of Historic Properties Ordinance, described below. Since 2010 there have been 177 Demolition Applications approved collectively by the Old King’s Highway Historic District Committee, Hyannis Main Street and Waterfront Historic District Commission and the Barnstable Historical Commission as further defined within Table 3.1 (page 100) . Historical Societies Historical Societies are private, non-profit organi- zations that preserve a community’s historical collections and records. Historical societies often operate local museums and undertake educational programming. All of Barnstable’s villages have historical societies, and the Cotuit, Barnstable, Centerville, and Osterville Historical Societies all operate museums from notable historic buildings. The Barnstable Historical Society, founded in 1939 to represent all of the Town’s seven villages, is located in the historic Phinney-Jones House on Main Street across from the Sturgis Library. The Society’s collection is showcased in nine exhibit rooms and focuses on the maritime and cultural history of the Town from the 18th to early 20th centuries. Protection of Historic Resources Regulatory & Policy Protections—Article I of the Town’s Historic Properties Ordinance, Protection of Historic Properties, imposes a demolition delay of 18 months for “preferably preserved significant buildings.” This designation applies to buildings outside of the Town’s two local historic 99Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems districts but which: are listed or in a pending application for listing on the National Register of Historic Places; are listed on the Massachusetts Register of Historic Places; or are over 75 years of age and determined by the LHC to be histori- cally or architecturally important. This ordinance was recently amended in 2017 to increase the duration of the imposed delay from six months to 18 months. Other regulatory or policy protections for historic resources include: • The Town’s local Wetlands Protection Ordinance requires identification of historic resources located within the affected resource area. • The Town adopted a Scenic Roads Ordinance in 1983 and has sixty-two local roads subject to the ordinance. This designation requires Planning Board approval of alteration or removal of stone walls and the cutting or removal of trees located within the public right-of-way in accordance with defined Table 3 .1 . Approved Demolition Applications Year Barnstable Historical Commission Old King’s Highway Historic District Committee Hyannis Main Street and Waterfront Historic District Commission Total 2022 9 3 1 13 2021 11 8 0 19 2020 5 9 0 14 2019 6 15 0 21 2018 5 3 0 8 2017 9 15 2 26 2016 4 5 1 10 2015 11 1 0 12 2014 7 5 0 12 2013 3 6 1 10 2012 1 8 2 11 2011 3 5 3 11 2010 0 8 2 10 Total 177 Source: Town of Barnstable Planning & Development staff June 2023 100Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems thresholds. Roads receive this designation by Town Council vote. • The Town’s Site Plan Review process requires information on historic resources in the development parcel. • To encourage the preservation of larger, older homes, the Town’s zoning ordinance allows the conversion of single-family homes to bed and breakfast establishments by special permit within several of the Town’s residen- tially zoned districts. • In January 2022, the Town was recognized as a Complete Streets community with an approved Complete Streets Policy that incorporates mindful consideration for prioritization of character and scenic roads. Planning Efforts—The Town’s most recent Historic Preservation Plan was completed in 2010 as an update to previous efforts in 1990 and 1985. The Barnstable Historical Commission commissioned the plan, along with a historic resource inventory of all historic structures 88 Town of Barnstable Community Preservation Committee, “All Community Preservation Fund Appropriations by Town Council Order Through 6/30/21—DRAFT.” Accessed January 2023 at https://www.town.barnstable.ma.us/BoardsCommittees/ CommunityPreservation/CPC_Plan/All-CPA-Appropriations-to-6-30–2021.pdf?tm=3/7/2023%208:09:27%20AM within the Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District and the Growth Incentive Zone. The Historic Preservation Plan includes recom- mendations relating to education and advocacy, regulatory protections for historic resources, and municipal policy and management. Funding for Historic Preservation—Between 2006 and 2021, the Town appropriated $11.4M in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds toward sixty-seven historic preservation projects. Historic preservation represents the most funded CPA project type in Barnstable, with 36 percent of appropriated CPA funds from 2006–2021 going toward this activity compared to 29 percent for open space preservation, 24 percent for community housing, and 11 percent for recreation.88 In addition, the Town received grants through the Massachusetts Historical Commission’s Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund (MPPF), which was established in 1984 as a 50 percent reimbursable matching grant to support the preservation of properties, landscapes, and sites listed in the National Community Preservation Act M.G.L. Chapter 44B, “Community Preservation,” was signed into law in 2000, granting communities the right to raise local property taxes to fund land conservation, historic preservation, and affordable housing efforts. The law also provides significant matching funds to participating communities. Barnstable adopted CPA in 2005 and has allocated over $31.3M in CPA funds from 2006– 2021. Project applications are reviewed by the Town’s Community Preservation Committee (CPC), which then makes recommendations to the Town Manager and Town Council. 101Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Register of Historic Places. Barnstable MPPF- supported projects include the Unitarian Church, Olde Colonial Courthouse, US Custom House and Carriage House, and Barnstable Customs House. People Overview Barnstable is a growing community: it has seen population increases reported in all but one of the last ten decennial Census counts. Most of this growth occurred between 1960 and 2000, particularly the 1970s and 1980s where the population grew by over 10,000 in each decade.89 As Barnstable continues to grow and welcome new residents, the Town has also become more racially and ethnically diverse. In Downtown Hyannis, 48 percent of the population belongs to a racial or ethnic minority as of the 2020 Census compared to 28 percent in 2010.90 The overall concentration of minority populations has not shifted as much, with 41 percent of the Town’s minority population living in Downtown Hyannis as of 2020 compared to 43 percent in 2010. Town-wide, there has been a similar increase in diversity, with 24 percent of the Town’s total population belonging to a racial or ethnic minority in 2020, nearly doubling from 13 percent in 2010.91 89 US Census Bureau, Decennial Census, 1930–2020, via Massachusetts State Data Center/Donahue Institute, UMass President's Office. 90 Census block groups used to define Hyannis/Downtown Hyannis in this section align with the Town’s Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area (NRSA), designated under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The NRSA includes Census Tract 152.02, Block Groups 2, 3, and 4; Census Tract 126.02, Block Groups 2, 3, and 4, and Census Tract 153, Block Groups 2 and 3. 91 US Census Bureau, Decennial Census 2010 and 2020, via Social Explorer. 92 US Census Bureau, Decennial Census 2000–2020, via Social Explorer. 93 At the time of this LCP draft, the complete 2020 Decennial Census was not released in its entirety. The Demographic and Housing Characteristics File is expected to be released May 2023 and will include official average household size. For purposes of this estimate based on Census 2020, the Group Quarters population (651 for Barnstable and 4,423 for Barnstable County) has been subtracted from the Total Population (48,916 for Barnstable and 228,996 for Barnstable County), with the result divided by the number of Occupied Housing Units (20,613 for Barnstable and 103,368 for Barnstable County). Population and Household Sizes Despite a population decrease of 5.5 percent between 2000 and 2010, the 2020 Census indicates that Barnstable’s population has rebounded and once again exceeds the 2000 population. The 2020 Census reported a popula- tion of 48,916. The Town is Barnstable County’s seat and most populous town, accounting for 21.4 percent of the total county population. The number of households counted in Barnstable in 2020 also represents an all-time high at 20,613 households, which is a 7.2 percent increase from Census 2010 counts and 5.0 percent increase from Census 2000 counts.92 The 2020 Census showed modest growth in household size, with an estimated average 2.34 people per household up from 2.33 in 2010. The estimated average household size for Barnstable County 2.17, and of all the Cape Cod communities, only Sandwich has larger average household sizes than Barnstable.93 Population Age Larger household sizes often indicate larger proportions of children in a community, and in Barnstable’s case, this seems to be true. Higher than the county average of 14.3 percent, 16.5 percent of Barnstable’s population is under 18, and only Sandwich has a larger share of children (18.4 percent). Figure 3.4 (page 103) shows age composition among Barnstable residents, where 102Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems the largest age groups are 55 to 64 and under 18 .94 Between 2010 and 2020, the under-18 population dropped by 2.4 percent (198 chil- dren) in Barnstable and 12.2 percent (4,537 chil- dren) across the county. While two communities had small gains in under-18 population (Eastham and Wellfleet), every other Cape community had losses in this age group. Table 3.2 (page 104) shows that by comparison, Barnstable’s loss of population in this age group was relatively small. Enrollment in the Barnstable school district reached a ten-year high in the 2019–2020 school year with 5,041 students, and then dropped 6.5 percent the following year. The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on school enrollment is unclear, but all but one of the elementary schools saw proportionally larger losses in student populations than the Intermediate and 94 The US Census Bureau publishes the decennial Census and the American Community Survey (ACS). The Census includes exact counts, and ACS uses a different sampling method to generate estimates based on a rolling five-year average. This is why there can be discrepancies between these sources. Age data from the 2020 Census is not yet available beyond over/under 18 years old. 95 Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Enrollment Data, 2012–2022. 96 Because the full 2020 Census data is not yet publicly available, age-related data (other than for the under 18 population) are not yet available. Table 3.2 instead uses American Community Survey data and should be reviewed upon release of the full 2020 Census. High Schools.95 Map 3.4 (page 135) displays the concentration of households with children under 18 and shows that Hyannis has the highest percentage of households with children throughout Barnstable. Across the Cape, while numbers of school-age children are decreasing, numbers of older adults are increasing. According to American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates, between 2011 and 2021, there was an 18.8 percent increase in the population 65 and older in Barnstable (1,792 residents) while the overall population increased by an estimated 3,070 residents, so 41.6 percent of Barnstable’s net population growth was among seniors.96 Table 3.3 (page 105) shows that over that same interval, the overall number of seniors on the Cape increased 30.4 percent (16,248 residents), and Map 3.5 (page 136) shows the higher concentration of households with seniors within Osterville. Barnstable also has the youngest population of all its neighbors. The median age for all residents is 47.5, with the median for men at 46.2 and women 48.3. The population age 65 and over is correspondingly the lowest on the entire Cape, at 23.3 percent. The median age for all other Cape jurisdictions is 50 or older, with four towns exceeding a median age of 60. For all other Cape Cod towns except Barnstable, the 65 and above demographic composes a quarter of the population or more. Despite being the youngest town on the Cape, Barnstable is still significantly older than both the state (median age, 39.6; 65 and over, 17.4 percent) and New England overall Figure 3 .4 . Barnstable's Age Composition Source: ACS 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table B01001Under 1818 to 2425 to 3435 to 4445 to 5455 to 6465 to 7475 to 8485+18% 7% 11%11% 13% 17% 14% 6% 3% 103Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Table 3 .2 . Under-18 Population on Cape Cod in 2010 and 2020 2010 2020 Comparison 2010 to 2020 Under 18 All Ages Under 18 / Total Under 18 All Ages Under 18 / Total Difference under 18 Difference All Ages % Change under 18 % Change All Ages Barnstable County 37,249 215,887 17.3%32,712 228,996 14.3%-4,537 13,109 -12.2%6.1% Barnstable 8,284 45,193 18.3%8,086 48,916 16.5%-198 3,723 -2.4%8.2% Bourne 3,642 19,753 18.4%2,922 20,452 14.3%-720 699 -19.8%3.5% Brewster 1,603 9,828 16.3%1,432 10,318 13.9%-171 490 -10.7%5.0% Chatham 749 6,125 12.2%610 6,594 9.3%-139 469 -18.6%7.7% Dennis 1,977 14,207 13.9%1,620 14,674 11.0%-357 467 -18.1%3.3% Eastham 627 4,956 12.7%652 5,752 11.3%25 796 4.0%16.1% Falmouth 5,470 31,531 17.3%4,566 32,517 14.0%-904 986 -16.5%3.1% Harwich 1,970 12,235 16.1%1,856 13,440 13.8%-114 1,205 -5.8%9.8% Mashpee 2,697 14,006 19.3%2,203 15,060 14.6%-494 1,054 -18.3%7.5% Orleans 650 5,890 11.0%641 6,307 10.2%-9 417 -1.4%7.1% Provincetown 201 2,942 6.8%175 3,664 4.8%-26 722 -12.9%24.5% Sandwich 4,986 20,675 24.1%3,729 20,259 18.4%-1,257 -416 -25.2%-2.0% Truro 263 2,003 13.1%248 2,454 10.1%-15 451 -5.7%22.5% Wellfleet 369 2,750 13.4%394 3,566 11.0%25 816 6.8%29.7% Yarmouth 3,761 23,793 15.8%3,578 25,023 14.3%-183 1,230 -4.9%5.2% Source: US Census Bureau, Census 2020 via Social Explorer, Tables T003 and T020; Barrett Planning Group. 104Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Table 3 .3 . Population 65 and Older on Cape Cod in 2011 and 2021 2011 2021 Comparison 2011 to 2021 65 and Older All Ages % Older Adults 65 and Older All Ages % Older Adults Difference in Older Adults % Change Older Adults Barnstable County 53,403 216,639 24.7%69,651 227,942 30.6%16,248 30.4% Barnstable 9,532 45,486 21.0%11,324 48,556 23.3%1,792 18.8% Bourne 3,732 19,632 19.0%5,695 20,364 28.0%1,963 52.6% Brewster 2,679 9,853 27.2%3,607 10,282 35.1%928 34.6% Chatham 2,170 6,177 35.1%3,041 6,554 46.4%871 40.1% Dennis 4,176 14,392 29.0%5,124 14,664 34.9%948 22.7% Eastham 1,545 5,011 30.8%2,202 5,674 38.8%657 42.5% Falmouth 8,342 31,674 26.3%10,390 32,526 31.9%2,048 24.6% Harwich 3,658 12,259 29.8%4,662 13,329 35.0%1,004 27.4% Mashpee 3,212 13,900 23.1%4,305 14,996 28.7%1,093 34.0% Orleans 2,552 5,946 42.9%3,079 6,276 49.1%527 20.7% Provincetown 424 2,994 14.2%1,075 3,582 30.0%651 153.5% Sandwich 2,852 20,635 13.8%5,166 20,369 25.4%2,314 81.1% Truro 416 1,903 21.9%591 1,575 37.5%175 42.1% Wellfleet 1,075 2,858 37.6%1,182 4,305 27.5%107 10.0% Yarmouth 7,038 23,919 29.4%8,208 24,890 33.0%1,170 16.6% Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011 and 2017–2021, Table B01001; Barrett Planning Group. 105Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems 97 US Census Bureau, Census 2020, Table T024. 98 US Census Bureau, Census 2020, Tables T004 and T021. 99 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table B03001. (median age 40.8; 65 and over 16.5 percent). The aging of the community presents both immediate and long-term implications for the local economy. Racial and Ethnic Composition Barnstable is becoming more racially and ethnically diverse. According to Decennial Census figures, in 2010, 89.3 percent of residents were White compared to 77.2 percent in 2020. The population of residents who are of two or more races saw the most growth, accounting for 3.1 percent of residents in 2010 and 11.1 percent in 2020. The Black population grew from 3.0 percent (1,366) to 4.6 percent (2,235) of Barnstable residents. There was a modest increase in the Asian population, from 1.2 to 1.8 percent of residents. The number of people who selected “Other” for race climbed from 1,217 (2.7 percent) to 2,319 (4.7 percent) residents, and there were even more who indicated that they were of more than one race including “Other” increased even more, from 560 to 4,014. The only racial category that saw a decrease in representation between 2010 and 2020 was “American Indian or Alaska Native” alone, which dropped from 280 to 260 individuals.97 The Hispanic population grew from 3.1 percent of the town (1,418) to 5.4 percent (2,626).98 According to the ACS, the largest share of Hispanic residents is Ecuadorian, followed by Dominican, Puerto Rican, and “Other.”99 Among children, these demographic changes are even more apparent: while 83.2 percent of the under-18 population (6,895) was White in 2010, this figure dropped to 64.5 percent (5,215) in 2020. The population of children of more Figure 3 .5 . Racial/Ethnic Demographics of Adults and Children Two orMore Races American Indian/Alaska Native Under 1818 and older Hispanic Black Other Asian Pacific Islander 0.05%0.4%1.6%2.2%0.5%0.05%4.0% 2.7% 4.4% 7.8% 79.0% 62.5% 14.5% 10.3% 6.4% 3.5% White Source: 2020 Census, Tables T022-T023 and T026-T027 106Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems than one race increased from 582 to 1,543.100 Young families choosing to raise their children in Barnstable are likely key to the Town’s increasing diversity. Figure 3.5 (page 106) shows the racial and ethnic demographics of Barnstable’s 18 and older and under 18 populations.101 Nearly one in five Barnstable residents (8,374, 18.0 percent) were born outside the United States. More than three-quarters (78.3 percent) of Barnstable’s foreign-born population is from Latin America.102 Brazil, Jamaica, and Ecuador are residents’ most common countries of origin, and about two-thirds (68.2 percent) of Barnstable’s foreign-born population originates from one of 100 US Census Bureau, Census 2020, Tables T005-007 and T022-024. 101 The Census does not provide a race designation in these tables for Hispanic residents, so these residents are included in their own category in Figure 5.6 for the purpose of illustration. 102 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table B05006. 103 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table B06007. those three countries. While most Barnstable residents speak English at home, 20.3 percent speak languages other than English at home, and 8.9 percent have limited English proficiency.103 Educational Attainment On average, Barnstable residents have slightly less education than Barnstable County as a whole. A high school diploma or equivalent is the highest level of education completed for 43 percent of Barnstable residents, compared to 41 percent throughout the Cape. Just under 40 percent of Barnstable residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher, whereas throughout the county, that figure is about five percentage Figure 3 .6 . Educational Attainment for Barnstable and Barnstable County Residents 25 and Older 10% 20% 25% 15% 5% 0% Less than high school diploma High school diploma or equivalent Some college Associate’s Degree Bachelor’s Degree Masters’s Degree Doctorate or Professional Degree 6.2% 4.3% 22.2% 18.5% 10.1% 24.8% 5.5% 14.5% 25.7% 16.9% 11.7% 22.2% 12.6% 4.8% Barnstable Barnstable County Source: ACS 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table B15003 107Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems points higher (44.9 percent). Figure 3.6 (page 107) compares the educational attainment of Barnstable residents and that of all of Cape Cod. Household Income Household incomes in Barnstable tend to be very similar to those throughout Barnstable County. According to the American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, the median house- hold income in the past 12 months in Barnstable was $82,816, and $82,619 for the county. Figure 3 .7 (above) illustrates the proportion of house- holds in each income bracket (adjusted for infla- tion) for the town and the county in 2011, 2016, 104 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021, Table B19058. and 2021. While the 2011 and 2016 data show very similar distributions with higher numbers of lower-earning households, 2021 incomes show significant growth in higher-earning households, both within Barnstable and across Cape Cod. As incomes in Barnstable and across the Cape are very similar, the proportions of households receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Cash Public Assistance, or Food Stamps/SNAP in the last 12 months are also very close: 7.9 percent of households across the county and 8.1 percent of households in town receive public assistance.104 Like other communities, Barnstable’s increasing share of adults over 65 is reflected in the Figure 3 .7 . Household Income Distribution 2011–2021 for Barnstable and Barnstable County (Inflation-Adjusted) Barnstable County Barnstable Barnstable County Barnstable Barnstable County Barnstable 2011 2016 2021 Less than $30,000 22.7%22.9%21.8%23.2%16.3%15.5% $30,000–$49,999 18.6%17.0%16.8%15.3%13.2%12.7% $50,000–$74,999 18.8%19.5%18.2%21.2%16.3%18.6% $75,000–$99,999 14.4%15.2%14.0%12.4%12.9%11.0% $100,000–$124,999 9.4%9.6%9.8%9.1%9.2%8.8% $125,000–$149,999 5.1%5.0%6.9%6.3%8.6%9.9% $150,000–$199,999 5.9%5.3%6.4%5.9%10.5%12.2% $200,000 or more 5.0%5.3%6.2%6.6%12.9%11.3% Source: ACS 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021, Tables B19055 and B19059 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 108Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems growing percentage of households with retire- ment income or social security income, as shown in Figure 3.8 (below). Nonetheless, Barnstable has one of the lowest percentages of households with retirement income (28.5 percent) and social security income (39.3 percent) among Cape communities, although both figures are still well above Massachusetts estimates (20.2 percent with retirement income and 29.8 percent with social security income). Environmental Justice Areas The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines environmental justice (EJ) as “the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, culture, national origin, income, and educational levels with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of protective environmental 105 US Environmental Protection Agency, “EJ 2020 Glossary,” updated August 18, 2022. 106 MA Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), “Environmental Justice Populations in Massachusetts,” updated January 20, 2023. laws, regulations, and policies.”105 The state of Massachusetts uses demographic data from the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) to identify areas that meet one or more criteria: annual median household incomes are at or below 65 percent of those statewide; racial/ethnic-minority residents make up 40 percent or more of the community; at least a quarter of households speak English less than “very well”; or incomes are at or below 150 percent of statewide annual household incomes and at least 25 percent of residents represent racial/ethnic minorities.106 Of Barnstable’s 38 population-based statistical areas (called Census block groups), twelve meet one or more conditions for EJ designation. These twelve block groups are all situated within or include parts of Hyannis, and they are home to Figure 3 .8 . Households with Social Security or Retirement Income 2011–2021 for Barnstable and Barnstable County 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% Barnstable County Barnstable Barnstable County Barnstable Barnstable County Barnstable 2011 2016 2021 With Social Security Income 41.1%36.9%44.1%39.8%46.1%39.3% With Retirement Income 26.3%22.0%27.2%22.6%34.2%28.5% Source: ACS 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021, Tables B19055 and B19059 109Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems 32.4 percent of Barnstable’s total population.107 Map 3.6 (page 137) displays Barnstable’s Environmental Justice block groups and identi- fies the criteria they meet. Each of the twelve block groups meets the minority population criterion; six also qualify by household income; one also has a population with limited English proficiency; and one, the most densely settled 107 2020 Environmental Justice Populations, MA Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), updated November 2022. 108 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Tables B06007 and B16004. 109 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Tables B23025 and B23027. area of town, south of Route 28/Falmouth Road between Winter Street and Bearses Way and north of Stevens Street, meets all of these criteria. Overall, 8.9 percent of Barnstable’s population identify as speaking English less than “very well,” but in parts of Hyannis, this figure can be more than 300% higher.108 The two Hyannis block groups flagged as EJ populations because of English isolation are Cape Cod’s only areas that received that designation. Local Economy Overview As the largest town on Cape Cod and often referred to as the “downtown” or “heart” of the Cape, Barnstable features a strong and diverse economy year-round as well as during the peak summer season. Labor Force A community’s labor force is defined as all residents aged 16 and older who are classified as either employed or unemployed and actively looking for work. Members of Barnstable’s labor force live in Barnstable but may work elsewhere. Labor force characteristics reflect a community’s level of household wealth, which is a large driver of local economic conditions. According to 2017–2021 ACS estimates, Barnstable’s labor force consists of an estimated 27,344 residents out of the population age 16 and older (40,769), for a labor force participation rate of 67.1 percent, significantly higher than the county at 59.9 percent.109 Barnstable’s higher labor force participation rate makes sense because the share of retired households in Barnstable is Greening the Gateway Cities in EJ Communities In Spring 2022, Barnstable was selected as one of five Gateway Cities to participate in the Greening the Gateway Cities program, which is concentrated in Environmental Justice neighborhoods, and targets areas within gateway cities that have lower tree canopy, older housing stock, higher wind speeds, and a larger renter population. The program plants trees free of charge on eligible properties within active Gateway City planting zones. Source: DCR Massachusetts, “Greening the Gateway Cities” Fact Sheet, available at https://www.mass.gov/doc/greening- the-gateway-cities-program-fact-sheet/ download 110Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems relatively low within the county. Table 3.4 (page 112) shows that communities with higher labor force participation rates tend to have a lower share of retired households, although this is not always the case. Employment Sectors Like nearly all economies, the private sector provides the lion’s share of employment for Barnstable residents, representing 61.2 percent of the employed labor force. Despite being both the largest town on the Cape and the county seat, Barnstable has a lower percentage of workers employed in the public sector (11.8 percent) as compared to the county (12.6 percent) and state (12.4 percent). Barnstable is also an outlier when it comes to self-employment compared to its neighbors; in Barnstable 15.1 percent of all resident workers are self-employed, higher than adjacent commu- nities and well above the state’s rate of 8.7 percent, although in line with the county, also at 15.1 percent.110 Table 3.4 (page 112) shows that some Cape Cod communities have significantly higher rates of self-employment—most notably Brewster, Provincetown, and Sandwich. Education While the “People” section of the Community Systems portion of this plan describes educa- tional attainment of Barnstable’s residents, Table 3.4 (page 112) provides further detail by town. Barnstable is among the lower end of residents age 25+ having earned a bachelor’s degree or higher as compared to other Cape Cod communities. More significantly, based on ACS 2017–2021 estimates, Barnstable has 110 Social Explorer Table A17009 based upon the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021. 111 Department of Elementary and Secondary Education district profiles indicate a 2020–2021 dropout rate of 1.8 percent for the Barnstable Public Schools and a 1.5 percent rate for the state. District profiles show a higher rate for Dennis-Yarmouth in 2020–2021 at 3.1 percent, as well as Falmouth Public Schools at 2.7 percent. All other public school districts on Cape Cod have lower dropout rates than these three districts. Profiles are available at https://profiles.doe.mass.edu. 112 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table B20017. the highest estimated dropout rate among the population ages 16–19 compared to other Cape Cod communities and even the state.111 Industries of Labor Force The top two industries Barnstable residents work in include “Educational Services, and Health Care and Social Assistance” (23.8 percent) and “Construction” (12.5 percent), with the latter representing a significantly larger share of the local labor force compared to the state (5.9 percent). Table 3.5 (page 113) also shows that earnings by industry vary between geographies, although Barnstable residents have lower median earnings across industries than the county and state ($40,276, $40,979, and $48,078, respectively).112 While residents in industries such as “Information,” “Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, And Mining,” and “Wholesale Trade” earn more than their counterparts statewide, for other industries earnings are significantly less, particularly in “Finance and Insurance, Real Estate, and Rental and Leasing” and “Professional, Scientific, Management, and Administrative and Waste Management Services.” Employment Base A community’s employment base includes its wage and salary jobs. People counted in the employment base may or may not live in Barnstable and the employment base does not include self-employed people. Several industries dominate employment in Barnstable: Educational Services and Health Care and Social Assistance (30.5 percent of local jobs); Retail Trade (17.3 percent); and Arts, Entertainment, 111Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Table 3 .4 . Select Labor Force Characteristics across Cape Cod Labor Force Participation Characteristics Employment Characteristics Educational Characteristics Labor Force Participation Rate % Households w/ Retirement Income % Working in Town of Residence % Self- Employed Dropout Rate for Population Ages 16–19 Bachelor’s Degree or Higher, Massachusetts 67.2%20.2%35.6%8.7%2.8%45.2% Barnstable County 59.9%34.2%42.6%15.1%1.9%44.9% Barnstable 67.1%28.5%54.0%15.1%3.9%39.6% Bourne 63.2%31.8%31.8%13.6%2.4%43.4% Brewster 54.6%42.5%24.7%23.3%0.5%44.9% Chatham 45.3%39.3%49.0%19.0%0.4%62.6% Dennis 55.9%37.0%32.1%13.9%<0.0%39.3% Eastham 50.7%43.5%32.6%16.9%<0.0%47.2% Falmouth 56.7%33.3%58.4%15.2%3.3%50.1% Harwich 59.4%36.4%34.7%14.4%<0.0%44.9% Mashpee 61.0%30.7%34.2%11.4%0.8%39.4% Orleans 47.9%38.7%48.0%8.7%<0.0%60.4% Provincetown 62.6%26.5%69.1%23.4%<0.0%57.6% Sandwich 65.5%36.8%30.2%28.9%<0.0%48.1% Truro 64.8%31.7%51.6%11.3%<0.0%56.5% Wellfleet 52.4%32.6%44.8%15.1%<0.0%52.5% Yarmouth 57.6%38.9%35.3%21.6%0.1%39.5% Sources: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Tables B08008 and B15003, and Social Explorer ACS Tables A10015, A12003, A17002, and A17009. 112Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Table 3 .5 . Percent Labor Force and Median Earnings by Industry for the Civilian Employed Population 16 Years and Older % Labor Force Median Earnings Industry Barnstable Barnstable County MA Barnstable Barnstable County MA Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, And Mining 0.5%0.8%0.4%$63,633 $47,670 $50,705 Construction 12.5%10.1%5.9%$47,073 $55,103 $65,723 Manufacturing 5.5%4.6%8.9%$58,906 $68,789 $75,174 Wholesale Trade 2.2%2.2%2.1%$76,650 $71,496 $64,824 Retail Trade 11.0%12.4%10.0%$53,365 $49,585 $51,288 Transportation And Warehousing, And Utilities 3.5%3.8%4.1%$64,795 $64,118 $63,973 Information 1.9%1.8%2.2%$122,716 $77,041 $88,210 Finance And Insurance, And Real Estate, And Rental and Leasing 6.3%6.1%7.3%$60,592 $73,875 $88,086 Professional, Scientific, And Management, And Administrative, And Waste Management Services 11.6%12.9%14.8%$60,841 $75,614 $92,228 Educational Services, And Health Care and Social Assistance 23.8%24.4%28.1%$64,459 $65,486 $64,654 Arts, Entertainment, And Recreation, And Accommodation and Food Services 10.0%11.2%7.9%$39,102 $43,727 $41,083 Other Services, Except Public Administration 5.8%4.9%4.3%$44,830 $50,712 $49,544 Public Administration 5.3%5.0%3.9%$78,967 $82,254 $81,646 Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Tables B24041 and C24050. 113Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems and Recreation and Accommodation and Food Services (14.2 percent). Leisure and hospitality service industries are among the strongest in Barnstable, but also have the lowest average weekly wages. Compared to the weekly wage average of $1,187 across industries for Barnstable’s employment base, Accommodation and Food Services workers earn $615, while 113 Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), “Employment and Wages,” (ES-202), 2021 Annual Reports for Barnstable, Barnstable County, and Massachusetts. Retail Trade workers earn $798.113 These sectors were also significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and are also susceptible to other economic shocks, particularly those that have an outsized impact on tourism. Table 3 .6 . Location Quotients for Select Industries Share of Jobs (Average Monthly Employment)Location Quotients Description Barnstable Barnstable County MA Barnstable Barnstable County Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, And Mining 0.7%0.7%0.7%0.93 0.95 Construction 6.0%7.9%5.1%0.75 1.17 Manufacturing 2.9%2.5%6.7%1.16 0.44 Wholesale Trade 2.0%1.8%3.4%1.12 0.58 Retail Trade 17.3%16.1%9.6%1.07 1.80 Transportation And Warehousing, And Utilities 3.4%3.2%3.6%1.08 0.94 Information 1.2%1.3%2.9%0.89 0.42 Finance And Insurance, And Real Estate, And Rental and Leasing 5.4%3.8%6.2%1.41 0.87 Professional, Scientific, And Management, And Administrative, And Waste Management Services 7.0%10.3%17.8%0.68 0.39 Educational Services, And Health Care and Social Assistance 30.5%23.9%28.5%1.28 1.07 Arts, Entertainment, And Recreation, And Accommodation and Food Services 14.2%19.2%8.8%0.74 1.62 Other Services, Except Public Administration 4.6%3.8%3.1%1.22 1.50 Public Administration 5.0%5.7%4.0%0.87 1.24 Source: Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), “Employment and Wages,” (ES-202), 2021 Annual Reports for Barnstable, Barnstable County, and Massachusetts. 114Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Location quotients (LQ) indicate the strength of local industries by comparing a community’s employment base with that of a larger geographic area, called a “reference economy.” The proportion of jobs in each industry in the community weighted against the proportion of jobs in those industries in the larger reference economy results in a ratio that sheds light on the unique employment characteristics of a community. Generally, a ratio between 0.90 and 1.10 means the proportion of jobs per industry is similar between the compared geographies, and a ratio below 0.85 or over 1.15 points to a noteworthy difference. The higher the ratio, the stronger the industry is in the community. Table 3 .6 (page 114) reports location quotients for Barnstable’s employment base, considering two reference economies: Barnstable County and Massachusetts. For Barnstable, the LQs show some local industries may be relatively weak compared to one reference economy, yet strong compared to the other. For example, Finance and Insurance, Real Estate, Rental and Leasing is a strong local industry in Barnstable compared to the county (LQ: 1.41) but weaker when compared to the state (LQ: 0.87). Arts, Entertainment, Recreation, and Accommodation and Food Services in Barnstable is weaker compared to the county (LQ: 0.74) but strong compared to the state (LQ: 1.62). Seasonality of Employment Base While these figures provide a yearly picture of employment and wages in Barnstable, seasonal fluctuations occur—more significantly for some industries than others. Overall, there is a marked increase in jobs within Barnstable during the summer tourist season based on ES202 Employment and Wage data from the Massachusetts Department of Economic Research. Figure 3.9 (page 116) shows that January 2021 had the lowest level of employment that year at 23,776 jobs in Barnstable. By the Fishermen Training Program. Josie Santos 115Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems July peak there were 28,611 jobs, a 20 percent increase compared to January. This seasonal trend is even more pronounced in sectors that are especially dependent on the tourism industry, such as entertainment, retail, transportation, and hospitality. While the retail industry sees a bump in employment approaching the winter holiday season, it does not match the strength and growth of the peak summer season. Barnstable County sees similar seasonal trends, with a 34 percent increase in jobs between a February 2021 low (79,019) and a July 2021 high (106,434).114 Employers The ten largest employers in town as defined in the Town’s 2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report are: • Cape Cod Healthcare: 2,548 employees • Town of Barnstable: 1,331 employees 114 Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), “Employment and Wages,” (ES-202), 2021 Annual Reports for Barnstable and Barnstable County. 115 Town of Barnstable Finance Department, Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Year Ended June 30, 2022, p.157. 116 Ibid. • Cape Cod Community College: 514 employees • Cape Air: 306 employees • Barnstable County: 250 employees • Macy’s (2 stores): 230 employees • The Cape Codder Resort & Spa: 200 employees • Stop & Shop in Hyannis: 185 employees • Stop & Shop in Marstons Mills: 161 employees • Cape Cod Times: 135 employees115 Collectively, these ten employers represent a quarter of the Town’s employment base, with Cape Cod Health alone employing over 11 percent.116 Figure 3 .9 . Seasonal Shifts in Local Employment within Barnstable, 2021 Jan-21Monthly Employment23,000 24,000 25,000 26,000 27,000 28,000 29,000 Feb-21 Mar-21 Apr-21 May-21 Jun-21 Jul-21 Aug-21 Sep-21 Oct-21 Nov-21 Dec-21 28,312 26,678 26,573 26,173 25,998 23,776 23,999 24,308 25,473 26,329 27,603 28,611 Sources: Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), “Employment and Wages,” (ES-202), 2021 Annual Report for Barnstable 116Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Jobs to Workers The ratio of the employment base (i.e., jobs in a community) to the labor force (i.e., resident workers) indicates whether a town serves as an importer or exporter of jobs within a particular industry and provides insight as to how easily residents can find local employment in their industries of choice. Where the ratio of available jobs to residents who work in that industry is higher than 1.0, that industry is a net importer of jobs to the community; conversely, where the ratio is less than 1.0, there are more resident workers in the industry than there are jobs available, making the industry a net exporter of jobs. Table 3.6 (page 114) shows that most industries are net exporters of jobs, meaning more residents leave town to work in their industry. The top three net importers of jobs are Retail Trade; Arts, Entertainment, Recreation, and Accommodation and Food Services; and Educational Services, Health Care and Social Assistance. These industries largely align with Barnstable’s largest employers described in the previous chapter. Table 3 .7 . Jobs to Resident Workers Description # Local Jobs # Resident Workers Difference Ratio Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, And Mining 181 143 38 1.266 Construction 1,559 3,311 -1752 0.471 Manufacturing 770 1,460 -690 0.527 Wholesale Trade 520 575 -55 0.904 Retail Trade 4,519 2,907 1612 1.555 Transportation And Warehousing, And Utilities 895 919 -24 0.974 Information 313 514 -201 0.609 Finance And Insurance, And Real Estate, And Rental and Leasing 1,408 1,669 -261 0.844 Professional, Scientific, And Management, And Administrative, And Waste Management Services 1828 3,056 -1228 0.598 Educational Services, And Health Care and Social Assistance 7,973 6,295 1678 1.267 Arts, Entertainment, And Recreation, And Accommodation and Food Services 3,701 2,633 1068 1.406 Other Services, Except Public Administration 1,211 1,543 -332 0.785 Public Administration 1,302 1,410 -108 0.923 Source: Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), “Employment and Wages,” (ES-202), 2021 Annual Report for Barnstable; US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table C24050. 117Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Commuting Patterns As shown previously in Table 3.3 (page 105), Barnstable has a higher crossover between its labor force and employment base than most Cape communities, with an estimated 54 percent of its employed residents working in town. This is also reflected in commuter patterns shown in the Census Bureau’s Commuting Flows, which are derived from American Community Survey data. While the most recently available Commuting Flows data are based on the 2011–2015 ACS, they still support this finding, showing that an estimated 51.9 percent of working residents commute within Barnstable. The next largest destination for Barnstable residents is Yarmouth, where 13.0 percent of residents work, followed by Mashpee at 4.6 percent. Inbound commuters going to work in Barnstable come from a similar profile of Cape and regional communities, reflecting Barnstable’s position as the Cape’s major hub. Barnstable residents make up an estimated 45.6 percent of the town’s employment base, with Yarmouth residents accounting for 11.6 117 US Census Bureau, 2011–2015 5-Year ACS Commuting Flows. 118 Cape and Islands Workforce Board, “About.” Accessed March 2023 at https://masshire-capeandislandswb.com/about/ percent and Sandwich residents making up 7.5 percent.117 Barnstable residents and the workers employed in Barnstable most commonly drive alone to work for transportation, as shown in Table 3.8 (above) . Economic Development Resources Education and Workforce Development The Cape & Islands Workforce Board (CIWB) is a private non-profit corporation responsible for overseeing all publicly funded vocational education and training programs serving the entire Cape and the Islands. As their name suggests, CIWB covers all the communities in Barnstable, Dukes, and Nantucket counties. The CIWB is one of sixteen workforce boards across Massachusetts, all of which work in collaboration with the US Department of Labor’s One Stop Career Center system. These workforce boards carry out the mandates of the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).118 The CIWB’s Board of Directors includes a range of members representing various affiliations, including the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, Table 3 .8 . Means of Transportation to Work Out of every 100 working Barnstable residents…Out of every 100 workers in Barnstable… 74 drive alone 79 drive alone 10 carpool 8 carpool 1 takes public transportation 0–1 take public transportation 3 walk 3 walk 1-2 take some other means of transportation 0–1 take some other means of transportation 10 work from home 9 work from home Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Tables B08301 and B08406 118Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Cape Cod Community College, two regional technical high schools, the MA Department of Transitional Assistance, and many more.119 The CIWB recently issued its WIOA Local Plan for Fiscal Years 2022–2025, which identified health- care and social assistance; construction; profes- sional, scientific, and technical services; and hospitality/tourism as the industries most vital to the region’s economic health. The group also highlighted the importance of the Blue Economy, which refers to industries dependent or related to the ocean like fishing, marinas, environmental conservation, and boat charters.120 The plan also noted the following challenges of the Cape & Islands workforce area: • There is a lack of regional transportation options, with limited transit and bus service. • The Cape and Islands is the oldest regional labor market in the state; which can result in a depleted workforce and limited possibility for the expansion of pipeline growth. • Housing costs remain high and inventory low. • The Cape and Islands region has a limited number of training providers within the region.121 The CIWB’s 2018 Regional Workforce Blueprint is included as an appendix to the WIOA Local Plan. This blueprint noted existing shortages in several industries: food preparation and service; building and grounds cleaning maintenance; personal care and service occupations in the health care sector; office and administrative 119 Cape and Islands Workforce Board, “Board of Directors.” Accessed March 2023 at https://masshire-capeandislandswb.com/about/board-of-directors/ 120 Cape and Islands Workforce Board, WIOA Local Plan, Fiscal Years 2022–2025, p.4–5. Available at https://masshire-capeandislandswb.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/MassHire-CIWB-FY22-25-WIOA-Local-4-Year-Plan.pdf 121 Ibid., p.15 122 Cape and Islands Workforce Board, The Cape & Islands Regional Workforce Blueprint, 2018, p11. Available as an Appendix within the WIOA Local Plan referenced above. 123 Ibid., p.18–19 support occupations in the health care sector; and education, training, and library occupa- tions.122 Looking into the future, the CIWB WIOA Local Plan prioritizes hospitality, healthcare, and construction as three core industries given their growth among regional occupations and their ability to support the Blue Economy.123 Business Barnstable Like its cultural counterpart Arts Barnstable, Business Barnstable is Town-sponsored program supported by the Planning & Development Department. This resource acts as a recruitment tool for drawing businesses to Barnstable and includes an online directory of assistance, resources, grants, and incentives for businesses, information about housing opportunities, and a GIS-based commercial site finder, plans and reports. In Spring 2023 the website received roughly 4,000 visits per month and the Business Barnstable Newsletter has more than 1,000 subscribers. Regulatory Tools Commercial Districts Barnstable’s seven villages provide a wide range of commercial and industrial district settings for businesses. The commercial and industrial districts are designated by the Town’s zoning ordinances. All of the villages contain commer- cially zoned land parcels, though Cotuit only has one commercial parcel in this classification, adja- cent to Marstons Mills and connected to one of its commercial districts. The main industrial zone 119Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems is in Hyannis and Barnstable Village, centered on an area near the airport north of Route 132 and south of Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway. The largest commercial district is in Hyannis, centered on downtown and westward down Main Street toward Barnstable High School. Job intensity is strongest in Hyannis and along the Route 132/Route 28 corridor. Growth Incentive Zone The Downtown Hyannis Growth Incentive Zone serves to encourage a concentrated mix of residential and commercial uses within Hyannis. Certain projects within the GIZ are exempt from Cape Cod Commission regulatory review. The Town’s GIZ was enacted in 2006, extended in 2016, and re-designated in 2018.124 Regulatory Agreements Chapter 168 of the Town’s General Ordinances outlines the Town’s procedures for Regulatory Agreements, flexible tools that allow develop- ment that would otherwise be prohibited by zoning and streamline the permitting process. In return, developers agree to provide benefits to the Town, including infrastructure, land preserva- tion, affordable housing, or other resources that enhance both the development and the Town. Regulatory Agreements require Planning Board and Town Council approval and can occur in areas designated on the Regulatory Agreement Districts Map, most recently updated in 2018.125 124 Business Barnstable, “Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ).” Accessed March 2023 at https://businessbarnstable.com/growth-incentive-zone-giz/ 125 Business Barnstable, “Regulatory Agreements.” Accessed March 2023 at https://businessbarnstable.com/regulatory-agreements/ 126 Hyannis Main Street, “BID Programs.” Accessed March 2023 at http://www.hyannismainstreet.com/hyannis-main-street-business-improvement-district/bid-programs/ 127 Business Barnstable, “Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP).” Accessed March 2023 at https://businessbarnstable.com/economic-development-incentive-program-edip/ Business Improvement District Established in 1999 as authorized under M.G.L. Chapter 40O, the Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District is a special assessment district whereby a common area fee is levied on properties within its boundaries to finance supplemental enhancements above the baseline provided by municipal services. The Hyannis Main Street BID has used these funds to organize and sponsor events, support the addition of a police station to Main Street, work with home- less social programs, leverage funding for new lights, support maintenance and beautification projects including flower planters and seasonal street decorations, increase and improve signs and banners along Main Street, and more.126 Taxes and Finances In addition to offering a lower tax rate for commercial and industrial properties, Barnstable enters into Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreements on a case-by-case basis to support investment for development and redevelopment projects. Participating businesses may receive state tax credits or local property tax incentives in exchange for a commitment to new job creation, existing job retention, and private investment in the project.127 In addition, the Hyannis Opportunity Zone provides federal tax incentives for private enti- ties to reinvest capital gains into projects within the federally designated area. 120Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Housing Overview Barnstable’s housing environment is largely defined by its seasonal economy, natural resources, demographic trends, and regional market forces. Housing Types An estimated 85 percent of Barnstable’s housing stock is single-family units, most of which are detached homes. Because most of Barnstable’s multifamily housing is in Hyannis, the split there is more even, with 60 percent of units being single-family and 40 percent multi-family.128 The village of Barnstable and more specifically Independence Park also has a significant amount of multifamily housing including Village Green, Everleigh Cape Cod, Carriage House and Hanover Hyannis. Map 3.7 (page 138) displays housing units by type based on Fiscal Year 2022 Assessor’s records and shows the spread of single-family units throughout town, and Table 3.9 (above) shows housing types by land use code.129 Many of the properties with multiple homes on one parcel are in waterfront areas along the coast and on major ponds, while multifamily housing is more concentrated in Hyannis. Housing Trends and Needs Seasonal Housing According to the Town’s assessing data, there is a total of 23,676 housing units in Barnstable, excluding apartment units, as of June 2023. Of the total housing units, 11,631 residential 128 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table B25024. 129 Differences between the Assessor’s records and ACS estimates occur because the Assessor’s records are based on individual properties, some of which have multiple units in multifamily buildings, whereas the ACS estimates are based on the units themselves. 130 Housing Units Data and Residential Exemption provided by R. Lane Partridge, Director of Assessing. 131 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Table B25004. properties receive residential exemption.130 The remaining 12,045 properties do not receive a residential exemption; the total percentage of homes in Barnstable that are not occupied by year-round homeowners could be as high as 50.8 percent. The rate of second homes in Massachusetts is 4.1 percent and the rate for all Barnstable County is 36.3 percent.131 This varies significantly across communities on Cape Cod, as shown in Figure 3.10 (page 122) . All of the Outer Cape (Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown), Orleans on the Lower Cape, and Dennis on the Mid Cape all have more second homes than first homes. For purposes Table 3 .9 . Residential Land Uses by Parcel Parcels Percent Single Family 21,068 88.1% Condos 1,746 7.3% Two Family 248 1.0% Three Family 25 0.1% Multiple Houses on One Parcel 556 2.3% Apartments 4-8 Units 69 0.3% Apartments More Than 8 Units 29 0.1% Mixed Use with Some Residential 93 0.4% Housing Authority 82 0.3% Total 23,916 Source: FY2022 Assessor’s Records, Town of Barnstable, via MassGIS 121Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems of reporting to the US Census Bureau, these second homes are considered vacant, which means communities with a higher share of second homes appear to have high vacancy rates. Thus, while Barnstable’s total vacancy rate is an estimated 27.1 percent, vacancy rates for year-round units are estimated at 1.2 percent for ownership units and 8.2 percent for rental units.132 As of May 2023, short-term rentals compose approximately 3.5 percent of Barnstable’s total housing units, excluding apartments. In August 2022, the peak value for actively advertised short-term rentals was 818 rentals. Of the nearly 800 rentals actively advertised in July 132 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021, Tables B25003 and B25004. 133 STR Values provided by Jeff Carter, Deputy Director, Building Division, taken from Host Compliance. 134 Tax revenues provided by Mark Milne, Director of Finance. 135 This section is based upon data from FY2022 Assessor’s Records for the Town of Barnstable, accessed via MassGIS. 2022, 39 percent were in Hyannis, 22 percent in Centerville, 13 percent in Osterville, 10 percent in Barnstable Village, 7 percent in Cotuit, 6 percent in Marstons Mills, and 3 percent in West Barnstable.133 Since short-term rental taxes were implemented on July 1, 2019, the Town has collected over $3million in tax revenue. Short- term rental tax revenues totaled $528,735 in FY2020, $1,512,208 in FY2021, and $1,729,592 in FY2022.134 Single Family Homes135 Table 3.9 (page 121) includes information about the Town’s detached single-family homes, which represent most of Barnstable’s housing stock. Seventy-one percent of existing single-family Figure 3 .10 . Percent Year-Round Housing Units vs . Second Homes Year-Round Housing Units (Occupied and Vacant) Second Homes (Units for Seasonal, Recreational, or Occassional Use) 100%MassachusettsBarnstable CountyBarnstableBourneBrewsterChathamDennisEastha,mFalmouthHarwichMashpeeOrleansProvincetownSandwichTruroWellfleetYarmouth75% 75% 50% 50% 25% 25% 0% Source: ACS 5-Year Estimates, 2017–2021 Table B25004 122Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Figure 3 .11 . Styles of Single Family Homes in Barnstable Cape CodRanchColonialConventionalModern/ContemporaryGambrelRaised RanchSaltboxCottageOther7,753 7,734 1,991 619 495 417 346 170 135 1,4041,500 3,000 4,500 6,000 7,500 Source: FY2022 Assessor's Records, Town of Barnstable, via MassGIS Table 3 .10 . Summary of Single-Family Homes in Barnstable Year Built Entries Avg. # Rooms Average Stories Average Res. Building Area Avg. Lot Size (Acres) Average Total Assessed Value Avg. IVLVR % Homes with IVLVR <1.0 Most Common Style Pre-1865 404 8 .3 1 .8 2,501 1 .22 $824,705 1 .10 27%Conventional 1865-1899 269 8 .3 1 .8 2,398 0 .87 $1,035,818 0 .79 48%Conventional 1900–1919 392 7 .4 1 .7 2,188 1 .11 $1,024,650 0 .67 49%Conventional 1920–1939 1,041 6 .7 1 .6 1,810 0 .68 $769,009 0 .75 38%Conventional 1940–1959 2,282 6 .1 1 .3 1,544 0 .53 $547,317 0 .98 26%Ranch 1960–1979 7,473 6 .3 1 .3 1,598 0 .53 $473,799 1 .71 8%Ranch 1980–1999 7,491 6 .6 1 .5 1,931 0 .75 $593,035 1 .92 5%Cape Cod 2000–2021 1,712 7 .4 1 .7 2,843 0 .94 $1,202,954 1 .60 10%Cape Cod Source: FY2022 Assessor’s Records, Town of Barnstable, via MassGIS 123Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems homes in Barnstable were built between 1960 and 2000, coinciding with a boom in population growth on Cape Cod during this time. The average lot size, building area, number of rooms, and building height were at their smallest from 1940 until 1980 when these features began trending back upward again as the Cape-style home became more popular than smaller ranch homes. Assessed values on average are highest for older homes built before 1920 and again from 2000 onward. However, the source of the higher assessed values differs between the older and newer housing stock; in older homes, the value tends to be associated with the land, as many of these homes are built on larger lots closer to the coast while the buildings themselves may not hold much value compared to newer buildings. Many newer homes built in the 2000s are much larger on average (although very old 19th century homes also were quite large), and 90 percent of these single-family homes have improvement value to land value ratios (IVLVR) over 1.0. “Improvements” on assessed properties refers to everything but the land— buildings, structures, driveways, etc. When the IVLVR is above 1.0, the value of the building and other improvements is greater than the land itself; conversely, when the IVLVR is below 1.0, the land value exceeds building value. The latter is fairly common on older homes located in desirable areas of a community, as is true for Barnstable. In Barnstable, properties holding comparatively greater land value are more commonly found among homes built before 1960, likely because these homes would have been developed on the “easier” or otherwise desirable areas first, and are also more common in coastal areas (see Map 3.8 – page 139, Map 3 .9 – page 140, and Table 3.9 – page 121). Despite the apparent high number of “conven- tional”-style homes based on Table 3.9 (page 121), the most common styles among single family homes are Cape- and ranch-style homes due to the popularity of the style during the times when population growth increased the most rapidly in Barnstable. Figure 3.11 (page Figure 3 .12 . Residential Building Permits, 2012—2021 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 0 Demolitions Rebuilds New Dwellings 56 50 65 83 94 58 60 43 28 33 38 18 29 19 2529242826 1922 49 64 48 47 71 63 50 77 56 Town of Barnstable Annual Reports 124Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems 123) shows the popularity of different styles among Barnstable’s single-family homes. Unit Size & Household Size On average, Barnstable homes currently have more bedrooms than the number of people living within the homes. An estimated 68 percent of Barnstable households are one or two people, and 69 percent of the Town’s homes have at least three bedrooms. This discrepancy is more apparent among owner households; an estimated 70 percent of households are one or two people while 81 percent of the owner-occu- pied units have at least three bedrooms.136 Development As discussed in the Land Use and Development Trends section, overall new residential development has slowed since 2000, which matches a slower period of population growth in addition to the Town’s 2001 adoption of the Growth Management Ordinance.137 Renovations and additions remain popular, with an average of 1,490 building permits for renovations or additions issued during the ten-year period from 2012–2021.138 In the five-year period from 2017–2021, demolition permits exceeded new dwelling permits each year, with an average of 58 demolition permits issued annually from 2012–2021. Rebuilds lag somewhat behind demolitions, with an average of less than one rebuild permit for every two demolition permits issued from 2012–2021. Figure 3.12 (page 124) displays these trends over a ten-year period from 2012–2021. 136 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2017–2021, Tables B25009 and B25042. 137 As noted in the Land Use and Development Trends section, the limit on building permits issued annually under the Growth Management Ordinance has not been met or exceeded since its adoption. 138 Data provided by the Town of Barnstable Building Department 139 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021, Table B25003. 140 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021, Table B25118. 141 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021, Table B25064. Tenure & Income The Town saw an estimated 3 percent increase in renter-occupied housing between 2011 and 2021 based on ACS estimates.139 Across the Cape, about four of every five households own their own homes (80.8 percent), whereas in Barnstable, three of every four households (75.6 percent) own their homes. While renter households in Barnstable increased from 4,686 to 4,809 households, across the county, renter households dropped from 19,531 to 18,864.140 Barnstable incomes largely follow county trends, and that includes a stark contrast in the incomes of homeowner and renter households. Figure 3.13 (page 126) illustrates that in 2011, more than a third of renter households had incomes less than $25,000; in 2021, the proportion of renter households earning less than $25,000 has dropped between seven and eight percentage points for the Town and county alike. In 2021, there were significantly fewer renters in the income groups below $50,000 in Barnstable and throughout Barnstable County, but the Town saw gains of even greater proportion in the highest income group. This suggests that low-income renters are being priced out of the rental market. Growth in gross median rent confirms this trend: while the county saw an average increase of 28.1 percent in gross median rent, Barnstable’s increase notably outpaced the county’s at 40.3 percent.141 Median gross rent does not fully show the strains placed on those renting market rate units, as the median gross rent includes rent paid by those in affordable units or with other subsidies. 125Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Those looking to purchase a home in Barnstable are similarly faced with rising costs, with the median sales price of a single-family home in Barnstable growing 26 percent between 2020 and 2021.142 Nonetheless, renter households are more likely to experience need, with one in three Barnstable homeowners considered cost-burdened compared to one in two renters. In Barnstable, 35 percent of households are spending more than 30 percent of their monthly income on housing costs. For low- and moder- ate-income earners, this number jumps to an estimated 64 percent.143 142 Banker & Tradesman/The Warren Group. “Town Stats: Barnstable, MA—Median Sales Price—Calendar Year.” Report pulled March 2023. The median sales price for a single-family home in Barnstable for 2020 was $539,500 compared to $680,000 in 2021 and $775,000 in 2022. 143 US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data, 2015–2019. Affordable Housing Subsidized Housing Inventory—Under M.G.L. Chapter 40B, an affordable housing unit has its affordability secured for households earning at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) by a long-term use restriction and is made available to eligible households through an approved affirmative marketing plan that meets Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) guidelines. Upon approval by DHCD, housing that meets these requirements is added to the Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI), a list of housing units that “count” toward a community’s 10 percent statutory minimum of affordable year-round Figure 3 .13 . Household Income Distribution 2011–2021 for Barnstable and Barnstable County (Inflation-Adjusted) 10% 20% 30% 40% Source: ACS 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011 and 2017–2021, Table B25118 Owner Renter Owner Renter Owner Renter Owner Renter 2011 2021 2011 2021 Barnstable County Barnstable Less than $25,000 13.7%37.1%9.0%29.3%13.7%34.8%7.5%27.3% $25,000–$49,999 20.6%31.9%14.4%25.7%19.0%29.0%13.4%23.4% $50,000–$74,999 19.7%15.4%16.1%17.2%21.0%14.7%17.9%20.9% $75,000–$99,999 16.0%8.4%13.2%11.7%16.4%11.2%12.1%7.6% $100,000–$149,999 16.9%5.1%19.9%9.0%16.7%8.1%21.8%8.8% $150,000 or more 13.1%2.1%27.4%7.0%13.2%2.1%27.3%11.9% 126Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems units under Chapter 40B. The percentage is determined by dividing the number of SHI-eligible affordable units by the number of year-round housing units based upon the most recent decennial Census. Because Census 2020 year-round housing counts are not yet available, DHCD still uses 2010 Census figures. In 2022, 7.23 percent (1,485 units) of Barnstable’s year-round housing stock was included on the Town’s Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI). A total of 103 properties are single units permitted through the Town’s Accessory Affordable Apartment Program. Under this program, the Town permits the unit through a Comprehensive Permit through the Zoning Board of Appeals. That unit is rent-restricted and is rented to low- and moderately low-income households via DHCD’s income guidelines. Barnstable Housing Authority—The Barnstable Housing Authority (BHA), based in Hyannis, manages and operates local public housing and housing voucher programs to provide safe and affordable rental housing for eligible families, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities. Public housing programs include rental units owned and managed by the BHA, as well as voucher programs that subsidize household rents paid to private landlords. The Barnstable Housing Authority owns a total of 376 housing units, with 103 affordable family units, 221 affordable units dedicated to elderly and young disabled people, and 52 units for special needs housing throughout town. In addition to these properties, the BHA also manages nine affordable family units for Cape Ministry and facilitates over 650 subsidies for state and federal programs. Eligibility for the range of Barnstable Housing Authority programs is determined through an application process that accounts for characteristics including gross annual income, age, ability, and citizenship. Families are granted the highest priority based on application criteria to direct limited resources to those experiencing intense need. Residents may stay in public housing or voucher programs as long as they continue meeting eligibility criteria and comply with leases but may choose to leave if affordable housing becomes available through the private market. During the recently completed consultation process for the development of Barnstable County’s HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, the BHA reported that they had 845 applications for the local lists they manage, with a need for all bedroom sizes and all ages. This is in addition to applicants for BHA housing from the state’s What is Cost Burden? Cost burden is defined as paying more than 30 percent of one’s household income toward select housing costs (including utilities), while severe cost burden is defined as paying more than 50 percent. This metric is particularly important for understanding the needs of low-to- moderate income households, defined as those earning no more than 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI), determined annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the region. 127Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems online waiting list, which was up to 14,305 applicants, including 7,224 families applying for 1–4-bedroom units, 490 congregate applicants, 1,178 elderly applicants, and 1,942 disabled applicants. There were also 6,904 applicants for BHA’s Alternative Housing Voucher Program (for young disabled) at the time of the consultation process.144, 145 Due to the state’s use of a central- ized waiting list, these numbers could represent households from off Cape Cod, and there is no way to determine exactly how long applicants will be waiting for a unit. Homelessness—In February 2022, the Cape Cod & Islands Continuum of Care conducted its annual Point in Time (PIT) count, a HUD-mandated one-night annual snapshot of homelessness within a designated geography. The 2022 PIT count identified 250 individuals experiencing homelessness in Barnstable, out 144 Barnstable County HOME Consortium, HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, March 2023 Draft for HUD Submission, p.45. Prepared for Barnstable County by Barrett Planning Group LLC. 145 The HOME-ARP program was authorized under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and allocated $5 billion to fund shelter, housing, and services for homeless and at-risk populations. Jurisdictions participating in the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program, a block grant program to fund low-to-moderate income housing, are eligible to receive HOME-ARP funds upon successful HUD approval of an Allocation Plan. Barnstable County is eligible to receive $1.5M under HOME-ARP. 146 MA-503 Cape Cod and Islands CoC, 2022 PIT Count Location Summary of a total of 397 individuals throughout the Cape & Islands. While most of those counted were either in emergency shelter or transitional housing, there were 12 unsheltered individuals in Hyannis (Figure 3.14 – page 129).146 During the consultation process for the HOME-ARP Allocation plan, numerous providers spoke to the challenges with the PIT count and its unreliability as a measure of need. In addition to it only accounting for one night, it fails to capture households who are “couch surfing” or doubling up with another family, nor does it include those who are homeless but staying in a hotel or motel at their own expense. The Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) provides additional insight, as it includes client-level data for participants enrolled in programs to support homeless or at-risk populations. One such HUD program is called The Importance of the Year-Round Housing Count under Chapter 40B Communities with a high share of second homes conversely have a lower share of year-round units. For purposes of calculating a community’s percentage of affordable units under M.G.L. Chapter 40B, the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) determines the year-round housing count by subtracting units considered vacant because they are for “seasonal, recreational, or occasional use” from the total housing unit count. In communities that do not have a strong tourism-based economy or a high share of second homeowners, the year-round housing count does not differ markedly from the total housing unit count, however, for much of Cape Cod, the difference is significant. 128Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Street Outreach, which is designed to meet the immediate needs of unsheltered homeless popu- lation by providing non-facility-based care. The Housing Assistance Corporation (HAC) adminis- ters one of two Street Outreach programs on the Cape & Islands, with Vinfen administering the second. HAC reported that their Street Outreach program had 205 unduplicated clients from October 2021 to October 2022—much higher than the 35 unsheltered individuals reported on the night of the PIT count.147 While presumably 147 Barnstable County HOME Consortium, HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, March 2023 Draft for HUD Submission, p.27. Prepared for Barnstable County by Barrett Planning Group LLC. 148 Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, 2021–2022 McKinney Vento Homeless Data Report. Report shared by email from the Department on September 20, 2022. not all 205 clients were in Barnstable, the significant difference between the PIT and HAC’s Street Outreach program indicate that the actual unsheltered count in Barnstable is likely much higher than twelve. School districts provide additional data on homelessness, as they are required to report the number of homeless students to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education each year to ensure compliance with federal laws relating to the education of homeless youth. Under the McKinney-Vento Act, school districts must provide resources to ensure the education of homeless youth enrolled in the district, including transportation to and from the district they were enrolled in prior to becoming homeless. For the 2021–2022 academic year, there were 107 homeless youth enrolled in the Barnstable Public Schools. Under McKinney-Vento, students who are doubling up with another family or staying in a hotel/motel without a voucher are considered homeless. This definition does not qualify them as homeless for purposes of the PIT count, which explains why the number of homeless youths reported by the school districts is higher than the PIT count.148 Resources to Address Housing Needs Barnstable has numerous local and regional resources for implementation of affordable housing initiatives including Barnstable Housing Authority, Barnstable Council on Aging, Cape Cod Commission, and multiple nonprofit organizations. Barnstable has access to a wide range of affordable housing advocates and experts working with the homeless, seniors, victims of domestic abuse, and the disabled, as Figure 3 .14 . Homeless Individuals in Barnstable, 2022 81 Transitional Housing 74 Emergency Shelter – Family 73 Emergency Shelter – Individual 12 Unsheltered 10 Emergency Shelter – Motel Source: 2022 PIT Count, Cape Cod & Islands Continuum of Care 129Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems well as families and other individuals in need of affordable housing.149 Local Resources The Housing and Community Development Program and the Accessory Affordable Apartment Program are housed under the umbrella of the Barnstable Planning and Development Department. Specific initiatives of the Housing & Community Development Program including affordable housing preservation and produc- tion, Community Development Block Grant Administration, promoting home ownership opportunities, and administration of the Housing Development Incentive Program, a Gateway Cities program offering tax relief for the creation of market-rate rental units. Since its inception in 2000, the Accessory Affordable Apartment Program’s main objective has been to use existing housing stock to provide affordable housing. Other municipal housing strategies include zoning initiatives, such as the adoption of a town-wide Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance and revisions to the Downtown Hyannis zoning districts (the Growth Incentive Zone) to promote mixed use and multi-family development. This Program also partners with other Town departments to explore appropriate uses of municipal property for affordable housing. Barnstable Housing Authority was established in 1948 and is not only an important partner in developing in new units of affordable housing for individuals and families, but also managing such units and administering important rental subsidies that enable lower-income families and individuals to remain in the community by renting units in the private housing stock. 149 Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, 2021–2022 McKinney Vento Homeless Data Report. Report shared by email from the Department on September 20, 2022, p. 115. 150 Town of Barnstable Community Preservation Committee Annual Plan, Fiscal Year 2022, p.11–12 Barnstable Housing Committee’s purpose is to promote the production and preservation of balanced housing resources that address the unmet needs of the Town of Barnstable. In addition to the Local Action Unit work, the Housing Committee is currently working on an Inclusionary Zoning Feasibility Analysis, partnering on updating the Housing Production Plan, and exploring a tax exemption for those who participate in the Affordable Accessory Apartment program. Barnstable Affordable Housing Growth & Development Trust Fund provides funding for the preservation and creation of affordable housing in the Town of Barnstable for the benefit of low- and moderate-income households. Community Preservation Committee (CPC) is charged with recommending the expenditure of funds generated from the Community Preservation Act that was approved by the residents of the Town of Barnstable in 2005. The CPC has priorities related to housing that include but are not limited to affordable rental projects in areas outside of Hyannis, projects that propose the creation of affordable and community housing homeownership units in Hyannis, projects that convert existing buildings and structures into new affordable/community housing units, and projects that provide housing to vulnerable populations and offer supportive services.150 The Committee also works with the Town’s Affordable Housing Trust to actively promote and produce community housing projects. Barnstable Council on Aging is a Town depart ment that supports the quality of life of the community’s elderly through a wide variety of services. 130Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Regional Resources The Cape Cod Commission supports the advancement of regional efforts to create affordable housing and support housing where appropriate through the facilitation of a Regional Housing Market Analysis and by drafting model zoning (such as the model bylaw for ADUs). Barnstable County HOME Consortium consists of the 15 communities on Cape Cod and is eligible to receive and disburse federal HOME funds, which are federal formula grant funds provided to state and local governments exclusively for the creation and preservation of affordable housing for low-income households. Housing Assistance Corporation was founded in 1974 to provide rental vouchers to year-round workers on Cape Cod; it expanded over the years to include the Cape, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. HAC serves more than 6,000 households each year in three main areas: homeless prevention, housing stabilization, and empowerment.151 Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod is an ecumen- ical, nonprofit Christian ministry dedicated to building simple, decent homes in partnership with families in need. Barnstable County Human Services coordinates regional work on homelessness and administers grant-funded programs of regional impact. This County Department has recently taken over administration and oversight of the HOME Program funds on behalf of the Barnstable County HOME Consortium. 151 Housing Assistance Corporation, “About Housing Assistance Corporation.” Accessed March 2023 at https://haconcapecod.org/about/ Cape and Islands Regional Network on Homelessness carries out the responsibilities of the HUD Continuum of Care Program. The Community Action Committee of Cape Cod and the Islands, Inc. efforts are focused primarily in the areas of access to health insurance and care, immigration resources, coordinating subsidized food (SNAP) assistance, income tax preparation, emergency assistance, seasonal assistance, and an emergency shelter for women and children. Homeless Prevention Council’s mission is to provide personalized case management solutions to promote stability for all those who live in the Lower Cape communities. Located in Hyannis, Living Independently Forever (LIFE), Inc. is a private, nonprofit organization that provides support and resources in the areas of vocation, education, social and community involvement, and daily living, encouraging each resident’s aspirations, strengths, and abilities. CapeAbilities (formerly Nauset, Inc.) provides housing, jobs, and therapeutic services for individuals with developmental disabilities on the Cape. The Cape Head Injured Persons’ (CHIP) Housing and Education Group provides support and assistance for head-injured residents of Cape Cod and is committed to providing communi- ty-based housing for these individuals. Champ Homes provides multi-generational housing for individuals who are physically disabled, in recovery from drug or alcohol abuse, mentally ill, or have other assorted needs. 131Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Map 3 .1 . Historic and Cultural Resources by Resource Type 132Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Map 3 .2 . Historic and Cultural Resources by Areas 133Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems WAREHAM YARMOUTH BOURNE CHATHAM DENNIS DUXBURY EASTHAM MASHPEE GOSNOLD ORLEANS FALMOUTH MARSHFIELD BREWSTER HARWICH CARVER PROVINCETOWN PLYMOUTH WELLFLEET TRURO SANDWICH Source: Town of Barnstable, U.S. Census Bureau, MassGIS, and MassDOT. 0 84Miles¯ Town of Barnstable Town of Barnstable Surrounding Towns Cape Cod Towns NRHP Areas Map 3 .3 . National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) 134Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Map 3 .4 . Households with Children 135Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Map 3 .5 . Households with Someone 65 Years or Older 136Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Map 3 .6 . Environmental Justice Block Groups (2020) 137Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Map 3 .7 . Housing Types 138Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Map 3 .8 . Age of Housing 139Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Map 3 .9 . Single Family Homes Improvement Value to Land Value Ratio 140Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Community Systems Key Issues & Opportunities Building upon the community outreach, the Existing Conditions, and the community Vision Statement, the Key Issues and Opportunities takes a deeper dive into specific topics including land use, housing, natural resources, infrastructure, facilities, economic development and culture, heritage and design . Each chapter defines actions achieved since the prior Local Comprehensive Plan, defines applicable issues and opportunities supplemented with climate resiliency and public health highlights and includes an illustrative fact sheet that captures significant data points. Additionally, each chapter includes topic and location specific goals and actions recommended to be achieved over the next 10 or so years. The chapters were informed by presentations from Town staff and regional experts which are summarized within the Appendix. 141Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Key Issues & Opportunities CHAPTER 4Land Use Vision Statement »Protect and improve the quality and quantity of our drinking water. »Prepare and adapt to climate impacts including sea level rise. »Build on our outstanding recreational opportunities and enhance access to open spaces while also ensuring no environmental harm as recommended by the open space and recreation plan. »Incentivize redevelopment and encourage new development toward locations with adequate infrastructure and away from environmentally sensitive areas town-wide. 142 CHAPTER XChapter Title Barnstable Village. Alora Lanzillotta 143Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Land Use4 Why Land Use Matters Land use and development lives at the intersection of natural, built, and community systems. Decisions about land use directly impact the protection of our sensitive environmental areas and waterbodies; the most efficient, effective, and resilient locations for development, redevelopment, and infrastructure; and where people live and work, how they can travel from place to place, and how they interact with one another in a community. This chapter acknowledges that change is inevitable. In some places, change should be managed to protect environmental, historic, and cultural resources and long-term public health and wellbeing. In other places, change should be managed to help provide space for the types of development the Town needs to thrive into the future, including addressing the local housing crisis and supporting a vibrant mix of employment and recreation opportunities. This chapter looks at anticipated changes across this spectrum and identifies strategies needed to successfully manage conservation, redevelop- ment, infill, and economic opportunities. This chapter provides direction for town-wide land use issues, as well as direction around different land use types, ranging from natural and rural landscapes to denser commercial corridors and town and village centers. Please see the Land Use and Development section (page 59) under Chapter 2: Built Systems of the Existing Conditions Report for information on existing land use, development trends, and the Town’s current land use manage- ment tools and policies. Land Use Actions Since 2010 The Town of Barnstable last adopted its Local Comprehensive Plan in 2010. A great deal of work was put into the development of that plan, and it has been actively implemented over the past fourteen years. Below is a high-level overview of some notable implementation achievements. Zoning As will be discussed further below, one of the most important components of the Land Use chapter is to identify areas of town where contextually appropriate land use outcomes are desired and to make recommendations accordingly for changes to land use policy, including zoning. The 2010 LCP had many recommendations around zoning reform that have been implemented since then. Centerville Village District of Critical Planning Concern (DCPC) Centerville Village This ordinance was adopted in 2009 and has an emphasis on preserving and respecting the historic nature of the Centerville village. It allows for a mix of single-family homes, small-scale retail and services, office, and mixed use, with apartments allowed as accessory uses. The Centerville Village DCPC includes design guide- lines for all new development and additions. Corporate branding is prohibited and there is 144Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use flexibility for dimensional requirements through the special permit process. Barnstable Village Business District (VB-A Business District) Significant amendments were made to this district in 2010. Barnstable Village allows for a mix of single-family homes, retail, office, and services, with apartments allowed as accessory uses on upper floors and limits “formula” businesses and corporate branding. Marstons Mills Village District (MMVD) This ordinance was adopted in 2010. Marstons Mills Village allows for a mix of single-family homes, retail, office, services, and mixed use, with apartments allowed as accessory uses. Larger- scale mixed use is allowed with performance standards, and there are design guidelines for all new development and additions. Corporate branding is prohibited but there is flexibility for dimensional requirements through the special permit process. Non-conforming uses may not be replaced by another non-conforming use. West Barnstable Village Business District (WBVBD) This ordinance was adopted in 2011. The West Barnstable Village Business District allows for a mix of single-family homes, small-scale retail, and office, with service businesses allowed by Route 149 Marstons Mills. Town of Barnstable Communications 145Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use special permit. Larger-scale mixed use is allowed with performance standards, and there are design guidelines for all new development and additions. Corporate branding is prohibited, and non-conforming uses may not be replaced by another non-conforming use. Craigville Beach District of Critical Planning Concern (DCPC) Craigville Beach This ordinance was adopted in 2011 and has an emphasis on flood control and groundwater maintenance and recharge for properties surrounding the Centerville River. The DCPC is divided into four “neighborhood overlays” for Craigville Village, Craigville Beach, Long Beach/ Short Beach, and Centerville River North Bank. Each neighborhood overlay has its own use regulations and performance standards aimed at preservation and protecting each area’s unique built and environmental characteristics. Route 6 Interchange/Route 132 The Business and Highway Business Districts were expanded northward on Route 132 between 2014 and 2016 creating a new commer- cial node that supports a number of financial institutions and other professional office uses. Highway Business Zoning Districts The Highway Business Zoning District, which includes commercial corridors on West Main Street, Route 132, and Route 28 in Hyannis and Centerville was amended in 2019 to allow expanded commercial uses by-right, as well as multi-family residential and mixed-use develop- ment by-right. Mixed Use Subzone, Medical Services Overlay District An area in the Regional Economic Center, on land formerly belonging to Cape Cod Hospital, was rezoned in 2021 to allow four-story multi- family residential development. Shopping Center Overlay Amendments Zoning amendments were approved on land belonging to the Cape Cod Mall to allow multi- family residential development, hotels, offices and reduced parking requirements in 2022 to support the existing commercial district. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance This town-wide ordinance was adopted in 2022. It allows up to one ADU on a lot with a single-family dwelling, with a maximum of up to two bedrooms and 900 square feet (or ½ the habitable floor area of the primary dwelling, whichever is less). ADUs must be rented for at least a period of 12 consecutive months and only the ADU or the principal dwelling can be rented at any one time. Downtown Hyannis Zoning Districts The prior Downtown Hyannis Zoning Districts were repealed and replaced with this new ordinance in 2023 to incorporate aspects of “form-based code” which pertains only to the Downtown Hyannis Zoning Districts, and not the remainder of the Town. Like the prior code which it amends, the new code regulates both uses as well as size, form, and bulk. The intent of the code is to foster a predictable built environment through redevelopment and preservation and provide a high-quality public realm by regulating the form, placement, design and massing of a building while continuing to regulate land uses but through broader use cate- gories. This fine-grained zoning, which strictly applies to Downtown Hyannis, acknowledges that even within a relatively small area there are several different conditions that call for different development standards. The two core downtown Districts, Downtown Main Street and Downtown Village, are intended to promote mixed-use and multi-family development and a continuation of a walkable, pedestrian-oriented downtown environment with a continuous active 146Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use streetscape. Surrounding districts support this core and encourage traditional neighborhood development patterns, residential infill, and support community transportation and health care institutions present in the downtown. Preservation One of the major goals of the 2010 LCP was to expand the protected open space and recreational land. Significant progress has been made on this front over the past thirteen years as noted in the table below. As can be seen in the tables on page 148, both protected open space and recreational/ public lands have increased since 2010. Each of the categories under protected open space and recreational/public lands increased with the exception of municipal use with a 5.97% reduction and schools with a 31.12% reduction. Protected open space increased modestly with an overall increase of 562.04 acres (+5.20%) whereas recreation/public lands increased significantly with an overall increase of 1,846.39 acres (+68.35%). State land saw the largest increase, both in acres and as a percentage (+38%). Most recreation and public land types have seen an even greater increase, though some have decreased or remained the same. Overall, such lands increased by over 68%. Public trusts led this change, increasing by over 1,200 acres from just under 80 acres in 2010. Other state lands have also increased significantly (+221%), as have town recreation land and facilities (+264%). Schools and other municipal uses lost a total of approximately 145 acres over this time. Policies, Priorities & Plans Several plans and policies in support of the LCP have been adopted since 2010. Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) First approved in 2006, the Downtown Hyannis Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) was reauthorized with the Cape Cod Commission in 2018. The GIZ has been the primary area in the Town designated for growth, both residential and commercial, as outlined in the 2010 LCP. A “GIZ” is a planning tool that allows communities to exempt certain development activities from Cape Cod Commission regulatory review. The intent is to encourage residential and commer- cial development and redevelopment supported by community amenities and appropriate infrastructure. The GIZ gives the Town more local control over decision making in downtown Hyannis and makes development easier and more attractive by eliminating the step of Cape Cod Commission review. The GIZ is supported by the Downtown Hyannis Zoning Districts described above. Mass Audubon Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary. Alora Lanzillotta 147Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Table 4 .2 . Recreation Land, Other Open Space and Public Land (acres) 2010 2023 Change Town Cemeteries 166 .07 166 .07 0 Public Trusts 79 .17 1,311.40 1,232.23 Town Recreation Land & Facilities 112 .94 411 .45 298 .51 Beaches & Public Landings 145 .14 145 .14 0 Municipal Use 934 .46 878 .65 -55 .81 Schools 289 .73 199 .56 -90 .17 Airport 602 .77 616 .03 13 .26 Housing Authority 54 .50 65 .06 10 .56 Barnstable County Land & Facilities 123 .11 135 .68 12 .57 State Land 192 .22 617 .46 425 .24 Federal Land 1 .15 1 .15 0 Total Recreation and Other 2,701.26 4,547.65 1,846.39 Table 4 .1 . Protected Open Space (acres) 2010 2023 Change Conservation Land 6,349.26 6,449.85 100 .59 Land Bank/CPA 960 .06 1,037.57 77 .51 Private Open Space 1,181.51 1,311.4 129 .89 State Land 447 .35 617 .46 170 .11 Conservation Restriction 438 .39 516 .82 78 .43 Municipal Water District 233 .51 237 .75 4 .24 Non-Municipal Water Districts 1,188.60 1,189.87 1 .27 Total Protected 10,798.68 11,360.72 562.04 Source: Town of Barnstable October 2023 Summary of Open Space and Recreation Land 148Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Please see the Land Use and Development section (page 59) under Chapter 2: Built Systems of the Existing Conditions Report for more information on the GIZ. Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) The CWMP, adopted in 2020, is a plan to protect Barnstable’s coastal waters, ponds, and drinking water by managing nutrient pollution from wastewater. To accomplish this, the plan calls for an expansion of the Town’s wastewater infra- structure (e.g. sewers) as well as other innova- tive and nature-based approaches such as inlet dredging, cranberry bog conversions, and use of nitrogen-removing septic systems. The 30-year plan is comprised of three 10-year phases, predominantly focused on sewer expansion. By reducing nutrient pollution in embayments, the plan protects water quality in ponds and drinking water sources and is also designed to provide the wastewater infrastructure needed to support community economic development and affordable housing needs. Please see the Wastewater Management section (page 71) under Chapter 2: Built Systems of the Existing Conditions Report for more information on the CWMP. Revisions to Cape Cod Commission Review Thresholds (Chapter H) The Town was granted approval from the Cape Cod Commission to raise Development of Regional Impact (DRI) project thresholds in the mapped Economic Centers and Industrial Service & Trade Areas outside of the Growth Incentive Zone in Hyannis. See the boundaries of these areas in Map 4.3 (page 160) on page 160. Like this GIZ, a DRI allows for more development to be reviewed and approved directly by the Town rather than going through the Cape Cod Commission. The Town may now review commercial and industrial devel- opment proposals in the Economic Center up to 20,000 SF (from 10,000 SF) and in the Industrial Service & Trade Area up to 40,000 SF (from 10,000 SF). This amendment seeks to make the permitting process more efficient for such developments and make it easier to attract the types of devel- opment the Town wants where it wants it. Issues & Opportunities This plan is built around the collective needs and desires of the community. Through multiple public meetings, surveys, interviews, and focus groups, the Town gathered feedback on what is working in Barnstable, what is not, and what changes residents want to see. This feedback is what has guided the development of Goals, Actions, and Strategies throughout this plan. Townwide Issues and Opportunities for Land Use The overall land use management approach for Barnstable encourages growth and redevelopment in locations where more intense development is appropriate and viable because of available roadways, wastewater, and other infrastructure, including broadband and telecommunications, and because the location minimizes impacts on open space and sensitive natural resources. This strategy helps reduce, and where possible even reverse, sprawling land development patterns and promotes a land use pattern that respects the past, supports today’s vibrant multi-faceted community, and allows thorough and careful preparation for future needs. Below is a discussion of some of the most important land use issues and opportunities that have townwide implications. 149Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use The Zoning Ordinance is the primary land use regulation in Barnstable. It contains provisions for land use in all zoning districts as well as for non-conforming uses and use variances. Each Local Comprehensive Plan update is an opportu- nity to take a look at the Zoning Ordinance with fresh eyes. The LCP identifies where changes to land use policy will be beneficial and help the Town reach its various goals. Some of these changes to land use policy will result in changes to the Zoning Ordinance. In brief, zoning should be revised to allow what the Town wants where it wants it and to prohibit uses where they are not desired. The goal is to increase certainty and consistency, and not to rely on incentives or negotiations with property owners or developers to achieve goals of the community. It is also good practice to review and analyze the Zoning Ordinance periodically for opportunities to condense and streamline, incorporate a more user-friendly format, correct and update refer- ences, and ensure compliance with state law. Issues and Opportunities for Different Land Use Types Barnstable has arguably the most diverse array of land uses of any municipality on Cape Cod. While the most populous town on the Cape, Barnstable is home to a variety of important water, coastal, wetland, wildlife, historic, and open space resources with coastline on Cape Cod Bay to the north and Nantucket Sound to the south. The Town grew up around seven village centers, and these villages continue to play a large role in defining the life of the community. Additionally, Barnstable is home to some of the most concentrated and intensive development on Cape Cod, with denser housing, commerce and retail, industrial areas, and regional services such as the Cape Cod Gateway Airport, Cape Cod Community College, Cape Cod Hospital, Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority Hyannis Transportation Center, ferry terminals to the Islands, and a network of working waterfronts. Compact Development The 2010 Local Comprehensive Plan supports a policy of compact development, a smart growth approach that concentrates development where infrastructure can be efficiently provided and access to transportation is readily available. Infill, mixed-use development, development of previ- ously developed underutilized land, and cluster development are forms of compact development. Development outside of areas with opportunities to walk to shopping, work, recreation, and other necessary pursuits is, by its nature, more demanding on our resources than is development in the Downtown Hyannis area and other areas long targeted by the Town for growth. Infill and Redevelopment Infill and redevelopment of existing developed commercial areas is the Town’s preferred form of compact development. Working with stake- holders, the Town reviewed existing conditions and regulations in the GIZ and many of the village districts. Together, they analyzed infrastructure and regulatory needs; developed necessary infrastructure plans; and provided standards for community character and traffic management. The goal was to create an environment where businesses can thrive; infrastructure is improved or upgraded; and residents can access goods and services in a safe, efficient manner. Infill and redevelopment provide opportunities to improve overall design for better function and community character enhancement. Site design, building design, and landscaping are all important components of these regulations. Interconnection of adjacent properties, 150Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use 77.9% (30,408.92 acres) of the Town is within the Resources Protection Overlay District (RPOD).1 The RPOD is designed to protect groundwater quality, reduce nitrogen contamination, and reduce development potential to be more in line with infrastructure capacity. 1.4% (539.08 acres) of the Town is within the Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ).1 The GIZ has been the primary area in the Town designated for growth, both residential and commercial. Approximately 30% of the Town's 60 square miles of land area is permanently protected open space .3 11,469 acres of permanently protected open space. FACT SHEET SOURCES 1 Geographic Information System (GIS) July 2024 2 Town of Barnstable Geographic Information System (GIS) November 2024 3 MassGIS, “Protected and Recreational Open Space” August 2022. Land Use Fact Sheet There are 25,961 parcels that have been developed in the Town.2 parcels with buildings25k 5k 10k 15k 20k 1750 1800 1850 1900 1950 2025 151Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use transportation corridor access management, and streetscape and site enhancements are consid- ered, and the permit process has been clarified and simplified. The Town consequently amended plans and zoning for the villages and in early 2023, adopted a more “form-based” code for the GIZ (see more on this below in the subsections on the GIZ and Village Centers). Zoning reform is an iterative process. As the Town continues to implement the GIZ and Village Centers standards, they should be periodically assessed for further improvement and refinement. There are many issues and opportunities related to these land use types, and many of the Policies and Strategies below are designed to be specific to certain land use types. The section discusses these specific land use types and provides policy direction for land use decisions looking forward. Natural Areas Natural Areas are generally the Town’s least developed and most sensitive areas. While Barnstable is the most populous and also one of the most built out municipalities on the Cape, it has a wealth of natural areas such as Sandy Neck, the Great Marsh, and other local and privately held conservation lands. Sensitive habitat areas have also decreased in Barnstable, primarily from residential development pressure. These areas are increasingly subject to change from development impacts, stormwater runoff, wastewater discharge, recreational users, and climate change. The Town has many opportunities to strategically expand protected natural areas in an effort to connect core sensitive habitat and establish Choosing land use without considering the natural environment, such as encouraging development along an eroding coastline, can make the natural and built environments seem like they are working against each other. Sandy Neck Beach. Alora Lanzillotta 152Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use a better-connected network of natural areas. Where connections are needed in developed areas, strategies for implementation may include easements on portions of developed lands or even purchasing and reverting developed lands to open space. Rural Development Areas Rural Development Areas are defined by a high percentage of open lands and sparse building development patterns that contribute to the unique rural and scenic character of the region. Areas such as West Barnstable, larger lot areas around village centers, and the Town’s few remaining agricultural areas and farms all contribute to the Town’s rural character. While active agriculture has been on the decline in Barnstable for many years, the demand for locally grown produce, dairy products, and meats is growing on Cape Cod. This presents an opportunity to strengthen local agriculture. However, development pressure, primarily from the residential market, represents more value for these lands than agricultural uses do. Ordinances, regulations, and policies should be reviewed to ensure that maximum protection is afforded to agricultural uses and that incentives are in place to help maintain existing farms and put properties with prime agricultural soils back into active agricultural use. Lower-Density Residential Areas Lower-Density Residential Areas include resi- dential neighborhoods built primarily between the 1950s and 1990s. Comprising the majority of the Town’s land area, these districts should be periodically analyzed for inappropriate use allowances, redevelopment permitting, open space and recreation needs, affordable housing development, transportation improvements, and heritage preservation. Depending on location, new residential development and expansion of existing residential development may be very limited by mandatory compliance with state and federal nitrogen discharge limits as established by the Massachusetts Estuaries Program. There are opportunities in these areas to manage existing development, actively guide redevelopment, and plan for necessary capital improvements. Historic Areas Historic Areas consist of concentrations of historic structures, including local and/or National Register districts located in a small-scale village setting. Particularly notable historic areas in Barnstable are found in and around the village centers of Barnstable, Centerville, Cotuit, Craigville, Hyannis, Hyannisport, Osterville, and West Barnstable. These areas include not only historic buildings, but cemeteries, landscape features, and viewsheds. Preserving these resources is an opportunity for the Town to main- tain its heritage and culture, while continuing to be a unique draw for the tourism economy. Maritime Areas Maritime Areas are clusters of commercial and mixed-use development that contribute to Cape Cod’s working waterfronts and harbors. Barnstable is home to some of the most active maritime areas on the Cape, including produc- tive fishing industries, commuter and visitor ferry service, sightseeing boats, recreational marinas, and more. Barnstable Harbor, Hyannis Harbor, West Bay in Osterville, and multiple other marinas and yacht clubs provide jobs, attract tourists, and are an integral part of the local culture and quality of life. Harbors and marinas provide opportunities for traditional fishing and shellfishing activities and the growing recreational boating public. 153Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Water-dependent industries such as boat yards, sail lofts, and other water-dependent uses should be retained and supported, both for their economic and historic/cultural importance. There have been and naturally will continue to be conflicts between the working waterfront and recreational boating. The Town must continue to pursue policies that balance these competing interests. Regional Economic Center This area of Hyannis is characterized by larger-scale commercial and light-industrial uses, with the potential to be interspersed with higher density residential development. This area serves an important role in the regional economy, providing goods and services, year- round employment, and economic stability and sustainability in a region that can be dominated by seasonal fluctuations in the economy. This area includes land designated as centers for industrial activity, suitable for industrial uses and emerging industries. The introduction of multi-family development in these areas may provide a larger, local customer base for businesses in a location that generally has the infrastructure capacity to support much needed housing diversity. For planning purposes, this area is split into two sections: the largely commercial area around Cape Cod Mall and the Landing at Hyannis, and the industrial area to the north. The Town recognizes that this area has potential to grow and change under existing regulations. There are opportunities to further amend existing regulations to better manage traffic, economic development, groundwater protection, and community character in this area. Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) Please see more information on the GIZ and the Downtown Hyannis Zoning Districts under the Land Use Actions Since 2010 section (page 144). A special note on regional transportation: The Cape Cod Gateway Airport, as a regional transportation hub, provides many opportunities for collaboration. Moving passengers from the terminal to the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority’s Hyannis Transportation Center and island ferry terminals by transit to alleviate some Airport Rotary traffic, providing better airport services to area residents, and ensuring maximum protection of water supply from aircraft and vehicle fueling and repair operations are areas for mutual exploration and cooperation. Village Centers Barnstable is made up of seven villages: Barnstable Village, Centerville, Cotuit, Hyannis, Marstons Mills, Osterville, and West Barnstable. Each of these villages has distinct needs for growth management, historic preservation, businesses, housing, and environmental concerns. Public meetings were held to get feedback specific to each village center. Issues and opportunities for each of the seven village centers are summarized below. Hyannis Village Hyannis, which also includes the Hyannis Port and West Hyannisport neighborhoods, is the economic center of the region, with a historic Main Street and working waterfront . Hyannis is home to a wide array of key cultural, Land use choices shape what communities look and feel like. They determine how people can get around, what their homes look like, and where they can live, work, and play. 154Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use transportation and commercial assets, retail and professional services, comprehensive health services, and hospitality sectors. Hyannis is a thriving tourism destination with a vibrant arts and culture community and multi-cultural and diverse neighborhoods. Barnstable Village Barnstable Village is quintessential Cape Cod. The historic landscapes and views are closely tied with the identity of the Town and County. They are the foundation of the visitor economy and the perception of the Town as a desirable place to live. Barnstable Village's historic resources remain largely intact and highly valued. The village recognizes that its historic resources are most important to its character and to the economy of the town but sees opportunities to expand locally serving businesses and improve walking and biking infrastructure. Centerville The "village assets" of Centerville are numerous, ranging from the beauty and charm of its Main Street to the sunset at Craigville Beach. The traditional New England image is present throughout much of the Village, making it one of the most desirable villages for year-round and summer residents and a destination for leisure travelers. Most of its historic buildings and scenic areas remain intact. The riverways and inland water bodies provide natural focal points. However, there are opportunities to address traffic calming and pedestrian safety issues. Cotuit Cotuit's peninsular location and intimate relationship with the sea is one of its greatest assets, has shaped its history, and now creates some of its biggest challenges. In addition to its treasured waters, the residents of Cotuit put an extremely high premium on open areas, and there are opportunities to improve water quality in the area and expand recreational offerings. Marstons Mills Village residents describe Marstons Mills as having a rural village character that they value and wish to retain. Marstons Mills is one of the more rural of the Barnstable villages. The center of the village has retained its traditional uses, including retail. Three community buildings, the library, Liberty Hall, and the Methodist church form a little community center off the main commercial center of the village. Town-owned lands in the area provide scenic views of the open rural character reminiscent of the old Marstons Mills and are identifying features of this village, and indeed of the whole town. Residents would Town of Barnstable Signage. Town of Barnstable Communications 155Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use like to see more activities for children and young families and are concerned about families being priced out of the housing market. Additionally, residents seek enhanced connectivity to retail and commercial services on Route 28. Osterville The seaside village of Osterville’s distinct areas include the more rural northern area along Bumps River Road, Tower Hill, East Bay, the village center, Seapuit, Osterville Harbor and the historic area of Wianno, and the island communities of Little Island and Grand Island (Oyster Harbors). The village’s shoreline encircles a network of protected waters and barrier beaches, and there are several hundred acres of conservation land in and around Osterville. Residents see an opportunity to continue investing in the public realm and public facilities, such as the library, beaches, sidewalks, and youth activities. West Barnstable West Barnstable has several community facilities including the library, community building, and softball field, all of which are actively used. Residents want the village to retain its rural and historic character. Protection of old farms is of concern to longtime residents, many of whom do not wish to see the old farmlands subdivided and developed. Residents want to see better walkability and maintenance of sidewalks. Many are concerned about the increased cost of housing as well as water quality and water availability protection. Dowses Beach. Town of Barnstable Communications 156Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Commercial Nodes Barnstable has many largely auto-centric commercial corridors, including the Highway Commercial District located within the GIZ. Beyond this area, other stretches of Route 28/ Falmouth Road, Route 132 Iyannough Road, and West Main Street serve people both locally and from across the region. Route 28 Node This east west regional route traverses low and medium density residential development interspersed with scattered non-residential uses, intensely developed highway business areas, and the regional commercial center arranged along the eastern portion of the corridor. There is significant opportunity for growth in the commercial nodes along this corridor, both resi- dential and non-residential. Goals for this area include managing existing development, actively guiding infill and redevelopment to address parking, screening and roadway access issues, and detailed planning for capital improvements to adequately support new development. West Main Street Node This long strip of Highway Business zoned roadway has potential to change use and intensity under existing regulations. Traffic overburdens this roadway and its many access points, community character is compromised by strip development, and residential uses are not fully integrated into the streetscape. Goals for this area include improved community character, a defined neighborhood center with neighborhood-serving businesses, traffic congestion relief, traffic calming measures, streetscape improvements, and drinking water protection. Non-Conforming Uses Non-conforming uses are existing uses that do not conform to the use standards of the zoning districts in which they are located. The most common non-conforming uses are commercial uses located in residential zoning districts. Legally non-conforming uses may continue so long as they meet certain standards. Many of these uses provide valuable services to the community but can also cause traffic issues and other conflicts with neighboring residential uses. It is the Town’s longstanding policy that these uses convert to residential uses over time in order to reduce such conflict. To the degree possible, Barnstable should use its non-confor- mity section to eliminate variance requests. Use Variances Use variances are a perfect example of the importance of adopting clear and consistent zoning bylaws. When it is clear what uses are desired and allowed in certain zoning districts, there should be no need for use variances. Use variances are currently not allowed in several areas of Barnstable, and the Town may consider expanding this prohibition. Maps Mapping is an important tool for visualizing land use policies. The maps below can help the community see where new growth and develop- ment are most suitable and where development should be moderated to protect important environmental resources. Please see the Existing Conditions Report (page 22) for a fuller range of maps. 157Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Map 4 .1 . Residential & Mixed-Use/Non-Residential Zoning Districts Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay PopponessetBay Cotuit Bay LakeWequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C enterville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah's Pond Ste w art's CreekJoshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond Crystal Lake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond P i r ates C ov e BogPond LongPond EaglePond Hinckley Pond ColemanPondIshemPond MillPond Patty's Pond MillPond IsraelPond West Pond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond Weathervane Pond Flax Pond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond Duck Pond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove SnowsC re ek M illCreekMaraspin C reekBass C r eekFawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver Bu mpsRiver FullerMillPondEel Ri verPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverMarstons MillsRiver Snow's Cove S cortonCreek TheCove W ells CreekGreatIslandCreekEel Cree kSmithCreek Boat CoveCreekSpr i ng Creek Bridge Creek BrickyardCreekNantucket Sound BroadSound Eel GrassCove Tim'sCove TheNarrow s Warren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Residential & Non-Residential/ Mixed-Use Zoning Districts Map Legend Where a zoning district boundary is located at the edge of a water body, that zone that applies to the land shall apply to structures and uses such as piers and commercial boating operationsto the extent of the territorial jurisdiction of the town. Where zoning district boundaries are located along the edge of a roadway and a distance is shown from such point to another zoning boundary, such distance and points shall be from the edge of the road layout. The ultimate location of such point shall be determined bysurvey as the line shown on this map is considered an approximation. SEE TEXT OF ZONING ORDINANCE FOR COMPLETE INFROMATION ON BULK REGULATIONS. Roads Town Boundary Line Residential & Non-Residential Mixed-Use Zoning Districts 1-14-25 RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICTS MIXED USE/NON-RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICTS Railroad Tracks Source: Town of Barnstable 158Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Map 4 .2 . Single-Family Residential Zoning Districts Town of Barnstable Massachusetts Single-Family Residential Zoning Districts Map Legend Where a zoning district boundary is located at the edge of a water body, that zone that applies to the land shall apply to structures and uses such as piers and commercial boating operationsto the extent of the territorial jurisdiction of the town. Where zoning district boundaries are located along the edge of a roadway and a distance is shown from such point to another zoning boundary, such distance and points shall be from the edge of the road layout. The ultimate location of such point shall be determined bysurvey as the line shown on this map is considered an approximation. SEE TEXT OF ZONING ORDINANCE FOR COMPLETE INFROMATION ON BULK REGULATIONS. Roads Town Boundary Line Single-Family Residential Zoning Districts 1-14-25 ÿN E S W Minimum Lot Area of Less than 2 Acres Minimum Lot Area of 2 Acres Railroad Tracks Source: Town of Barnstable 159Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Map 4 .3 . Growth Incentive Zone, Resource Protection Overlay Zoning District & Economic Center and Industrial & Service Trade Area (Chapter H) Map Legend Where a zoning district boundary is located at the edge of a water body, that zone that applies to the land shall apply to structures and uses such as piers and commercial boating operationsto the extent of the territorial jurisdiction of the town. Where zoning district boundaries are located along the edge of a roadway and a distance is shown from such point to another zoning boundary, such distance and points shall be from the edge of the road layout. The ultimate location of such point shall be determined bysurvey as the line shown on this map is considered an approximation. SEE TEXT OF ZONING ORDINANCE FOR COMPLETE INFROMATION ON BULK REGULATIONS. Roads Town Boundary Line Map3_Grwth_Incen_Zone_RPOD.mxd�1-24-25 ÿN E S W Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) Industrial & Service Trade Area (ISTA) (CCC) Economic Center (EC) (CCC) Resource Protection Overlay District (RPOD) Town of Barnstable Massachusetts Growth Incentive Zone, Resource Protection Overlay Zoning District & Economic Center and Industrial & Service Trade Area (Chapter H) Source: Town of Barnstable Railroad Tracks 160Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Map 4 .4 . Groundwater Protection Overlay Zoning District + Saltwater Estuary Protection Town of Barnstable Massachusetts Groundwater Protection Overlay Zoning Districts + Salt Water Estuary Protection Map Legend Where a zoning district boundary is located at the edge of a water body, that zone that applies to the land shall apply to structures and uses such as piers and commercial boating operationsto the extent of the territorial jurisdiction of the town. Where zoning district boundaries are located along the edge of a roadway and a distance is shown from such point to another zoning boundary, such distance and points shall be from the edge of the road layout. The ultimate location of such point shall be determined bysurvey as the line shown on this map is considered an approximation. SEE TEXT OF ZONING ORDINANCE FOR COMPLETE INFROMATION ON BULK REGULATIONS. WP - Well ProtectionWPWP Roads Town Boundary Line Map2_Grndwtr_Prot_SWEP_Dist.mxd 1-24-25 ÿN E S W Source: Town of Barnstable Railroad Tracks Saltwater Estuary Protection Aquifer Protection Overlay District All other areas not identified as Wellhead or Groundwater Protection Overlay Districts GP - Groundwater ProtectionGPGP 161Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Map 4 .5 . Existing Land Use Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Existing Land Use Map Legend Where a zoning district boundary is located at the edge of a water body, that zone that applies to the land shall apply to structures and uses such as piers and commercial boating operationsto the extent of the territorial jurisdiction of the town. Where zoning district boundaries are located along the edge of a roadway and a distance is shown from such point to another zoning boundary, such distance and points shall be from the edge of the road layout. The ultimate location of such point shall be determined bysurvey as the line shown on this map is considered an approximation. SEE TEXT OF ZONING ORDINANCE FOR COMPLETE INFROMATION ON BULK REGULATIONS. Map5_LandUseSummaryMap_v4.mxd 1-28-25 Residential & Rural Regional Economic Center Downtown Hyannis Historic Village Centers Commercial Nodes !(Î Maritime_Areas Resource Protection Overlay District (RPOD) Zoning District Roads Railroad Tracks Town Boundary Line Source: Town of Barnstable 162Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Map 4 .6 . Existing Land Use & Proposed Sewer (Phase I) Note: This map strictly shows Phase I of the sewer project. Phases II and III are shown on Map 7.2 defined on page 220. Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Existing Land Use Proposed Sewer (Phase 1) Map Legend Where a zoning district boundary is located at the edge of a water body, that zone that applies to the land shall apply tostructures and uses such as piers and commercial boating operations to the extent of the territorial jurisdiction of the town. Where zoning district boundaries are located along the edge of aroadway and a distance is shown from such point to another zoning boundary, such distance and points shall be from the edge of the road layout. The ultimate location of such point shall be determined by survey as the line shown on this map is considered an approximation. SEE TEXT OF ZONING ORDINANCE FOR COMPLETE INFROMATIONON BULK REGULATIONS. existing land use_proposed sewer phase 1 v2.mxd 1-29-25 Residential & Rural Regional Economic Center Downtown Hyannis Historic Village Centers Commercial Nodes !(Î Maritime_Areas Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan Phase 1 (Jan 2025) Resource Protection Overlay District (RPOD) Zoning District Roads Railroad Tracks Town Boundary Line Source: Town of Barnstable 163Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Map 4 .7 . Flood Zones Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Flood Zones Map Legend Roads Town Boundary Line Map6A_FEMA_Flood_Map.mxd 2-3-25 VE - Velocity Zone AE - 100 Year Flood AO - 100 Year Flood 0.2% Annual Chance Flood Open Water The National Flood Hazard Layer (NFHL) data incorporates all Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) databases published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and any Letters Of Map Revision (LOMRs) that have been issued against those databases since their publication date. It is updated on a monthly basis. The FIRM Database is the digital, geospatial version of the flood hazard information shown on the published paper FIRMs. The FIRM Database depicts flood risk information and supporting data used to develop the risk data. The primary risk classifications used are the 1-percent-annual-chance flood event, the 0.2-percent-annual-chance flood event, and areas of minimal flood risk. The FIRM Database is derived from Flood Insurance Studies (FISs), previously published FIRMs, flood hazard analyses performed in support of the FISs and FIRMs, and new mapping data, where available. Last updated July 2023. SEE MASSGIS WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS - https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massgis-data-fema-national-flood-hazard-layer FEMA FLOOD HAZARD LAYER DESCRIPTION FEMA Flood Zones Source: Town of Barnstable, MassGIS Railroad Tracks 164Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use Map 4 .8 . Hurricane Inundation Areas Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Hurricane Inundation Areas Map Legend Roads Town Boundary Line Map6B_ACOE_Inundation_Map.mxd 2-3-25 Hurricane Category - Surge Inundation Zones Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4 This layer represents worst-case Hurricane Surge Inundation areas for Category 1 through 4 hurricanes striking the coast of Massachusetts. Hurricane surge values were developed by the National Hurricane Center using the PV2 basin SLOSH (Sea Lake and Overland Surge from Hurricanes) Model data. This Surge Inundation layer was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District. Using ArcInfo's Grid extension, LiDAR bare earth elevation data were subtracted from the worst-case hurricane surge values to determine which areas could be expected to be inundated. Last updated October 2013. SEE MASSGIS WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS - https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massgis-data-hurricane-surge-inundation-zones HURRICANE INUNDATION LAYER DESCRIPTION Source: Town of Barnstable, MassGIS Railroad Tracks 165Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use GOAL #1 Analyze current standards for lot coverage and building massing in the Residential Areas. Consider creating or decreasing maximum lot coverage limitations and/or establishing floor to area ratio (FAR) limits in strategic areas to contain the spread of impervious surfaces and to improve coastal flooding resilience. Actions A. Amend the Town’s zoning to incorporate requirements for the built and natural environment with best practice strategies related to coastal flooding resiliency and potential need to retreat. B. Establish new lot coverage requirements or enhance existing requirements to define maximum impervious coverage in residential zoning districts. GOAL #2: To preserve open lands, agricultural lands, and cultural, historic, and scenic landscapes, explore locations for an increased lot size requirement in areas with insufficient infrastructure. Actions A. Conduct an analysis of the parcels in the Resource Protection Overlay District (RPOD) currently zoned for two acres by overlaying maps of natural, historic, and scenic resources to help identify if the RPOD should be expanded. B. Conduct an analysis of the parcels in areas with sufficient infrastructure and consider amending the RPOD for development potential. GOAL #3: Continue to explore opportunities to protect or acquire areas of land to retain and expand open space. Actions A. Seek to increase land protected in perpetuity with prioritization for land that is contiguous with existing open space, adjacent to a wetland as well as opportunities to establish or expand greenways and wildlife corridors of sufficient width to protect edge species and species that inhabit the interior forest. Land Use Goals & Actions 166Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use GOAL #4: Amend the zoning ordinance to enhance requirements to retain existing tree canopy and establish new requirements to increase tree canopy. Actions A. Amend the Town’s zoning to require that residential and commercial prop- erties are improved with or maintain existing vegetated landscape buffers between other properties and adjacent to water bodies. B. Amend the Town’s zoning to require that new trees be planted whenever a significant tree is removed except where necessary for safety purposes, etc. and consider alternative methods including a fee in lieu. The Town will also consider providing incentives when significant trees, beyond any applicable requirements, are planted. The Town will work with the Tree Warden to determine criteria for defining a significant tree. C. Set standards for the maximum lot clearance allowed for development in rural residential zoning districts as well as Sensitive Habitat Areas including open space that is protected in perpetuity and BioMap Core Habitat and Critical Natural Landscape. GOAL #5: Consider incentives and tax benefits for agricultural lands to increase inten- sity and economic possibility. Actions A. Actively promote Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 61A property tax benefits to rural landowners. 167Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use GOAL #6: Consider incentives or requirements for open space residential development. Actions A. Study options for requiring the use of open space residential development in rural residential zoning districts where the protected open space can help conserve and connect important natural resources or where the develop- ment is near mixed-use zoning districts. B. If requirements prove infeasible, explore incentives for incorporating open space residential development in these areas, such as waiving permitting fees or offering tax credits. GOAL #7: Improve connectivity between residential and commercial users in the Regional Economic Center. Actions A. Develop and adopt standards to improve connectivity between new residential development and nearby parks, schools, shopping, and services, including sidewalks, bike paths, and enhanced transit. Kimber Woods. Alora Lanzillotta 168Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use GOAL #8: Ensure adequate open space is available for residents and visitors to Hyannis to balance the impact of the Growth Incentive Zone. Actions A. The Town should identify and map potential open space/recreational properties in Hyannis and develop plans to enhance or acquire land, given the limited availability of land for standalone park and recreation purposes. GOAL #9: Develop and adopt standards, including design standards or guidelines, for additional housing types at a scale between two-family dwellings and small multi-family dwellings as well as mixed-use that can be allowed in the Commercial Nodes. Actions A. Ensure that zoning allows these housing types to accommodate mixed-use with ground floor commercial. B. Ensure that housing development will have minimal impact on traffic through integration of traffic mitigation measures. C. Amend the Town’s zoning to light commercial along West Main Street with emphasis for integration of traffic mitigation measures and village center oriented design and scale. Consider prohibiting multi-family development of greater than 12 units along West Main Street and the Route 28 corridor as shown on the Future Land Use Map. D. Support development and redevelopment of housing and other associated uses on underutilized properties around the Cape Cod mall. Explore expanding the Town’s HD zone to enable tax relief incentives through the State’s Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) program. E. Support housing development and redevelopment on underutilized proper- ties within the Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ). 169Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use GOAL #10: Evaluate regulations to incentivize conforming uses. Actions A. Conduct an analysis of all non-conforming non-residential uses in the Town. GOAL #11: Protect and strengthen the existing working harbor activities and character, maintain water views and improve public access. Actions A. Amend the Town’s zoning to ensure that existing public water views are protected or enhanced. Consider establishing view corridors that are required to remain free of view-obstructing buildings, structures, site improvements or landscaping other than low-growing plant material or existing natural vegetation. GOAL #12: Reflect on the Future Land Use Map and coordinate further study for the areas identified on the map. Actions A. Conduct the Independence Village Area Master Plan as shown on the Future Land Use Map. B. Conduct the West End Neighborhood Area Master Plan as shown on the Future Land Use Map to study traffic impacts and analyze proper land uses. C. Conduct the Community College Area Master Plan as shown on the Future Land Use Map for further land use in partnership with the Community College. D. Study the Route 132 corridor as shown on the Future Land Use Map to study traffic impacts and analyze proper land uses. 170Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Land Use CHAPTER 5Housing Vision Statement »Commit to providing affordable and attainable year-round housing options. 171 CHAPTER XChapter Title Sea Captains Row. Town of Barnstable Communications 172Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing Why Housing Matters In the last ten years, Barnstable has seen a 3 percent decrease in the total number of households, but an overall increase of 8 percent in its total population. Barnstable’s full-time population has fluctuated since 1980. Most Barnstable residents are over the age of 35, and the population is predicted to grow increasingly older with the aging of these residents. The town is also becoming more diverse, with Black, Indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC) accounting for over one-fifth of the population. Hyannis’s BIPOC proportion is even higher, accounting for nearly half of the village’s overall population. Both Barnstable Town and Hyannis have significantly higher-than-average resident diversity compared with Barnstable County, which is 92 percent white.152 The average household size in Barnstable is 2.5 persons and 27 percent of total households are individuals living alone.153 Most resident occupations are in education, health care, and social assistance professions, and this may account for the lower median household income as compared to the Area Median Income (AMI) set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Non-family and renter-occupied households earn roughly $40,000 less than the AMI, which means increased difficulty for these households 152 Quick Facts Barnstable County, Massachusetts, https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/barnstablecountymassachusetts 153 Social Explorer Tables: ACS 2022 (5-Year Estimates) - ACS2022_5yr to afford housing costs. Renter household median income in 2022 was $50,352 compared to the Town average of $94,387. In Barnstable, 37 percent of households are spending more than 30 percent of their monthly income on housing costs—and for low- and moder- ate-income earners, this number jumps to 72 percent. One in three Barnstable homeowners is cost-burdened while one in two renters are cost-burdened. Roughly 85 percent of Barnstable’s housing stock is single-family housing, and 81 percent of that is single-family detached units. Hyannis, on the other hand, has a much more even split, with 59 percent of units being single-family and 41 percent being multi-family. Hyannis is one of Barnstable’s seven villages but holds about one-fifth of Barnstable’s housing units. The number of multi-family units in Hyannis Housing5 In Barnstable, the vast majority of housing is single family homes, and many of these residential structures lie within vulnerable coastal areas subject to sea level rise, SLOSH (Sea, Lake, and Overland Surges from Hurricanes), and flooding. 173Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing is higher than the overall Town’s multi-family housing stock, with the remaining six villages having significantly fewer multi-unit housing options. Of Barnstable’s overall housing stock, approximately 3.4% of total units are registered for short-term rental; this number fluctuates seasonally and not all registered rentals are actively being advertised.154 About one quarter of homes in town are second homes, which may 154 Local Town data on short-term rentals from the month of August 2022 (to get a snapshot of a peak tourist time). Counted only short-term rentals across all available short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) that actively rented in the past year (these short-term rentals may or may not be registered with the state). 155 Cape Cod Commission housing market analysis, 2017—projected for 2022. 6,319 second homes and 21,348 year-round homes reported for the mid-Cape in 2022. This totals 27,667 homes, of which 23 percent are second homes. 156 CoStar Annual Maret Report; Barnstable Multi-Family or may not be seasonally rented.155 Vacancy rates in Barnstable indicate that the town has a 1.8 percent vacancy of ownership units. The town saw a four (4) percent increase in renter-occupied housing between 2010 and 2020, but available rentals remain scarce; the rental vacancy rate remains around 1.7%.156 Barnstable has comparatively more rental Hyannis Lofts. Town of Barnstable Communications 174Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing housing than most surrounding towns at 74 percent owner-occupied and 26 percent renter occupied. Hyannis shows much closer tenure parity with 56.6 percent renter-occupied units. While most Barnstable households are one or two people, most of its homes have three bedrooms, suggesting a need for more studio, one-, and two-bedroom housing options. Housing prices are on the rise. Between 2021–2022 the median sales price for a home in Barnstable rose by 62 percent.157 The median sales price for a single-family home in 2023 was $799,000.158 Rental costs have also increased and are anticipated to continue to rise. In 2023, 157 Banker & Tradesman Median Sale Prices 158 Banker & Tradesman Median Sale Prices and Housing Sales 159 CoStar Annual Market Report; Barnstable Multi-Family market data indicated rental units averaged $1,924 per month, although observed rents for available units advertised online and reported by the community trended much higher.159 Hanover Hyannis. Town of Barnstable Communications Insecure housing and homelessness stress the body, accelerate aging, pose barriers to medication adherence, and increase risks of mental health challenges. 175Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing FACT SHEET FOOTNOTES 1 Department of Housing and Community Development Subsidized Housing Inventory, April 22, 2022 2 The American Community Survey (ACS) 2022 (5-Year Estimates), Social Explorer; U.S. Census Bureau 3 Banker & Tradesman Median Sale Prices 4 The American Community Survey (ACS) 2023 (5-Year Estimates) 5 Local Town data on short-term rentals from the month of August 2022 (to get a snapshot of a peak tourist time) through February 2024. Counted only short-term rentals across all available short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) that actively rented in the past year (these short-term rentals may or may not be registered with the state). Housing Fact Sheet 6.2% of Barnstable’s year-round housing stock is designated affordable .1 The median sales price for a single-family home in 2023 was $799,000 . 3 At least 1 in 4 of Barnstable’s housing units are second homes . The percentage of units registered for short-term rental at any one time varies between 2.3%–3.4% .5 84.8% of Barnstable’s housing stock is detached single-family homes .2 Nearly 70% of households are one or two people; however, most Barnstable homes have three or more bedrooms .4 households with 1–2 people homes with 2 or less bedrooms 70% 32% 176Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing Housing Goals & Actions GOAL #1 Explore methods for incentivizing the creation of year-round rental units. Actions A. Explore a residential property tax exemption under Massachusetts General Law (MGL) c. 59 §5O for Barnstable property owners that provide year- round rentals. B. Explore feasibility to provide financial incentives to promote year-round rentals such as Provincetown’s Lease to Locals Program. GOAL #2 Develop strategies that will address the seasonal housing challenges unique to the region. Actions A. Explore opportunities to place year-round deed-restrictions on residential units such as the InDEED program in Vail, Colorado. B. Consider regulations and other policies focused on short-term rentals to the extent they impact year-round affordable housing. C. Explore increasing the residential tax exemption for principal residences of taxpayers under Massachusetts General Law (MGL) c. 59 §5C. GOAL #3 Assess potential zoning and other opportunities to expand housing options to meet a variety of housing needs. Actions A. Identify strategies to support workforce housing and promote attainable and affordable, equity and wealth building, long-term homeownership opportunities such as the CommonWealth Builder Program. B. Amend the Town’s zoning to support the creation of housing units consistent with local needs including but not limited to affordable assisted or independent living units for low-income seniors, affordable year-round rental and ownership housing, workforce housing, and housing for residents with special needs. 177Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing GOAL #4 Strengthen the inclusionary affordable housing ordinance. Actions A. To generate more affordable units, consider requiring a higher percentage of affordable units at a range of income levels, and making the required percentage proportionate to the size of the development. B. Look for opportunities to provide expedited permitting, zoning relief, density bonuses, and financial subsidy for developments that provide affordable housing beyond what is required. C. Establish a calculation for an in-lieu of fee payment that is comparable to the housing market and can be utilized to support local housing initiatives. GOAL #5 Pursue the creation of affordable year-round housing on vacant and/or underutilized land or properties as consistent with the Future Land Use Map. Actions A. Explore opportunities to incorporate year-round housing ensuring walkable communities in the study areas identified on the Future Land Use Map. GOAL #6: Plan and partner with entities to produce permanent supportive housing for unhoused people. Actions A. Consider updating the Town's Local Initiative Program (LIP) guidelines or future Affordable Housing Growth and Development Trust Fund Notices of Funding Availability (NOFAs) to encourage inclusion of units for formerly homeless households. B. Strengthen communication with homelessness service providers to ensure their clientele are aware of and assisted with the application processes for future affordable housing opportunities. 178Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing GOAL #7: Improve monitoring compliance of existing affordable units. Actions A. Create and/or support a regional housing services office (RHSO) to expand resource capacity and support monitoring compliance of existing affordable units. GOAL #8: Pursue community-supported opportunities to add housing on Town properties. Actions A. Develop a Master Plan for key town-owned properties such as the former Marstons Mills Elementary School and the land around the Barnstable Adult Community Center. B. Create an inventory of Town-owned property, land and buildings to be analyzed for suitable affordable housing development. Marstons Mills Former Elementary School. Town of Barnstable Communications 179Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing GOAL #9: Closely coordinate implementation of the Town’s Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan and housing development to address both natural resource protection and housing needs. Actions A. Maintain a build-out analysis, for the entire town, overlaying future sewer service areas, and current and anticipated land dedicated to water supply and protection, with the Town’s zoning to comprehensively consider oppor- tunities for future housing and open space. GOAL #10: Explore public-private partnerships with the Town’s largest employers, and opportunities internally with the Barnstable Public Schools, to create workforce and seasonal housing for employees and students. Actions A. Support the development of workforce housing with tax relief incentives. Explore establishing funding stream for this purpose. 180Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Housing CHAPTER 6Natural Resources Vision Statement »Protect, restore and enhance priority natural habitats, salt and fresh water resources, and open spaces. »Maintain healthy coastal ecosystems along with commercially viable harbors. »Protect and improve the quality and quantity of our drinking water. »Reduce our environmental footprint by investing in low-carbon energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and better managing our waste. »Build on our outstanding recreational opportunities and enhance access to open spaces while also ensuring no environmental harm as recommended by the open space and recreation plan. »Build essential infrastructure that is resilient, adaptable, and sustainable and minimizes its environmental impact. 181 CHAPTER XChapter Title Aerial overlooking Cotuit Bay, Sampsons Island and Nantucket Sound. Derek Lawson 182Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Why Natural Resources Matter The Town of Barnstable is rich in natural resources which center around water, water-dependent resources, and habitat. High-quality natural resources are part of the Town’s attraction for residents and visitors, but they are also susceptible to pollution from various land uses and activities and are increasingly vulnerable to changes in climate. Barnstable residents’ and visitors’ continued appreciation of natural resources requires active stewardship, protection, and restoration of clean water and ecosystems. Natural resource planning is critical for ensuring: • Quality of life for humans, including clean air, clean water, and the ability to enjoy the outdoors • Healthy ecosystems for animals and plants to thrive • Climate change resiliency, including storm surge protection, marsh migration, carbon sequestration, and myriad other benefits For all these reasons and more, the protection of water, wetlands, open space, forests, and other natural habitats is critical for Barnstable’s future. Please see Chapter 1: Natural Systems (page 23) of the Existing Conditions Report for more detailed information on groundwater, marine waters, freshwater lakes and ponds, wetland resources, open space, and habitat. Natural Resource Actions Since 2010 The Town of Barnstable last adopted its LCP in 2010. A great deal of work was put into the development of that plan, and it has been actively implemented over the past fourteen years. Below is a high-level overview of some notable implementation achievements related to Natural Resources. Policies, Priorities & Plans The 2010 LCP called for the creation and adoption of several new or updated plans, many of which have been addressed since then. Natural Resources6 Many of the plans completed as part of the Town’s efforts since 2010 advance public health. Efforts to improve water quality (Lake Wequaquet Management Plan, Stormwater Management Program Plan, Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Plan) advance public health. Wastewater management also promotes public health. Reducing hazard risks (Hazard Mitigation Plan, Floodplain Management Report) prevents harm to people’s homes, livelihoods, and health. 183Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Lake Wequaquet Management Plan (2013) Provides an analysis of phosphorous loading to the five basins in Lake Wequaquet and includes a management plan as well as recommendations for further studies. Floodplain Management Report (2015) Identifies floodplain management and climate adaptation actions to reduce and avoid flood-re- lated damage and disruption to the community. Comprehensive Dredge Plan (2017) Identifies Town-wide dredging needs and priorities and establishes a long-term dredging plan for the future. Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) (2018) Provides a blueprint to guide the Town’s plans, investments, policies and regulations in support of protecting and enhancing open space and recreation resources. The Town is updating the OSRP. Stormwater Management Program Plan (2019, updated 2022) Describes and details activities and measures to be implemented in order to meet the terms and conditions of the municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4) permit. Lake Wequaquet. Amber Unruh 184Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Plan (2019, updated 2022) Identifies sources of non-stormwater discharges impacting the Town’s municipal separate storm sewer system and provides recommendations for removing illicit sources. Sandy Neck Beach Park Habitat Conservation Plan (2020) Proposed management plan related to recreational activity in proximity of piping plover habitat at Sandy Neck Beach Park. Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) (2020) Provides a town-wide, state approved, science- based approach to protecting Barnstable’s coastal waters, ponds, and drinking water by managing nutrient pollution from wastewater. The Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan is built upon years of water quality monitoring and wastewater planning efforts including the Massachusetts Estuaries Project (MEP) and Cape Cod Commission’s Cape Cod Area-Wide Water Quality Management Plan Update, or “208 Plan” which provided a foundation for the plan. The CWMP calls for an expansion of the Town’s wastewater infrastructure (sewers) to reduce nutrients within the coastal embayments and achieve the regulatory thresholds known as Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs). Additionally, the plan proposes sewer expansion to target pond protection, water supply protection, targeted economic development and other wastewater needs. In addition, the plan also identifies other innovative and nature-based approaches such as inlet dredging, cranberry bog conversions, and the use of nitrogen removing septicsystems to potentially supplement the sewer program. The CWMP is a 30 year plan which is structured as three 10 year phases. The plan is intended to be adaptive and will include adaptive management updates/reviews every 5 years, with the first anticipated to be completed at the end of 2025. Through its CWMP, the Town has begun a town-wide Nutrient Management Plan. This plan includes an assessment process to establish wastewater alternatives to restore and protect coastal waters. Hazard Mitigation Plan (2022) Identifies the town’s risk and vulnerability to potential natural hazards and recommends miti- gation strategies and actions aimed at reducing the loss of or damage to life, property, infra- structure, and natural, cultural, and economic resources. Specifically, this plan assesses the potential impacts of hurricanes, winter storms, shoreline change/coastal erosion, earthquakes, drought/wildfire, and dam failure and identifies properties, resources, and critical facilities which may be impacted by these hazard events. Long Pond Marstons Mills Management Plan (2022) Provides a diagnostic assessment of nutrient inputs to Long Pond, quantifies phosphorus Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan Construction. DPW 185Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources inputs to Long Pond, and recommends a management plan to address those inputs and improve Long Pond water quality. Shubael Pond Management Plan (2022) Provides a diagnostic assessment of nutrient inputs to Shubael Pond, quantifies phosphorus inputs to Shubael Pond, and recommends a management plan to address those inputs and improve Shubael Pond water quality. Projects & Initiatives The 2010 LCP called for many strategies and actions for the Town to pursue related to Natural Resources. Below is a summary of some of these key achievements. Community Preservation Act (CPA) Open Space & Recreation Efforts Funds raised through the CPA have been used by the Town to expand open space and recreation resources. These funds have been used to acquire lands or conservation restrictions for open space, conduct studies needed to finance recreation projects, and repair and improve existing recreational facilities, among other things. A full list of CPA projects can be found in the Existing Conditions Report uunder Chapter 1. Natural Systems (page 23). Land Protected in Perpetuity The Town has made progress in expanding the amount of permanently protected land in Barnstable since 2010. The amount of open space in Barnstable that is protected in perpetuity is 11,469 acres as of 2022. This is an increase of 524 acres, or nearly five percent, from 2010 to 2022. A full breakdown of conser- vation lands by type and by owner can be found in the Existing Conditions Report under Chapter 1. Natural Systems (page 23). Habitat Restoration & Fire Protection Improvements that have taken place since 2010 include controlled prescribed burns for wildlife habitat restoration and forest fire fuel reduction, removal of dead pines on Old Stage Road, maintaining 33 acres of fields for habitat protection, and fire prevention at Seabury Farms Conservation Area, West Barnstable Conservation Area, and Bridge Creek Conservation Area. Cleared two additional acres, grassland restoration project Bridge Creek Conservation Area FY2012. Fire management improvements Old Jail Lane Conservation Area FY2012. Completed improvements to fire access road in West Barnstable Conservation Area for emergency response. FY2014. Fire plan and controlled burn at Crocker Neck Conservation Area—Wildlife habitat restoration and forest fire fuel reduction FY2016 and FY2017. Control burn West Barnstable Conservation Area Wildlife habitat restoration and forest fire fuel reduction FY2019 and FY2020. Lakes & Ponds The Town’s freshwater management program includes efforts to evaluate and address elevated nutrient levels, monitor and control harmful algae (cyanobacteria) and other ecological impairments and manage invasive species for the purposes of promoting healthy pond ecosys- tems, protecting human health, and supporting recreation and enjoyment. As reflected in the section above, the Town has instituted a pond management program that evaluates ecological health and stressors for priority ponds and offers recommendations for management and restoration of these resources. On a regional level, the Cape Cod Commission launched the Cape Cod Freshwater Initiative in 2022 in response to concern for ponds and lakes across Cape Cod. More recently, a draft 186Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Cape Cod Freshwater Strategy was published. The Strategy builds off data defined within the 2021 Cape Cod Ponds and Lakes Atlas to provide an overview of efforts achieved to date and includes recommendations for improving fresh- water quality across the region including but not limited to developing model wetland bylaws, addressing data gaps, improving communication and expanding funding for the Regional Pond Monitoring Program.160 Implementation of the CWMP will have a long-term beneficial effect on fragile freshwater ecosystems; sewer installation is prioritized around Lake Wequaquet to restore the health of this 673 acre resource. Other management tech- niques being implemented in lakes and ponds across town include alum treatments and aera- tors to control harmful algae blooms, a floating wetland in Long Pond, Centerville, as well as efforts coordinated by the numerous private lake and pond associations. The Town annually manages the growth of Hydrilla and Fanwort, two invasive plants in several freshwater ponds including Mystic Lake, Middle Pond, Long Pond, and Lake Wequaquet through a combination of mechanical means (diver assisted suction harvesting and mats) and controlled application of aquatic herbicides. Wetlands Local and State Wetlands Regulations protect the value and function of wetlands and related watershed resources. In 2012, the Town, through its Conservation Commission, updated regulations pertaining to protective buffer zones, adding land- scape requirements to filter pollutants, enhance value to wildlife, and manage flooding. Local regulations regarding private docks and piers, 160 Cape Cod Commission Cape Cod Freshwater Initiative, accessed March 6, 2025. https://capecodcommission.org/our-work/cape-cod-freshwater-initiative/#:~:text=The%20Freshwater%20Initiative%20 included%20a,lens%20began%20in%20March%202024. as well as short outhauls, have been updated or adopted to balance the recreational value and ecological fragility of wetland resources. Stormwater Management Stormwater management is an ongoing effort in Barnstable through multiple programs designed to assess and prioritize sites to improve operation and maintenance of existing systems and install new green stormwater infrastructure (GSI). These improvements are carried out through drainage improvements during the annual Road Program maintenance, stormwater improvements to impaired ponds Capital Improvement Plan, and grant funding. Completed in June of 2022, the Three Bays stormwater management project was achieved in collaboration with the Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) and Horsley Witten Group to plan, assess, design, permit, construct, and maintain green infrastructure best management practices (BMPs) within the watershed. The project completed a watershed scale assessment to establish a comprehensive stormwater management plan that identified and prioritized sites for potential stormwater retrofits. Funding was obtained to complete nine green infrastruc- ture BMPS including three bioretention areas, a sand filter, a gravel wetland, and four dry swales. Wildlife The Town’s Natural Resources Division works at safeguarding healthy ecosystems to promote ecological balance and species protection. Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem resilience, enabling natural systems to adapt to and recover from environmental pressures and disturbances. The Natural Resources Division has been working with Mass Audubon and other stakeholders and 187Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources FACT SHEET FOOTNOTES 1 Cape Cod Commission Geographic Information System (GIS) November 2024 2 Cape Cod Commission Geographic Information System (GIS) Open Data Hub, Ponds, November 23, 2022 3 Town of Barnstable Marine and Environmental Affairs Department Natural Resources Division staff presentation February 2024 4 Rare Species Viewer, MassWildlife's Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program, acquired January 18, 2023 5 Town of Barnstable 2018 Open Space and Recreation Plan pages 47 and 78; Town of Barnstable Ways to Water Map Geographic Information System (GIS) November 2013 Natural Resources Fact Sheet The Town has 72 individual aquaculture sites encompassing approximately 156 acres between Barnstable Harbor and Three Bays.3 The Town’s Marine and Environmental Affairs staff oversee and maintain: 170 miles of coastline with jurisdiction extending 3 nautical miles out 89 ways to water 4 marinas5 The Town has 163 ponds .2 The Town has 26 plant species and 32 fish and wildlife species of conservation concern.4 27 great ponds (greater than or equal to 10 acres) More than 1/4 of Cape Cod’s salt marshes are located in Barnstable.1 Most of the marshes are in the Great Marsh south of Sandy Neck. 188Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources has recently installed 15 osprey nesting platforms on Town and private property. Providing addi- tional nesting sites for breeding osprey greatly reduces conflicts that arise when the osprey search for nesting sites and promotes biodiversity. Additionally, the town works on restoring and improving sensitive habitats for endangered species which is crucial for wildlife conservation. The Town has worked on multiagency projects to restore sections of five herring runs. The Town is working at culvert replacement, fish ladder restoration and restoration of natural migration routes. Coastal Resiliency & Climate Mitigation Town of Barnstable has been analyzing coastal resiliency solutions for protecting Sandy Neck Beach Park’s public access infrastructure. An initial study was conducted in 2016 to examine concep- tual alternatives which provided guidance for the predicted limit of dune erosion in 50 years high- lighting that current infrastructure would need to be relocated to reduce risk of damage due to coastal erosion and flooding. Six conceptual alternatives were advanced to 30% design phase and presented to the public. Ultimately, after consultation with the public, the working group, Sandy Neck Board, and the Town selected the full relocation of the parking lot and Gatehouse with an enhanced dune without relocation of the Off Road Vehicle (ORV) trail to maintain current public use activities and minimize impacts to natural resources to the maximum extent possible. This project is a key success in dune protection, hazard mitigation and agency cooperation. Ocean Resources The Natural Resources Division has several proj- ects aimed at improving river herring passage to spawning areas within the town. The implemen- tation of fish-friendly infrastructure facilitates their migration and enhances access to critical spawning areas. These projects have shown positive impacts to river herring populations by restoring their natural migration routes and contributing to healthier aquatic ecosystems. Funding for these projects was awarded by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and Cape Cod Conservation District and includes improvements to water flow structures, fish ladders and wetland restoration. The Natural Resources shellfish propagation program grows shellfish to supplement natural shellfish populations. Shellfish play pivotal roles in ecosystem health, water quality, and habitat preservation. Shellfish efficiently remove excess nutrients and sediment which in turn improve water quality. The program has tripled quahog production and doubled oyster production since 2012. The department has made concerted efforts to perform habitat assessments in sensi- tive marine habitats to protect and preserve these vital areas. Issues & Opportunities The natural resources of Barnstable face a myriad of issues and opportunities that range from water quality to climate change. These challenges are not uncommon to other communities across the state. However, they are of critical importance to Barnstable to address as a town that is bounded on both the north and south sides by water and that continues to The health of natural resources plays a crucial role in increasing climate resiliency, especially coastal areas which serve to buffer storm impacts. 189Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources seek to balance growth and development with resource protection. Coastal Resiliency The impaired water quality of the Town’s sensi- tive embayments is directly related to pollutant loading from a number of development related sources including on-site septic systems and stormwater runoff. With so much of Cape Cod’s biodiversity and local economy reliant on the health of these coastal waters, ensuring their health is critical to future prosperity. The impacts of these pollutant sources may also be exacerbated by continued sea level rise. Study has shown a clear relation between rising ocean 161 Walter, D.A., McCobb, T.D., Masterson, J.P., and Fienen, M.N., 2016, Potential effects of sea-level rise on the depth to saturated sediments of the Sagamore and Monomoy flow lenses on Cape Cod, Massachusetts (ver. 1.1, October 18, 2016): U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2016–5058, 55 p. levels and rising groundwater levels far inland.161 This has important ramifications for managing both wastewater and stormwater, potentially limiting the ability to effectively recharge and treat these pollution sources. Barnstable has long stretches of coastline both on Nantucket Sound and Cape Cod Bay, creating considerable vulnerabilities related to natural hazards, climate change, and sea-level rise. The Town’s Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) clearly describes the vulnerabilities to the Town’s wastewater collec- tion system and additional efforts to address coastal hazards are underway, including retrofits Threats to pond quality including presence of aquatic invasive species, contribution of nutrients from septic system discharge and fertilizer/ pesticide application, and contribution of nutrients or increased erosion and flow from impervious surfaces. Phosphorus and nitrogen are nutrients of concern and have the potential to come from any or all of these sources. Nitrogen easily flows through the soil and into groundwater, while phosphorus may be bound in the soil or pass through depending on soil type and condition. Source: Cape Cod Ponds and Lakes Atlas, Figure 13, prepared by Cape Cod Commission, 2021, 78. Figure 6 .1 . 190Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources to existing sewer lines and designing new lines to be more resilient to projected hazards. The Sandy Neck Barrier Beach parking area, for example, has undergone significant scenario discussion and requires relocation farther from the coast in response to patterns of erosion. Regarding roadway infrastructure, Barnstable is working with the Cape Cod Commission to develop strategies for low-lying roads that are showing increased vulnerability to coastal storms and sea level rise. On a regional level, the Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) produces the State of the Waters: Cape Cod which is an annual 162 Association to Preserve Cape Cod State of the Waters: Cape Cod 2024, accessed March 6, 2025. https://capecodwaters.org/ 163 Friends of Barnstable Harbor Final Report for the Benthic Habitat Mapping Project, accessed March 6, 2025. https://www.friendsofbarnstableharbor.org/mapping-barnstable-harbor-from-the-bottom-up/ 164 Barnstable Community Resilience Building Workshop Summary of Findings—Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program, 2019. water health report for Cape Cod’s saltwater embayments and freshwater ponds. While efforts defined within the CWMP are currently being achieved to improve water quality, the 2024 State of the Waters identifies the Town’s embayments as being unacceptable requiring immediate restoration.162 A further analysis of Barnstable Harbor was achieved by the Friends of Barnstable Harbor in collaboration with the Town to create a “snap- shot in time” of the Barnstable harbor’s seafloor and the organisms that live there. As a subse- quent effort, a Finfish-Shellfish Study is currently being coordinated focusing on commercially and recreationally important species. The studies will provide a blueprint for informing future harbor management decisions.163 Climate Change Climate change has the potential to impact residents’ way of life and the natural systems of Barnstable. As a community with over 170 miles of shoreline, more intense weather patterns could mean flooding, heat waves and seasonal drought threatening infrastructure, landscapes, ecological systems, and residents.164 Barnstable’s Community Resilience Building workshop identified low-lying infrastructure, emergency access during weather events, wastewater, and utility failures as some of the most concerning challenges. Projected sea level rise would also further impact eelgrass in Barnstable salt marshes, responsible for important ecological benefits such as nitrogen removal, carbon sequestration, and support of commercial Barnstable Harbor Marina. Town of Barnstable Communications. 191Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources fishing.165 Delicate environments like cranberry bogs and herring runs would also feel the impact of rising ocean waters. Water & Ocean Resources Groundwater The Cape Cod aquifer is designated as a Sole Source Aquifer under the Safe Drinking Water Act by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a designation that requires Federally funded projects to assess project impacts to the aquifer. The Town of Barnstable is evaluating options for developing new groundwater supplies to meet regulatory requirements and future needs for potable drinking water, both in Hyannis, which is served by the Water Supply Division of the Barnstable Department of Public Works, and throughout the rest of Barnstable, which is served by the Barnstable, Cotuit, and Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills Water Districts. In the village of West Barnstable water supply is served by private well water. This is complicated by the fact that the Town’s groundwater system is replenished entirely by precipitation and the level of the water table fluctuates seasonally due to evaporation, precip- itation, and water withdrawals. Barnstable’s Community Preservation Committee (CPC) continues ongoing conversations with the Fire/ Water Districts about wellhead protection and open space acquisition to ensure that no development should occur in Zone 1s (i.e. within a 400-foot radius of a future public supply well) and that lands within both the Zone I and Zone II area be acquired where possible and feasible. As the Town experiences an increase in year- round population coupled with a decrease in land area suitable for water supply development, 165 Cape Cod Climate Action Plan, prepared by the Cape Cod Commission, July 2021. https://www.capecodcommission.org/resource-library/file/?url=/dept/commission/team/climate/Shared%20Documents/ Climate%20Action%20Plan/Cape-Cod-Climate-Action-Plan.pdf the need to balance groundwater withdrawals with local effects on the aquifer’s saltwater boundaries, wetlands, and surface water resources will require careful planning for future water supply development. Freshwater Lakes & Ponds Freshwater lakes and ponds in the Town of Barnstable are significant scenic, recreational, and wildlife habitat resources. The Town of Barnstable has 163 freshwater ponds, 90 of which are one acre or more. Twenty-seven ponds are greater than 10 acres and are consid- ered “Great Ponds'' under state regulations. Lovells Pond. Amber Unruh 192Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Collectively, ponds occupy 1,912 acres within the town. Freshwater ponds are particularly sensi- tive to additions of phosphorus, which is asso- ciated with development and land uses close to a pond (such as wastewater, fertilizer, and stormwater sources). Buffering pond shorelines from development is an effective strategy for protecting freshwater ponds and lakes by taking advantage of the soil’s ability to absorb and store phosphorus. Pond and lake stewardship in Town includes the Department of Public Works, Conservation Division and other organizations including private lake and pond associations, the Pond and Lake Stewardship (PALs) Program, the Barnstable Clean Water Coalition (BCWC), the Association to Preserve Cape Cod, and the Cape Cod Ponds Network. Wetland Resources Barnstable is home to over 14,300 acres of wetland resources, including ponds and lakes, marshes, beaches, wooded wetlands, and cran- berry bogs. The Great Marshes area, protected by Sandy Neck, is the largest salt marsh on Cape Cod, and is a state designated Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). Protected buffers around wetland resources provide important habitat and assist in the management of pollutants, trapping or arresting nutrients and sediment before they can flow into wetlands and clog or impair them. Increasingly important, wetland buffers preserved from development will help to store increased stormwater runoff as the climate changes and will allow wetlands to migrate as changes in groundwater height and increased precipitation events occur. Ongoing efforts are being achieved to monitor the Town’s salt marshes and identify vulnerable areas. In particular, Mass Audubon is currently 166 Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, accessed March 6, 2025. https://www.mass.gov/info-details/barnstable-great-marsh-restoration conducting a marsh restoration project for the Great Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary by using salt hay to keep water in the marsh.166 Barnstable is home to over three hundred isolated wetlands, many being cranberry bogs. Some cranberry bogs are an active part of the Cape Cod economy while others are abandoned or protected as open space. There are also 37 certified vernal pools in Barnstable; these small environments are unique because they can recharge local aquifers and provide for a diverse set of animals with conditions ranging from saturated, dry, or frozen. Cranberry bog acquisition and restoration offers multifaceted benefits. First, it enhances water quality by promoting natural filtration processes at headwaters to ponds and streams. Additionally, restored cranberry bogs contribute to healthier ecosystems by supporting diverse plant and animal life. Restoration of these habi- tats often involves implementing water storage which can help with localized flooding during extreme weather events and can play a role in climate change mitigation. It is important that the Town has a say in the acquisition of these important resource areas. Open Space & Recreation Habitat Habitats provide many benefits to humans through the ecosystem services they provide, such as recreational access, filtering of nutrients or air quality, provision of food and other needed resources, and mitigating the threats from natural hazards. BioMap, a statewide habitat mapping tool developed by MassWildlife and The Nature Conservancy, identifies 15,107 acres of Critical Natural Landscapes (CNLs) 193Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources within Barnstable. There are many threats to these habitat resources. The subdivision of large tracts of land, for example, often replaces native vegetation with impervious surfaces and lawns and fragments remaining habitat. The Town continues to enforce the Resource Protection Overlay District, which maintains a minimum lot size of two acres in most areas of Town. Increased water withdrawals from the water table are another threat to habitat, negatively impacting delicate wetlands and freshwater shorelines. Fluctuating water levels support unique species; however, lower pond levels could disturb habitats. Threats also include climate change, invasive species, and the reduction of natural distur- bances. Natural disturbances, such as wildfire or severe storms, are necessary to maintain the diversity of vegetation groupings that define that area’s woodlands, heathlands, and coastal plain pond shores. Barnstable’s challenge, along with the rest of the region, is to find ways to protect remaining undeveloped lands, manage habitat to support diverse vegetation, and target invasive species incursions. Conservation & Recreation Among the implications of growth is a loss of open space and associated natural resources. The need to plan for and address open space for recreation and resource protection remains one of the top priorities in Barnstable today. Approximately 29% of the area of the town is open space protected in perpetuity (11,469 acres). This is an increase of 524 acres from 2010 to 2022. Areas held by the water districts for drinking water protection represent a large portion of the remaining undeveloped land in Barnstable. Land acquisitions along Route 6 make up the “backbone” of the Town’s conservation lands and contribute to regional green infrastruc- ture. Conservation efforts continue to focus on smaller corridors running north-south and linking Ellen A. McBarron Recreation Facility. Town of Barnstable Communications 194Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources to the larger conservation greenway along the moraine. Property acquisitions along Barnstable coastlines support highly productive ecosystems, provide popular recreation opportunities, and preserve the scenic quality of the seashore. Additional open space exists without protection or with limited protections. Opportunities to purchase land in the watersheds of sensitive or impaired water bodies, particularly as buffers between the water body and surrounding land uses, can minimize pollution threats and should be priorities for future public acquisition. Resource management problems include illegal trash dumping, unauthorized motorized off-road vehicle use, and vandalism on conservation and other open space parcels. The cleanup and disposal of illegally dumped material is a nuisance and an added cost burden to the Town. Such activities also pose environmental hazards. Despite enforcement efforts by the Natural Resources Division and Police Department, unauthorized vehicle use is a continued problem. Agencies remain vigilant in their monitoring at sites of illegal dumping and in prosecution of violators. The Conservation Commission and Conservation Program, as well as the Property Management Division have been very proactive in protecting conservation and open space lands from unauthorized vehicular access and illegal dumping with locked gates and large boulders. The Town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan, adopted in 2018, helps guide the maintenance and expansion of the Town’s open space and recreational resources. Maps Mapping is an important tool for visualizing natural resources policies. The maps below can help the community see where development should be moderated or prohibited to protect important natural resources. Please see the Existing Conditions Report (page 22) for a fuller range of maps. 195Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Map 6 .1 . Open Space by Level of Protection Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay PopponessetBay Cotuit Bay LakeWequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C enterville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah's Pond Ste w art's CreekJoshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond Crystal Lake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond P i r ates C ov e BogPond LongPond EaglePond Hinckley Pond ColemanPondIshemPond MillPond Patty's Pond MillPond IsraelPond West Pond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond Weathervane Pond Flax Pond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond Duck Pond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove SnowsC re ek M illCreekMaraspin C reekBass C r eekFawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver Bu mpsRiver FullerMillPondEel Ri verPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverMarstons MillsRiver Snow's Cove S cortonCreek TheCove W ells CreekGreatIslandCreekEel Cree kSmithCreek Boat CoveCreekSpr i ng Creek Bridge Creek BrickyardCreekNantucket Sound BroadSound Eel GrassCove Tim'sCove TheNarrow s Warren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Open Space by Level of Protection Map Legend open_space_lop.mxd 2-3.25Source: Town of Barnstable, MassGIS MassGIS OpenSpace: Level of Protection (Jan 2024) In Perpetuity Limited None Town Boundary Line Roads Railroad Tracks 196Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Map 6 .2 . Open Space by Level of Protection & Land Owned by Water Districts Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay Popponesset Bay Cotuit Bay Lake Wequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C en terville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah'sPond Ste w art's Creek Joshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond CrystalLake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond Pir a te s Cove BogPond LongPond EaglePond HinckleyPond ColemanPond IshemPond MillPond Patty'sPond MillPond IsraelPond WestPond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond WeathervanePond FlaxPond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond DuckPond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove SnowsC r eek M illCreekMaraspin C re ek Fawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver B umpsRiver FullerMillPondEel Riv erPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverM arstons MillsRiver Snow'sCove Nantucket Sound Tim'sCove TheNarrow sWarren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Open Space by Level of Protection & Land Owned by Water Districts Map Legend open_space_lopWDv2.mxd 2-28.25Source: Town of Barnstable, MassGIS MassGIS OpenSpace: Level of Protection (Jan 2024) In Perpetuity Limited None Water Districts Land Town Boundary Line Roads Railroad Tracks 197Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Map 6 .3 . Open Space by Level of Protection & Core Habitat & Critical Landscape Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay PopponessetBay Cotuit Bay LakeWequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C enterville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah's Pond Ste w art's CreekJoshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond Crystal Lake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond P i r ates C ov e BogPond LongPond EaglePond Hinckley Pond ColemanPondIshemPond MillPond Patty's Pond MillPond IsraelPond West Pond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond Weathervane Pond Flax Pond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond Duck Pond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove SnowsC re ek M illCreekMaraspin C reekBass C r eekFawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver Bu mpsRiver FullerMillPondEel Ri verPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverMarstons MillsRiver Snow's Cove S cortonCreek TheCove W ells CreekGreatIslandCreekEel Cree kSmithCreek Boat CoveCreekSpr i ng Creek Bridge Creek BrickyardCreekNantucket Sound BroadSound Eel GrassCove Tim'sCove TheNarrow s Warren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Open Space by Level of Protection & Core Habitat & Critical Landscape Map Legend open_space_corehabitat.mxd 2-3.25Source: Town of Barnstable, MassGIS MassGIS OpenSpace: Level of Protection (Jan 2024) In Perpetuity Limited None Biomap Core Habitat & Critical Natural Landscape (May 2024) Town Boundary Line Roads Railroad Tracks 198Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources Map 6 .4 . Land Protected in Perpetuity, Land Owned by Water Districts, Recreation Facilities & Cemeteries Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay Popponesset Bay Cotuit Bay Lake Wequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C en terville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah'sPond Stewart's Creek Joshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond CrystalLake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond Pi ra te s Cov e BogPond EaglePond HinckleyPond ColemanPond IshemPond MillPond Patty'sPond MillPond IsraelPond WestPond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond WeathervanePond FlaxPond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond DuckPond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove Snow sC r eek M illCreekMaraspin C re ek Fawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver B umpsRiver FullerMillPondEel Riv erPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverM arstons MillsRiver Snow'sCove Nantucket Sound Tim'sCove TheNarrow sWarren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond Town of Sandwich Town of Mashpee Map Legend Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W MassGIS OpenSpace: Level of Protection In Perpetuity Water Department Lands Recreation Facilities (Parks, Fields, Courts & Beaches) !Town Cemeteries Roads Railroad Tracks Town Boundary Water Bodies land protected rec facilities cemeteries.mxd 2-28-25 Land Protected in Perpetuity & Recreation Facilities & Cemeteries Town of Barnstable, MassGIS 199Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources GOAL #1 Continue to conduct long-range land use and capital facilities planning for future provision and protection of Barnstable’s public water supply. Actions A. The Town will continue to collaborate with independent water districts to analyze data and implement plans to acquire future wells and associated lands before development occurs and designate Zones of Contribution and Wellhead Protection Zones for future public supply wells. GOAL #2 Continue to prioritize the public acquisition of lands within 400 feet of a future public supply well Zone I, as well as Zone II areas most susceptible to contamination. Actions A. Coordinate with adjacent communities, as applicable, when land surrounding a future public supply well expands into or abuts another town. B. Maintain a map that depicts all Zone I and Zone II areas overlaid with existing conservation lands. C. Develop a plan to prioritize acquisition of land that is contiguous with Zone I and Zone II areas. GOAL #3 Continue to practice water conservation measures to help ensure adequate water supply. Actions A. The Town’s Water Supply Division and the water districts in Town will aggressively expand their Water Conservation Programs, by combining public education with incentives and regulatory tools to drive measurable reductions in water use. This potentially includes subsidized distribution of WaterSense-certified fixtures, rebates for low-water-use landscaping, and targeted outreach to reduce excessive irrigation. Natural Resources Goals & Actions 200Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources GOAL #4 Control erosion in barrier beaches and coastal banks to the greatest extent possible to protect important wildlife habitat and recreational amenities and provide storm surge protection. Actions A. Accomplish the Sandy Neck Beach Park coastal resiliency project. GOAL #5 Develop a long-term restoration plan for the town’s salt marshes. Actions A. Identify and map potential areas for marsh migration and prioritize protec- tion of these areas in collaboration with local nonprofits like Mass Audubon, Orenda, and others that already have started this type of work. B. Establish techniques to increase accretion of saltwater marshes to help them keep up with sea level rise over time. C. Build on the work conducted to date through the Ecosystem Restoration Program in collaboration with the Association to Preserve Cape Cod. D. Continue to identify and protect the Town’s remaining eelgrass beds. GOAL #6 Update and expand the scope of the Town’s Coastal Resource Management Plan (2009) to provide guidance for the various competing uses of all the Town’s harbors and coastal resources including balancing protecting habitat and overall coastal water quality and providing coastal access for passive and active water dependent recreational activities. Actions A. Explore establishing moratoriums on new (non pre-existing) or expansion of existing docks and moorings until the plan is updated to evaluate the effects of these structures on shellfish and other habitat. B. Evaluate proactive planning and permitting to protect endangered species habitat while still providing recreational opportunity to the public. 201Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources GOAL #7 Within lake and pond recharge areas, development or redevelopment located within 300 feet of freshwater water boundaries shall be required to meet critical nutrient loading standards. A. Continue to explore requiring or incentivizing emerging technologies for septic systems in priority areas not identified to be sewered through the Town’s Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) and ensure appropriate management of septic systems. B. Provide outreach to property owners so they are aware of and take advantage of the state tax credit, as applicable, for installing emerging technologies for septic systems. C. Develop a pilot project for emerging technologies for septic systems for properties not identified to be sewered within the timeframe of this plan. D. Engage in regional efforts including the Cape Cod Commission’s Regional Pond Monitoring Program to monitor water quality for the Town’s ponds and lakes and other ways in which the Town can track TMDLs. Field Work at Hamblin Pond. Amber Unruh 202Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources GOAL #8 Continue to coordinate an inventory and analysis of all of the Town’s freshwater ponds and lakes to evaluate the status of each waterbody including water quality and additional impacts like flooding. Actions A. Continue to institute the Town’s Pond and Lake Management Plan Program which involves monitoring nutrient sources to better understand the sources that impair our freshwater ponds and lakes and develop manage- ment reports with recommendations to restore water quality. GOAL #9 Maximize the ecological health of the Town’s 5 herring runs. Actions A. Identify and map obstructions along the herring runs. GOAL #10 Examine opportunities to enhance communications to abutters for large-scale proposals submitted to the Conservation Commission. Actions A. Explore the ability to require notification of proposals within 300 feet of a pond to all property owners along the pond shoreline. GOAL #11 Establish a living list of native and climate resilient tree and shrub species of all sizes that can thrive in current and future climate condi- tions projected for the region, paired with a list of complementary best practices for planting and maintenance. Actions A. At application, provide applicant with the tree and shrub list to promote biodiversity especially within wetland buffers and forested areas and provide guidance for urban verses rural streetscaping and for open space environments. 203Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources GOAL #12 Increase tree canopy and vegetation buffers to protect sensitive areas and enhance wildlife habitat. Actions A. Continue to implement the Greening Hyannis program to increase tree canopy. B. The Conservation Commission shall establish objective and consistent criteria for requiring a larger buffer (e.g. where the standard buffers are inadequate to protect sensitive areas or where the site conditions such as slopes or soils suggest that a larger buffer is necessary to prevent adverse impacts). C. Investigate Town land for potential to develop a tree farm. Identify where more trees could be added on Town land not subject to coastal flooding. GOAL #13 Analyze town-owned properties to identify areas, especially within the right-of-way, that can be improved with vegetation, such as existing medians. Actions A. Explore opportunities to expand the Town’s Adopt-A-Spot Program and prioritize use of low-maintenance native perennials. GOAL #14 Explore opportunities to increase aquaculture on the south side of Town. Actions A. Evaluate mechanism for shellfish habitat protection. 204Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources GOAL #15 The Town will consider regulations that place more responsibility on property owners regarding environmentally sound practices, and lead by example with its own practices, including, but not limited to: Actions A. Explore incentives for ecological landscaping such as a rain garden rebate program. Promote reduction of lawn areas and elimination of irrigation. B. Explore establishing a tree bank program through which trees can be planted or donated as off-site mitigation. C. Explore potential opportunities for the Town to grow indigenous plants to be accessible to residents at no cost. D. Establish regulations on fertilizer, herbicides, and pesticides consistent with State laws. E. Explore opportunities to provide a pet waste drop off at the Town’s waste- water treatment plant. Ways to Water Signage West Bay Road Osterville. Town of Barnstable Communications 205Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources GOAL #16 The Town will pursue the goals of its Open Space and Recreation Plan, adopted in 2018, including: Actions A. Increase open space to enhance environmental protection, recreational opportunities and community character. B. Develop priority list of parcels for “undevelopment” for traffic mitigation and associated open space protection. C. Evaluate success of the Town’s Open Space Residential development (aka “cluster”) ordinance in preserving open space, and develop recommenda- tion to revise the ordinance. D. Identify and prioritize parcels for protection through easements, conserva- tion restrictions and other non-regulatory means. E. Encourage the accommodation of public access rights in conservation restrictions on non-sensitive land through establishing an incentive program for landowner donations. GOAL #17 Continue to expand the Ways to Water Program, to re-establish and/or designate through appropriate legal means traditional rights of ways to the water to ensure that these are not lost or abandoned. Actions A. Continue to develop and maintain signage, and outreach programs, including GIS mapping for posting to the Town’s website. 206Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Natural Resources CHAPTER 7Infrastructure Vision Statement »Protect and improve the quality and quantity of our drinking water. »Prepare and adapt to climate impacts including sea level rise. »Enable people to travel safely and efficiently by the mode of their choice. »Build essential infrastructure that is resilient, adaptable, and sustainable and minimizes its environmental impact. 207 CHAPTER XChapter Title Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan Construction. Town of Barnstable Communications 208Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure Why Infrastructure Matters The Town of Barnstable protects, preserves, and improves a broad range of facilities and infrastructure that serves to meet and enhance the current and future social and economic needs of the community and contribute to a healthy, safe, and quality environment. The level at which these services are delivered is influ- enced by changes in population, development, environmental factors, regulatory changes, and economic conditions. Evaluating service capacity in combination with anticipated changes in community needs can help the Town determine strategic infrastructure and program investments for the near- and long-term. Please see Chapter 2: Built Systems (page 59) of the Existing Conditions Report for more detailed information on water supply, waste- water management, stormwater management, transportation, and public services and utilities. Infrastructure Actions Since 2010 Since the Local Comprehensive Plan was last updated in 2010, the regional approach to infrastructure, especially as it relates to water resource management, changed dramatically. In 2015, Cape Cod’s Area Wide Water Quality Management Plan, commonly known as the 208 Plan, was adopted by Governor Charlie Baker and provided the region with a framework to restore embayment water quality on Cape Cod. In the years since, the Town of Barnstable, responding to years of underinvestment in centralized wastewater infrastructure, actions from outside organizations such as the Conservation Law Foundation, and eventually 2023 changes to DEP Title V regulations, crafted, adopted and is implementing a Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan. The Town has also worked proactively to address the needs of its transportation system, looking not just to maintain the 250 miles of public road- ways, but to evaluate how streets can be made safer for all users and make contributions to a community that has a healthier and improved quality of life. All of the efforts above are done within the context of both planning for future climate resilience, and responding to the impacts of more frequent and intense storms experienced over the last decade. Policies, Priorities, and Plans The 2010 LCP called for the creation and adoption of several new or updated plans, many of which have been addressed since then. Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan The CWMP is a town-wide, state approved, science-based plan to protect Barnstable’s coastal waters, ponds, and drinking water by managing nutrient pollution from wastewater. This 30-year plan will cost an estimated $1.4 billion to implement. Infrastructure7 209Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure Water Supply New Source Alternatives Report To address regulatory requirements for water supply redundancy and long-term planning, a study of potential future well sites was conducted for public property across the Town of Barnstable. Seven sites were determined for additional test well drilling, and nine wells were constructed across the seven sites in spring 2020, six of which were deemed hydro-geo- logically favorable. Sites were evaluated and ranked based on pump yield and water quality test results. Complete Streets In January of 2022, the Town of Barnstable was officially recognized as a Complete Streets community with an approved policy. Complete Streets are designed for people of all ages and all abilities and prioritize safety, comfort and acces- sibility. In adopting a Complete Streets policy, the Town has committed to plan, design, maintain and operate right-of-ways, as determined feasible and practical, to improve the quality of life for the community. A Complete Streets Prioritization Plan was developed with assistance from the Cape Cod Commission that includes a priority list of ranked multi-modal projects to improve safety for all users, including motorists, pedestrians, transit Barnstable Village. Town of Barnstable Communications 210Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure users and bicyclists for people of all ages and abilities, while making streets safer, sustainable, and more accessible to promote a more livable community. The project allows the Town to obtain up to $500,000 in construction funding grants from MassDOT to implement complete streets projects included in the Plan. Downtown Hyannis Great Streets The Downtown Hyannis Great Streets effort was focused on a study area including Hyannis Main Street and the surrounding roadway network and sought to address congestion, placing more of an emphasis on pedestrians, enhance the public realm through placemaking in support of economic development, employ traffic calming measures to enhance safety, and encourage multi-modal transportation. The Town of Barnstable’s Planning & Development and Public Works Departments partnered with walkability expert Jeff Speck and Stantec Consulting Services to complete this project. The end result of this process was buildable street designs concepts that convert the one-way network to two-way travel, address key intersections including 'Six Points' at South Street, Ocean Street and Old Colony Road, add proposed bicycle network, and create enhanced public spaces. Downtown Hyannis Parking Management Plan The 2017 Parking Management Plan for Downtown Hyannis developed a comprehensive approach for the entire downtown parking system, with the goal of providing convenient, accessible parking as part of a multi-modal transportation system. The plan sought to maxi- mize value of the existing parking system, better connect the harbor to downtown, and develop a wayfinding and signage strategy for downtown. Cape Cod Commission Low Lying Roads Cape Cod Commission worked with all 15 Cape towns to examine vulnerabilities in the roadway network and identify adaptation alternatives. The Commission conducted a vulnerability assessment of roadway segments, bridges, and culverts due to flooding from the combined effects of sea level rise and storm surge. The project employed state of the art modeling and community engagement to identify and prioritize low lying roads to target for coastal resiliency action. The Town received design solutions for two road segments: Bridge Street, Osterville and Ocean Street, Hyannis. Issues & Opportunities The facilities and infrastructure maintained by the Town of Barnstable face challenges including resilience to climate change (sea-level rise, intense storms, etc.), rising costs of construction and maintenance, and fluctuating seasonal demand. The Town has the opportunity, through anticipating needs and regulations, evaluating changing environmental and social conditions, and coordinating implementation, to protect, preserve, and improve facilities and infrastruc- ture for the next generation. Barnstable’s Community Resilience building workshop identified low-lying infrastructure as a most concerning challenge facing the Town considering flooding and sea level rise impacts from climate change, and many critical facilities lie within vulnerable areas of the Town, threatened by sea level rise, SLOSH (Sea, Lake, and Overland Surges from Hurricanes), and/or flooding. 211Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure Transportation Barnstable seeks to invest in safe, accessible, and affordable transportation for all its residents. Transportation systems and connectivity across Barnstable are contributors to long-term economic vitality and the overall resiliency of the community. There is a lack of access across Barnstable, with limited fixed bus routes to connect individuals surrounding communities, to popular beaches and open space, or to connect villagers to the community at large. The CapeCod Rail Trail (CCRT) stops at Barnstable’s east and west border but does not yet traverse the town at this time. Efforts are currently being coordinated to extend the CCRT through the Town of Barnstable to the Sandwich town line with construction of the initial phase extending from the current trail in Yarmouth anticipated to commence Spring 2025. 167 Economic Development Analysis Interview—October 14, 2022. Challenges along the Main Street area of Hyannis including the nearby feeder roads include the upkeep of sidewalks and street- scapes, one-way roads unfamiliar to visitors, and an abundance of disparate parking lots.167 Connections from downtown Hyannis to Hyannis Harbor include multiple intersections, one-way roads, and high stress pedestrian infrastructure. Residents and visitors would benefit from more connective infrastructure that helps pedestrians and cyclists navigate downtown with municipal parking opportunities on the periphery. A lot of travel though Barnstable is auto-centric. Three main east-to-west roadways go through Barnstable: U.S. Route 6/Mid-Cape Highway, Route 6A/Old King’s Highway, and Route 28/ Falmouth Road. According to mobile count data from the Cape Cod Commission, Barnstable Osterville Village. Town of Barnstable Communications 212Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure has some of the highest volume-to-capacity thresholds in Cape Cod throughout the year. Between 2018 and 2022, six of the region’s top ten crash locations were in Barnstable. Five of the crash locations were on Route 28 and the sixth location was on Route 132.168 Furthermore, storm surge, culvert flooding, and sea level rise at times make many roads along the north and south bays impassable. The Town allocates at least $3.75 million annually to the public roads pavement management program, in addition to annual operating budgets dedicated to administration, engineering, highway maintenance, and snow and ice response. The Town currently maintains a modest budget to address private roads ($93,000) and also provides snow and ice response. The Town is actively discussing and evaluating the fiscal and operating impacts of taking private roads, especially those impacted by implementation of the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan, those that are primary and collector roads, and those who have participated in the Temporary Repairs to Private Road program (23 roads) or have had recent sewer installation. To date, staff has evaluated private roads impacted by the CWMP and has begun to pursue easements to certify its right to utilities in said roads, as well as inventoried private roads that are eligible for maintenance under special legislation passed in 2014 (44 roads). The Town was recently awarded grant funding from the Federal Highway Administration Safe Streets and Roads for All program and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to 168 Cape Cod Commission. Barnstable County High Crash Locations A Review of the Top 50 Crash Locations on Cape Cod (2021–2023) March 2025. 169 Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority: “Overview, DART: Dial-A-Ride Transportation.” Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Accessed October 2022 170 “Transportation.” Barnstable Council on Aging. Accessed October 2022. conduct Road Safety Audits (RSA) at 14 intersec- tions identified as being high-risk for vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. The intersections include: High School Road at South Street West Main Street at Lincoln Road, Old Stage Road and Oak Street, High School Road at Main Street, South Street at Pleasant Street, Stevens Street at Bassett Lane, Barnstable Road at Center Street/Charles Street, North Street at Stevens Street, Main Street from Camp Street to Center Street/ Old Colony Road, Yarmouth Road at Old Yarmouth Road/Maher Road, North Street from west of Winter Street to Sea Street Extension, Phinney’s Lane at Old Strawberry Hill Road, Old Stage Road at Oak Street, and Old Stage Road at Old Falmouth Road. The audits will produce a report for each intersection identifying safety concerns and recommending safety enhancements. The data and information captured within the audits can be used to apply for grants for future safety upgrades. Major contributors to car reliance are certain public transportation limitations, such as limited bus service (particularly in West Barnstable, Barnstable, and Cotuit) and a dearth of protected, connected biking infrastructure. Fortunately, there are many services that address these limitations. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) offers a door-to-door, appointment-based ride service called DART.169 In collaboration with CCRTA, the Council on Aging offers the Village Van service for 55+ and disabled residents, where the fares are suggested donations.170 CCRTA 213Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure FACT SHEET FOOTNOTES 1 Town of Barnstable Department of Public Works Geographic Information System (GIS) December 2024 2 Town of Barnstable Comprehensive Wastewater Plan Section 5-3 Table 5-1 Sewer Expansion Plan—Phasing Statistics 3 Town of Barnstable Department of Public Works presentation March 2024 4 Town of Barnstable, Massachusetts ADA Self Evaluation and Transition Plan Sidewalks and Curb Ramps Volume 2, March 2024, p. 1 5 Town of Barnstable Geographic Information System (GIS) Map December 2017 Infrastructure Fact Sheet Town of Barnstable Infrastructure by the Mile 40 miles of broadband fiber 5 260 miles of public roads 3 190 miles of private roads 3 84 miles of sidewalk/shared use paths along town roads 4 190 miles of sewer lines that the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan calls for adding to the Town's sewer collection system over the next 30 years 2 83 miles of existing sewer lines 1 214Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure provides additional transportation opportunities to help people get to appointments at major Boston-area hospitals.171 Bus passengers can bring standard two-wheel bicycles on buses, helping to address limited connectivity between bike paths. Additional bus options include the Plymouth and Brockton bus line and the Peter Pan bus line, which bring residents to and from Boston’s South Station and Logan Airport.172 Other public transportation options include the seasonal CapeFLYER rail service, which operates on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, bringing people to and from Boston and Southeastern Massachusetts.173 Steamship Authority ferries and Hy-line Cruises take travelers to and from Barnstable and Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. Capital Facilities Drinking Water The Barnstable drinking water supply is provided by the Cape Cod sole source aquifer, an underground layer of porous soil through which groundwater can flow. Its sandy nature leaves the Cape Cod aquifer vulnerable to contamination since there is less time for natural filtration. All of Cape Cod is reliant on this aquifer for its drinking water (excluding, of course, any water transported to Cape Cod from elsewhere), making it an especially important resource to protect. The Town of Barnstable Water Supply Division, an enterprise account-funded division under the Department of Public Works, was created by action of the Town Council following the Town’s acquisition of the assets of the Barnstable 171 Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority: “Boston Hospital, The Cape to Boston Hospitals.” Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Accessed October 2022 172 “Plymouth and Brockton Daily Bus Routes.” Plymouth & Brockton. Accessed October 2022. 173 Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority: “CapeFLYER Schedules & Services.” Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Accessed October 2022. https://capecodrta.org/schedules-services/capeflyer/ Water Company in May 2005. This Division is responsible for management of the water distribution system primarily utilized by the residents and businesses in Hyannis. Outside of Hyannis, there are four independently governed water districts: Barnstable, West Barnstable, Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills, and Cotuit. West Barnstable has water commissioners, but they do not provide public water; all properties in West Barnstable are served by private wells. Threats to water security and water resources generally are chemicals, including polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), whose presence has been increasingly identified locally. The Town of Barnstable tests for PFAS and a variety of other pollutants and treats water to meet or exceed all public health standards. Wastewater Management Protecting water quality is vital to the health and future of the Barnstable community and the region, and wastewater management plays a critical role. Infrastructure to handle and treat wastewater (household, commercial, and industrial wastes) can protect our embayments and groundwater for the health of the commu- nity and the natural environment. Barnstable’s wastewater and sewer infrastructure include Water infrastructure, from culverts and drainage to wastewater treatment to drinking water, is critical to public health. 215Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure a secondary wastewater treatment plant, 30 sewage pump stations, and 55 miles of collection sewers, a pretreatment program for industrial wastewater, and a laboratory for process control/testing. Septic systems are proportionally the biggest source of nitrogen contamination throughout Cape Cod, harming ecosystems and potentially affecting water resources. Fortunately, they are also the most addressable source of nitrogen contamination. Additional efforts by the Town of Barnstable to reduce nitrogen from point source contamination include a geographic information systems (GIS) tool that analyzes the water conditions on a lot-by-lot basis. The CWMP calls to expand the Town’s sewer collection system by approximately 190 miles of sewer lines over 30 years. Climate change poses risks to Barnstable’s wastewater systems since more frequent and intense storms and sea level rise could threaten infrastructure, including sewer pumping stations. Additionally, nonprofits, like the Barnstable Clean Water Coalition (BCWC), have worked with the Environmental Protection Agency to implement innovative/alternative wastewater solutions, such as alternative septic systems, bog restoration, and dredging. Stormwater Management Stormwater includes all precipitation and snowmelt that runs off surfaces such as roofs, pavement, and even lawns instead of absorbing into soil and natural groundcover. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified disturbance of land and polluted stormwater runoff as major sources of water pollution and has mandated local action to miti- gate this pollutant through a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit requirement for each applicable municipality, including the Town of Barnstable. Managing runoff is necessary for the protection of the Town of Barnstable’s water bodies and groundwater resources and to safeguard the public health, safety, and welfare and the natural resources of the Town. The Town is currently pursuing Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) compliance through updated local standards and regula- tions. These regulations seek to achieve proper treatment and management of stormwater runoff to improve water quality and capture and treat runoff which can contain sediment, bacteria, fertilizers, oils, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals before it gets to our water bodies and groundwater resources. In addition, the Town and other partners have been working to establish, maintain, and leverage green stormwater infrastructure (GSI). GSI methods reduce and treat runoff while also Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan Construction. DPW 216Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure providing shade, habitat, and beautification and include approaches such as rain gardens, removing impervious cover, and constructed wetlands. In the Three Bays Watershed, the Town of Barnstable DPW has recently collab- orated with APCC, the Horsley Witten Group (a consulting firm), and several environmental non-profit organizations to implement several GSI approaches. Energy An effective energy policy and implementation program should include energy efficiency, distributed generation, renewable energy components, and a plan to measure, monitor, and reduce energy consumption town wide. The Town of Barnstable has inventoried greenhouse gas emissions at town-owned buildings and is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) including through energy efficiency and renewable energy efforts. The town has efforts underway to increase the use of renewable energy at town facilities and pursue electrification of facilities and fleets. These efforts support the overall resilience of the town’s infrastructure and facilities, and can promote healthier, sustainable, environments. Waste Management The solid waste facility in Barnstable is managed by the Barnstable DPW through its Solid Waste Division. The solid waste facility, a transfer station, is located in Marstons Mills, which is operated strictly for solid waste generated within the Town of Barnstable. The facility accepts trash (municipal solid waste), in addition Solar panels at the transfer station. Town of Barnstable Communications 217Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure to recycling paper products, cans and bottles, plastics (where appropriate), leaves, scrap metal, white goods, motor oil, televisions, rechargeable batteries, computer monitors, tires, paint, mattresses, mercury products, fluorescent bulbs, cell phones, books and food waste. The recycling program also supports clothing and bottle redemption donations as well as a swap shop. Households in Barnstable can buy up to two Transfer Station Permits that they can use for household recycling and waste every week. Accommodation is made for residents facing financial hardship. There are opportunities throughout the year for hazardous waste collec- tion for both households and local businesses through the County Extension’s Household Hazardous Waste program. Maps Mapping is an important tool for visualizing poli- cies. The maps below can help the community see where important infrastructure exists today and where it can be planned for the future. Please see the Existing Conditions Report (page 22) for a fuller range of maps. 218Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure Map 7 .1 . Transportation Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay Popponesset Bay Cotuit Bay Lake Wequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C en terville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah'sPond Stew art's Creek Joshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond CrystalLake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond Pir a tes Cov e BogPond EaglePond HinckleyPond ColemanPond IshemPond MillPond Patty'sPond MillPond IsraelPond WestPond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond WeathervanePond FlaxPond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond DuckPond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove SnowsC r eek M illCreekMaraspin C re ek Fawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver B umpsRiver FullerMillPondE el Ri v e rPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverM arsto ns MillsRiver Snow'sCove Nantucket Sound Tim'sCove TheNarrow sWarren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond Town of Sandwich Town of Mashpee Map Legend ÿN E S W Z Airports Jb Park & Ride U Transit Stops Ferries Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) Route Existing Multi-Use Path Proposed Multi-Use Path Roads Railroad Tracks Town Boundary LCP_transportation_map.mxd 2-26-25 Town of Barnstable Massachusetts Transportation Town of Barnstable, MassGIS 219Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure Map 7 .2 . Mixed-Use and Non-Residential Zoning Districts & Future Sewer Service Areas Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay Popponesset Bay Cotuit Bay Lake Wequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C en terville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah'sPond Stew art's Creek Joshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond CrystalLake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond Pir a tes Cov e BogPond LongPond EaglePond HinckleyPond ColemanPond IshemPond MillPond Patty'sPond MillPond IsraelPond WestPond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond WeathervanePond FlaxPond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond DuckPond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove SnowsC r eek M illCreekMaraspin C re ek Fawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver B umpsRiver FullerMillPondE el Ri v e rPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverM arsto ns MillsRiver Snow'sCove Nantucket Sound Tim'sCove TheNarrow sWarren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond Town of Sandwich Town of Mashpee WBVBD HB HB HB BA MB-B VB-A B HB INDltd HO VB-A S&D SD-1 MB-A1 HB HB IND B HB B UB BA MMVD B CVD MB-A2 DN HH HH DH DV TC DN HC DMS DV DNDV Map Legend ÿN E S W Mixed-Use and Non-Residential Zoning Districts & Future Sewer Service Areas.mxd 2-26-25 Town of Barnstable Massachusetts Mixed Use and Non-Residential Zoning Districts & Future Service Areas Future Service Areas Phase 1: 0-10 Years (Jan 2025) Phase 2: 11-20 Years Phase 2: 21-30 Years Roads Railroad Tracks Town Boundary Mixed Use/Non-Residential Zoning DistrictsZoning Districts 220Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure Map 7 .3 . Existing Parcels Improved with Sewer Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay Popponesset Bay Cotuit Bay Lake Wequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C en terville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah'sPond Stew art's Creek Joshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond CrystalLake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond Pir a tes Cov e BogPond LongPond EaglePond HinckleyPond ColemanPond IshemPond MillPond Patty'sPond MillPond IsraelPond WestPond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond WeathervanePond FlaxPond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond DuckPond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove SnowsC r eek M illCreekMaraspin C re ek Fawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver B umpsRiver FullerMillPondE el Ri v e rPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverM arsto ns MillsRiver Snow'sCove Nantucket Sound Tim'sCove TheNarrow sWarren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond Town of Sandwich Town of Mashpee Map Legend ÿN E S W Active Sewer Accounts (Jan 2025) Roads Railroad Tracks Town Boundary Water Bodies sewered_parcels.mxd 2-24-25 Town of Barnstable Massachusetts Existing Parcels Improved with Sewer 221Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure Infrastructure Goals & Actions GOAL #1 Identify and prioritize improvements to low-lying roads to improve resilience. Actions A. Identify and coordinate designs and improvements for priority low-lying roads including Bridge Street, and Ocean Street defined as top priorities within the Cape Cod Commission’s Low-Lying Roads Project and other roadways identified as priorities. GOAL #2 Expand transit options within and to employment centers, village centers, and areas of concentrated residential development. Explore options for increasing Barnstable’s connectivity with off-Cape destina- tions, including by rail. Actions A. Coordinate with the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) to enhance transit options to existing and potential developments. B. Seek opportunities to extend the CapeFLYER to provide year-round service. GOAL #3 Address accessibility deficiencies across Barnstable’s transportation system, making transportation options safe and accessible for people of all ages and abilities, languages, and cultures. Actions A. Conduct an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance audit on the accessibility and safety of bus stops and other transit facilities, busy intersections and intersections with high crash rates, roadway signage, etc. Prioritize this analysis within Hyannis and use lessons learned to expand the audit townwide. B. Continue to coordinate the Downtown Hyannis Great Streets project for the conversion of Main Street and surrounding street networks to two-way circulation to support safe and walkable neighborhoods. 222Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure GOAL #4 Explore multi-modal facilities and operations to reduce vehicle travel and land dedicated to parking in Downtown Hyannis for ferry service. Actions A. Explore ability to coordinate remote parking access as well as opportunities to improve pedestrian and bicycle access to transportation hubs such as the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority and the Cape Cod Gateway Airport. GOAL #5 Use parking facilities to their full capacity and look for opportunities to develop joint uses. Actions A. Explore regulatory opportunities to incentivize joint uses for underutilized parking lots. B. Explore opportunities to add structured parking in Downtown Hyannis in order to reduce the parking footprint. Consider potential for incorporation of a rooftop garden, solar panels and parking spaces for motorcoaches. GOAL #6 Continue to pursue roadway easements for sewer installation on private roads impacted by the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan. Actions A. Continue to develop a policy for the Town to take over ownership and responsibility of private roads. GOAL #7 Actively participate, submit projects, and seek priority on the Cape Cod Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to leverage State and Federal funding for local and/or regional priority transportation projects. Actions A. Continue to prioritize submission of priority roadway improvement projects to the TIP. 223Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure GOAL #8 Continue to build out the Town’s system of bike lanes, bike paths, bike routes, and related amenities, prioritizing safety and connections with other existing bikeways, the future Cape Cod Rail Trail, and linkages to public facilities, recreation and conservation areas, village centers, educational facilities, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority, etc. Actions A. Complete the Cape Cod Rail Trail in Barnstable that connects from Yarmouth to Sandwich and coordinate multi-modal connections to the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. GOAL #9 Continue to implement the Town’s Complete Streets Policy and Prioritization Plan. Actions A. Submit priority roadway improvement projects to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to obtain funding for construction of the projects. B. Implement traffic calming measures and incorporate public spaces where possible with the design of new roadways. GOAL #10 Continue to implement the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) and coordinate updates as required by such factors as growth, environmental impact or regulatory requirements to address the community’s wastewater needs as prescribed by regional, state, and federal regulations. Actions A. Evaluate implementation of the the CWMP every five years or as otherwise required to confirm that the Town is meeting the goals defined within the plan. B. Review and implement programs to require or incentivize emerging technol- ogies for septic systems for properties not identified to be sewered through the CWMP. C. Continue to evaluate actual growth realized vs projected build out to identify capacity of the Town’s on-going sewer improvement in accordance with the CWMP. 224Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure GOAL #11 Coordinate next steps on expanding water supply infrastructure to comply with redundancy requirements and plan for long-term resilience. Actions A. Identify the need to develop one or more new public well sites and develop associated financial strategies. GOAL #12 Continue to update water treatment technology to address regulatory mandates and emerging and known contaminants. Actions A. Explore future expansion of water treatment plan for emerging contami- nants including PFAS and other similar contaminants. Interior Piping Straightway Treatment Plant. DPW 225Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure GOAL #13 Continue to update aging and undersized culverts to improve coastal resiliency, emergency hazard response, and water quality, and restore wildlife habitat, where feasible. Actions A. Update culvert inventory to develop a prioritization plan to coordinate future improvements. GOAL #14 Continue to update and monitor existing greenhouse gas emissions inventories and execute projects to reduce emissions. Actions A. Develop an Energy Efficiency Plan to refine and outline energy reduction goals, strategies to reduce energy consumption and improve energy efficiency, and how progress towards goals will be tracked. GOAL #15 Target improvements to roadways and intersections with the highest crash rate to reduce the number of vehicle and pedestrian crashes and to improve the safety of all users. Actions A. Coordinate Road Safety Audits (RSA) for existing intersections to examine road safety issues and to identify opportunities for improvements in safety for all road users. GOAL #16 Develop a town-wide lighting survey to determine where additional street lighting is necessary to improve vehicular and pedestrian safety. Actions A. Develop a Lighting Plan that focuses on frequently traveled roadways, bike and pedestrian corridors used for daily travel to work and at intersections with high nighttime crash rates. B. Set lighting standards that reduce or eliminate glare and light pollution into the night sky. 226Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Infrastructure CHAPTER 8Facilities Vision Statement »Provide access to high-quality public education, healthcare, human and social services, and a healthy environment. »Create a healthy, safe community, and care for those in need. 227 CHAPTER XChapter Title Barnstable Town Hall. Town of Barnstable Communications 228Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities Why Town Facilities Matter The Town of Barnstable’s facilities play an important role in enhancing the health, safety, education, and economic vitality of the community for both residents and visitors. These facilities provide a platform for delivering a diverse range of educational and recreational services and programs, catering to various ages and interests and fostering a vibrant and connected community. Please see Chapter 2: Built Systems (page 59) of the Existing Conditions Report for more detailed information on town facilities. Facilities Actions Since 2010 The Town of Barnstable last adopted its LCP in 2010. A great deal of work was put into the development of that plan, and it has been actively implemented over the past fourteen years. Below is a high-level overview of some notable implementation achievements related to Town Facilities. Policies, Priorities & Plans The 2010 LCP called for the creation and adoption of several new or updated plans, many of which have been addressed since then. Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) The Town of Barnstable has a separate Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) which provides an action plan for infrastructure and facilities projects and investments proposed to be coordinated within a defined fiscal year and including subsequent fiscal years over a five-year period. The CIP is updated annually upon review and approval from Town Council. Projects are evaluated and scored by a task force comprising senior-level managers from all departments. Town of Barnstable ADA Self Evaluation and Transition Plan (2021) Identifies issues and conditions that could impact individuals with disabilities and sets forth a written process and method to modify, replace, or remove identified Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance issues and conditions over time. Town of Barnstable Legacy Program (2022) Provides a uniform and mindful process for requests to honor Barnstable community members on public properties, through Facilities8 The Town of Barnstable Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) Update (2022) maps critical facilities, including shelters, hospitals, wastewater infrastructure, nursing homes, schools, and others. Mitigation Action #20 in the HMP is to identify, evaluate, and fund measures to reduce risks to these critical facilities. 229Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities the purchase and placement of items that incorporate recognition or commemoration. Cape Cod Gateway Airport Master Plan (2022) The Master Plan is a long-term land use plan for the Gateway Airport required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The primary objectives of the Master Plan are to ensure safe and operationally efficient facilities that meet FAA standards, develop feasible and flexible alter- natives to meet forecasted demand, and define compatible land uses surrounding the airport. Barnstable Public Schools Facilities Condition Assessment (2023) Analysis of existing conditions of the ten (10) Barnstable Public School buildings totaling 1,062,600 gross square feet, a space utilization assessment, and identification of more than 1,000 individual capital improvement projects. Open Space and Recreation Plan (2018) The Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) is a blueprint to guide the Town’s plans, investments, policies and regulations in support of protecting and enhancing open space and recreation Barnstable High School. Alora Lanzillotta 230Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities resources. It provides a realistic plan of action to address issues, challenges and opportunities to meet the community’s open space and recreation needs. Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (2022) Identifies and profiles the Town’s risk and vulner- ability to potential natural hazards. Specifically, this plan assesses the potential impacts of hurri- canes, winter storms, shoreline change/coastal erosion, earthquakes, drought/wildfire, and dam failure and identifies properties, resources, and critical facilities which may be impacted by these hazard events. The plan identifies mitigation strategies and actions aimed at reducing the loss of or damage to life, property, infrastructure and natural, cultural, and economic resources. Comprehensive Athletic Fields and Courts Study (Weston & Sampson for DPW) (2017) The purpose of the study was to determine the types, quantities, and potential locations of athletic fields needed by the Town both now and in the future. The scope of work included docu- menting existing usage, understanding potential future usages based on trends, and comparing that information with an inventory and condition assessment of existing fields to create a 20-year Strategic Plan for capital expenditure, mainte- nance, and future field development. Projects & Initiatives The 2010 LCP called for many strategies and actions for the Town to pursue related to Facilities. Below is a summary of the key achievements. Facility Improvements: Structures Several improvements have been achieved for structures over the last 5 to 10 years including Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility improvements at the Barnstable Community Innovation School and Town Hall including renovating the restrooms at Town Hall and ADA parking spaces at the Innovation School; structural repair and replacement including replacement of the entire roofing system at the Barnstable Community Innovation School, replacement of the fire sprinkler at the Council on Aging, replacement of the truss system within the cafeteria at the Hyannis West Elementary School, removal and replacement of the unit heaters and chiller at the Barnstable Police Department and removal and replace- ment of windows at the West Barnstable Community Building; interior renovations including renovation of the Council on Aging kitchen, interior upgrades the Barnstable Police Department, and replacement of lavatory fixtures and drinking fountains at Barnstable United Elementary School. Facility Improvements: Fields Several improvements have been achieved for fields over the last 5 to 10 years including full reconstruction of the existing softball field and improvements to the parking area at Lombard Resilient infrastructure and municipal facilities that can maintain operation during and after shocks are crucial for providing critical Town services including energy, transport, water, wastewater, waste, and digital communication. While this infrastructure itself is subject to climate impacts and extreme weather, it also plays a role in determining if and how the Town can help its residents during such events. 231Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities FACT SHEET FOOTNOTES 1 Town of Barnstable Geographic Information System (GIS) Ways to Water Map November 2013 2 Town of Barnstable Community Preservation Coordinator July 2024 3 Town of Barnstable Department of Recreation December 2024 Facilities Fact Sheet Between 2006 and 2024 a total of $6,581,169 was awarded with Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds in support of 25 recreation projects .2 There are 89 ways to water in the Town of Barnstable including: marinas, beaches, landings, bulkheads, docks, parks, and boat ramps .1 There are more than 100 facilities managed by the town including:3 19 tennis courts 10 pickleball courts 16 softball fields 23 baseball fields 19 rectangular fields 16 playgrounds 48 28 29 71 22 1889 42 1030 81 7857 64 26 4784 45 77 8079 46 4 7 62 34 89 86 62461 2 49 63 70 2382 85 67 66 58 60 25 55 7636 7435 3220 37 5133 3 5 17 38 75 12 13 8741 69 18 19 73 72 65 8 27 50 68 83 56 53 11 39 59 14 52 44 21 40 3154 1643 232Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities Field as well as relocation of Luke’s Love play- ground and memorial brick walk and installation of 12 pickleball courts and related site work in Marstons Mills. Community Preservation Act (CPA) Facilities Efforts Between 2006–2024 a total of $6,581,169 dollars were awarded with Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds in support of 25 recreation projects. Projects include topograph- ical survey and design for the Cape Cod Rail Trail; playground construction, renovation and equipment; and design and maintenance for and construction of recreation fields. Issues & Opportunities The facilities maintained by the Town of Barnstable face challenges including resilience to climate change, rising costs of construction and maintenance, and fluctuating seasonal demand. The Town has the opportunity, through anticipating needs and regulations, evaluating environmental and social conditions, and coordi- nating implementation to protect, preserve, and improve town facilities for the next generation. Public Facilities and Services Public Safety With a staff of almost 150, the Barnstable Police Department is one of the busiest dispatch centers in Massachusetts. Staff have outgrown existing office spaces and now employ cubicles and village substations to supplement facility needs. In addition, the Department has reported staffing/hiring challenges. Barnstable Police. Alora Lanzillotta 233Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities Barnstable is divided into five fire districts, independently governed by elected Prudential Committees, for the provision of emergency services including fire and emergency medical response. The Hyannis Fire District was the first district formed in 1896 after Town Meeting rejected the creation of a town-wide fire department due to Barnstable’s size and number of villages. All components of public safety face seasonal fluctuations in community needs with an influx of tourists and seasonal populations. Libraries Barnstable is home to seven independent libraries, with one private, non-profit organiza- tion contracted with the Town in each village to provide library services to residents. These seven libraries offer diverse life-long educational opportunities, including youth and adult programming, museum passes, and access to databases and eBooks. They are each a beloved cultural institution and critical to the social cohesion of the villages and neighborhoods they serve. The libraries face challenges including aging buildings and limited physical space. In particular, the Hyannis Public Library, recently developed plans to renovate a portion of the existing building and to add a new addition which will support expanding and evolving programming and services. The proposed reno- vation features a teaching kitchen, a children’s room as well as a separate youth section, flexible spaces to host a range of activities including large workshops and individual study and enhanced access to multiple outdoor spaces. Education The Barnstable Public School District benefits from a diverse student body and a low student to teacher ratio (11.6 students per teacher), meaning more opportunities for individualized teaching and care. The district faces challenges, such as aging buildings, limited physical space, and discouraging long-term enrollment trends. Additionally, Cape Cod’s high cost of living and housing makes it harder for the district to recruit and maintain teachers, administrators, and other staff. According to the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS), as of 2023, Barnstable students’ performance is “partially meeting expectations”. West Barnstable is home to Cape Cod Community College, which offers associate degree programs. The Cape Cod Community College allows students to plan their curriculum to easily transfer to a different college or university for higher education while gaining credits here on Cape Cod. Additionally, Cape Cod Regional Technical High School (in nearby Harwich) provides training in different trades, such as plumbing, carpentry, auto and marine mechanics, graphic design, printing and culinary arts. These and other resources help individuals enhance technical skills, achieve career goals, and meet the needs of the ever-changing regional economy. Community Centers The Barnstable Adult Community Center (BACC) and the Hyannis Youth Community Center (HYCC) continue to serve as focal points for many community recreation programs and services. Barnstable is an Age & Dementia Friendly Community. An Age & Dementia Friendly Community is a place that actively supports the well-being of its older residents and those living with dementia by creating inclusive and acces- sible environments. As the Town evolves and its residents' age, planning efforts have grown to incorporate age and dementia friendly features that promote quality of life, inclusivity and accessibility. The Barnstable Adult Community Center Master Plan project is currently analyzing available development and recreational 234Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities opportunities on the property around the BACC. Built in 2009, the Hyannis Youth and Community Center offers a year-round indoor sports complex with two ice rinks, a multi-sport gymnasium, and a walking track. This property has the opportunity for master planning and expansion of recreational amenities. There is also an opportunity to replace the now-demol- ished Osterville Recreation Building with a new, modern recreation center. Recreational Resources The highlight of Barnstable’s recreational infrastructure is its beaches. Beach and/or bathhouse improvement needs have been identified at Hamblin Pond, Joshua’s Pond, Dowses, Sea Street, Covell’s, Loops, and Kalmus. An evaluation should be conducted to determine if bathhouses should be improved or replaced. Opportunities for enhancement of the Veteran’s Park Beach and Hathaway’s Pond with additional recreational amenities (splash pad, playground equipment) also exist. The JFK Memorial on Ocean Street is also in great need of renovation. There have been recent efforts to provide safe, accessible playground facilities in all of the villages, supported by the Community Preservation Committee. Recent accomplish- ments include improvements to Luke’s Love Playground in West Barnstable, Barnstable Hollow in Barnstable Village and improvements to playgrounds in Centerville and Osterville are underway. Recreational access to the water is a consistently high priority when residents are surveyed through the Open Space and Recreation Planning process. Boat ramps and marinas, including Gary Brown, Wequaquet, and Zion Heritage Museum. Town of Barnstable Communications 235Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities Prince Cove, have annually reoccurring issues with overcrowding and lack of trailer parking. Scudder Lane and Bay Street experience parking issues during shellfish season. Opportunities to enhance public waterfront access should continuously be sought out, with plans to track, and quickly act upon where possible. The Town owns and operates two public golf courses. The maintenance of these courses are funded through an enterprise account and the Town should continue to evaluate capital needs, revenues, and opportunities for the future for these properties. Historic Buildings Over time, the Town has acquired a number of historic buildings and associated properties to secure their preservation. Some of these buildings come with deferred maintenance issues, and others should be maintained in accordance with historic standards. Some buildings, like Town Hall, host town offices, and others, like Burgess House and the Zion Union Heritage Church, serve civic functions. Additional buildings including the Hyannis Armory, West Barnstable Railroad Depot, and Old Jail have been identified for revitalization and restoration efforts. Strategies should be put in place for continuing to prioritize the needs of these historic structures over time. Maps Mapping is an important tool for visualizing policies. The maps below can help the community see where town services and facilities exist today. Please see the Existing Conditions Report (page 22) for a fuller range of maps. 236Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities Map 8 .1 . Town Facilities Nantucket Sound Cape Cod Bay Barnstable Harbor Lewis Bay Popponesset Bay Cotuit Bay Lake Wequaquet West Bay North Bay Mystic Lake East Bay Middle Pond Hamblin Pond Shallow PondBearsePond LongPond Long Pond Lovell's Pond ShubaelPond Seapuit River Crocker Pond Mill Pond Neck Pond C en terville R iverScudderBay Garrett's Pond HyannisInnerHarbor PinquicksetCove Hallets Mill Pond Micah'sPond Stewart's Creek Joshua'sPondDamPond MaryDunnPond ParkerPond LittlePond RushyMarshPond CrystalLake Hathaway'sPond North LamsonPond RoundPond LumbertPond Pi ra te s Cov e BogPond LongPond EaglePond HinckleyPond ColemanPond IshemPond MillPond Patty'sPond MillPond IsraelPond WestPond FlowingPond Hathaway'sPond South Sam'sPond Lake Elizabeth LewisPond NorthPond Aunt Betty'sPond FlintrockPond Sandy Hill Pond Ben'sPond Spruce Pond UpperGate Pond Phinney'sBay RedLilyPond Lewis Pond Dunn'sPond Fresh HolePond WeathervanePond FlaxPond FreshPond SchoolhousePond Shallow Pond No BottomPond Coomb'sPond Duck Pond CampgroundPond No Bottom Pond Naomi Pond CrookedPond LilyPond FreshHolePond DuckPond Hall's CreekNorthPond GooseberryCove Snow sC r eek M illCreekMaraspin C re ek Fawcett'sPond Simmon'sPondCentervilleRiver B umpsRiver FullerMillPondEel Riv erPrinceC o v e Sant ui t RiverSantuitRiver ShoestringBay MarstonsMillsRiverM arstons MillsRiver Snow'sCove Nantucket Sound Tim'sCove TheNarrow sWarren'sCove Centerville Harbor Hyannis Harbor Melody Pond Middle Pond ! !! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! Town of Sandwich Town of Mashpee Map Legend ÿN E S W !Town Facilities (Staff Buildings & Community Centers) !Public Schools !Wastewater Infrastructure !Water Facility Z Airports Recreation Facilities (Parks, Fields, Courts & Beaches) Roads Railroad Tracks Town Boundary Water Bodies LCP_town_facilities.mxd 2-24-25 Town of Barnstable Massachusetts Town Facilities MapTown Facilities 237Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities GOAL #1 Provide well-maintained public facilities and services that serve the current and future social, economic, cultural, safety, traffic, and communication needs of the community; that are equitably distrib- uted; and are provided with minimal environmental impact. Actions A. The Town will support and encourage the joint planning, siting, develop- ment and use of public facilities and services through interdepartmental coordination and in collaboration with community organizations in areas of mutual concern and benefit in order to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize impacts on the environment such as conducting a needs assessment for ongoing operations for the Hyannis Youth and Community Center. B. Monitor and benchmark services and infrastructure necessary to support development and redevelopment without decreasing levels of service adopted by this plan to ensure there will be adequate personnel levels consistent with population and demographic needs. C. Provide inter-generational spaces and programing to diminish feelings of isolation. D. Strengthen social interaction and neighborhood engagement across the community for all ages. GOAL #2 Provide high quality public safety services for the residents of Barnstable through cost effective maintenance and upgrades of facili- ties and equipment. Actions A. Develop mechanism to calculate public safety services impact when devel- opment is proposed. B. Continue to implement goals defined within the Comprehensive Athletic Fields and Courts Study and the Town of Barnstable ADA Self Evaluation and Transition Plan. Facilities Goals & Actions 238Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities GOAL #3 Continue existing operations at the Cape Cod Gateway Airport and better integrate the Airport within the regional transportation network. Actions A. Actively explore integration of multi-modal transportation services with airport services through the development of a fixed-route microtransit program to deliver people to and from the Airport and Downtown Hyannis. B. Implement goals established within the Airport Master Plan. GOAL #4 Provide educational facilities to meet the present and future needs of Barnstable residents. Actions A. Identify and secure or retain land for future school facility expansion and/or redevelopment. B. Continue to implement goals defined within the Barnstable Public Schools Facilities Condition Assessment. C. Complete feasibility study to examine the possibility of creating workforce housing on public properties. D. Ensure that future buildout projections and residential development proposals are communicated to the affected public school district in a timely manner so they can plan effectively for future needs. GOAL #5 The Town will pursue the goals defined within the Recreation Commission’s Recreation Facility Tour Evaluation. Actions A. Review priorities defined within the Facility Tour Evaluation and confirm implementation. 239Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities GOAL #6 Expand recreational opportunities across Town for residents of all ages and abilities. In particular, coordinate recreational opportunities and activities accessible to people who are visually impaired and incorpo- rate ADA accessibility. Actions A. Explore opportunities for trails, playgrounds (equip with shade structures, water features, and interactive board games), pickleball and basketball courts, and outdoor fitness stations. B. Explore opportunities for recreational activities including community gardens and farmers markets. Marstons Mills Pickleball Courts. Town of Barnstable Communications 240Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Facilities CHAPTER 9Economic Development Vision Statement »Promote a diverse economy that supports living wages and local businesses and restores, enhances and protects the natural environment. »Commit to providing affordable and attainable year-round housing options. 241 CHAPTER XChapter Title Downtown Hyannis. Alora Lanzillotta 242Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development Why Economic Development Matters The Town of Barnstable serves as the Cape Cod region's center for commerce, transportation, and education, earning its reputation as the “hub of the Cape”. Boasting essential infrastructure such as the regional airport, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority’s Regional Transportation Center, and two ferry terminals, Barnstable acts as the gateway to all of Cape Cod and the neighboring islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. Beyond its pivotal transportation role, Barnstable hosts numerous regional resources, including the county government seat, Cape Cod Community College, the largest enclosed mall and industrial park in the region, Cape Cod Hospital, and bustling commercial harbors. Barnstable sustains a strong and diverse economy year-round relative to the other communities in Barnstable County, with over half of its workforce residing within its borders and a notably low unemployment rate of 4.0 percent in 2023, outperforming the state average. Additionally, Barnstable exhibits a significant percentage of self-employed residents (15.1%), reflecting a thriving entrepreneurial spirit within the community. Despite these strengths, challenges persist, particularly in aligning local job opportunities with resident employment preferences, with transportation and construction industries showing notable mismatches. Through strategic economic development initiatives, Barnstable aims to leverage its unique position and resources to foster continued growth and prosperity for its residents and businesses alike. Please see the Local Economy section (page 110) under Chapter 3: Community Systems of the Existing Conditions Report for information on existing local economy, trends, and the Town’s current economic development tools and policies. Economic Development Actions Since 2010 Since the last update of the Local Comprehensive Plan in 2010, the Town has actively worked to address the goals and actions included in the plan. Below is a high-level overview of some notable implementation achievements related to economic development. Projects & Initiatives The 2010 LCP called for many strategies and actions for the Town to pursue related to Economic Development. Below is a summary of some of these key achievements. Growth Incentive Zone and Downtown Hyannis Zoning The Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) was established in 2006 and redesignated in 2018. The purpose of a GIZ is to direct growth and redevelopment to an area of Barnstable with existing development, and to encourage a concentrated mix of residential and commercial uses within Hyannis while ensuring that all growth is properly served by adequate public infrastructure. To achieve this goal, the Town has and continues to implement planning initiatives, make planned infrastructure investments, and enact regulatory changes to Economic Development9 243Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development support continued public and private investment in the Downtown Hyannis GIZ. The economic development incentive provided by the GIZ is exemption of Cape Cod Commission review for developments in designated categories. Downtown Hyannis zoning revisions were approved in 2023, focusing on promoting residential and mixed-use development that responds to local context through size, form, placement, and design considerations. The new zoning allows for multi-family developments by-right, which streamlines the permitting process and allows for predictable outcomes. The reduction of minimum parking requirements, coupled with the increased density subject to building form and placement, was implemented to promote walkability, affordability, and sustainability in the downtown area. The result of these revisions has been new interest from developers to invest and redevelop underutilized properties for residential and mixed-use projects. Local Business Support A permit coordinator position was established in 2019 to facilitate the permitting process for small businesses and provide a single point Downtown Hyannis. Town of Barnstable Communications 244Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development of contact for businesses with questions or concerns about the regulatory process. A Business Barnstable website was created in 2022 and provides resources to local business owners and potential new business owners. In 2022, Barnstable was selected by MassDevelopment to become a full-time Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) District, a program for Gateway Cities designed to accelerate economic growth within focused districts. The program works with cross-sector partnerships to engage community members in actionable planning, implement local economic development initiatives, and spur further public and private investment. Barnstable’s TDI District is in Downtown Hyannis and through this program Barnstable receives technical assistance for economic development expertise, as well as access to grants to support local development and investment in the Downtown. Utilizing funding from this program the Town partnered with the Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District in 2023 and 2024 to imple- ment a Downtown Hyannis Façade Improvement Grant Program for small businesses. Recreation The Community Services Department actively supports and maintains various community facil- ities and amenities, such as the Hyannis Youth Community Center (HYCC), golf courses, and beaches. Ongoing efforts include improvements and updates to these facilities and programs to ensure accessibility, a welcoming atmosphere, and proper maintenance. Collaborating closely with the Department of Public Works (DPW), the Town has implemented various field upgrades throughout the villages and introduced new recreational amenities, including the pickleball complex in Marstons Mills. Currently, efforts are underway to redesign the Centerville and Osterville Playgrounds in collaboration with DPW. Additionally, there are plans to seek CIP funds to redesign the HYCC grounds, aiming to expand recreational opportunities, including an updated skate park, outdoor fitness court, and a splash pad. At the Town golf courses, an environmentally sustainable land management plan has been implemented to reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides. Recent improvements have also been made to the Barnstable Adult Community Center. Cultural Economy The Town of Barnstable recognizes and supports the role of arts and culture in making its seven villages vibrant and economically prosperous communities. The Town’s arts & culture program has grown to include two state designated cultural districts, a year-round arts campus with community art space, 12 artist shanties, multiple partnerships with cultural nonprofits and creative economy businesses, and marketing efforts to promote the cultural gems in the seven villages. Barnstable supports the cultural economy by prioritizing ongoing efforts in small business and entrepreneurship, particularly through the TDI partnership. Additionally, the Town is working with the Cape Cod Chamber Downtown Hyannis Facade Improvement Program. Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District 245Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development to advance initiatives to support the “blue economy.” Notably, the Town has two cultural districts: the Hyannis HyArts Cultural District and the Barnstable Village Cultural District. The Arts & Culture program supports two artists in residence and the Town Hall artist spotlight program, maintains the ongoing arts shanty program, and organizes programming for public spaces. The Town also continues to support museums through Cultural District partnerships. The Town also supports special events, which are an economic driver as well as a community-building effort for residents. The Town produces an annual Fourth of July event, featuring the Cape Cod Symphony at Aselton Park, arranges and manages a Labor Day fireworks event, and supports events with other community partners including Unity Day and Hyannis Open Streets. Issues & Opportunities Barnstable, as the regional economic center and largest town on Cape Cod, grapples with familiar economic development challenges shared by other communities in the region, including seasonal fluctuations, the costs of improving, maintaining, and expanding public infrastruc- ture, traffic congestion, housing affordability, and limited job opportunities. However, amidst these challenges, the Town possesses a wealth of assets, such as hosting the region’s hospital, county government, educational institutions, major transportation hubs, and natural and cultural attractions, providing a strong founda- tion for economic growth. However, achieving economic resiliency and sustainability requires a delicate balance between fostering growth and addressing pressing issues like housing afford- ability, natural resource protection, and infra- structure constraints. Moreover, Barnstable's concentrated development, coupled with its status as a regional economic hub, presents opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and lead in fostering a resilient and sustainable economy. By leveraging its strengths and addressing its challenges, Barnstable can continue to thrive as a vital year-round economic and cultural center within the Cape Cod region. The issues, opportunities, goals, and strategies outlined below are informed by feedback gathered by the Town through multiple public meetings, surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Regional Economic Center and Industrial Areas Both the Regional Economic Center and indus- trial areas serve important roles in the local and regional economies containing many commercial and industrial businesses that provide year- round employment opportunities. Fourth of July. Town of Barnstable Communications 246Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development The Town recently collaborated with the Cape Cod Commission to raise Development of Regional Impact (DRI) thresholds in both areas, aiming to foster economic development in established year-round commercial centers. By encouraging planned private investment in mapped Regional Economic Centers and Industrial Service and Trade Areas, the Town anticipates increased development potential that is both cost-effective and predictable for businesses. While sufficient regulatory and infrastructure measures are in place to manage potential impacts on local and regional systems, there are opportunities to further amend regulations to address traffic, economic devel- opment, and community character concerns. Particularly in the Regional Economic center, which is characterized by a mix of commercial and light-industrial uses, there's potential for interspersed residential development, offering a larger customer base for local businesses and more connected and livable neighborhoods. Maintaining commercial and industrial uses remain pivotal in the Industrial & Service Trade Area for local and regional economic stability. Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) The Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) presents both challenges and opportunities for local devel- opment. While the GIZ aims to direct growth towards areas with established infrastructure and away from sensitive resource zones, issues such as balancing residential and commercial uses, ensuring adequate infrastructure support, and maintaining strong design standards arise. The designation also offers opportunities for enhancing overall design and functionality through infill and redevelopment. By simplifying the permit process and empowering local decision-making the GIZ encourages economic growth and makes development opportunities more attractive. Ongoing assessment and refinement of GIZ standards are essential to address these issues effectively and capitalize on opportunities for sustainable development that meet the evolving needs of the community. Blue Economy The “Blue Economy” is defined as the sustainable use of water resources for economic growth, improved quality of life, and the creation/retention of jobs while preserving the health of ecosystems. The blue economy is experiencing steady growth across Cape Cod, representing significant economic opportunities for Cape communities. Across the Cape, tourism and recreation and research, education, advocacy, and support services comprise a Barnstable’s long-standing relationship with the sea and natural resource-based industries means balancing economic growth with protection of these resources is crucial. The seasonal and tourism-driven economy is subject to the same vulnerabilities from climate change and extreme events as Barnstable’s land, ecosystems, and infrastructure. Commercial, agricultural, industrial, and multi-use properties that contribute to Barnstable’s economy lie within coastal areas vulnerable to sea level rise, SLOSH (Sea, Lake, and Overland Surges from Hurricanes), and flooding. 247Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development FACT SHEET FOOTNOTES 1 Massachusetts Department of Economic Research (DER) accessed December 2024 2 Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries Port by Port Profiles and Analysis of the Massachusetts Commercial Fishery April 2021 3 Town of Barnstable Planning & Development Department December 2024 4 U.S. Census Bureau accessed June 2024; Cape Cod Commission Housing Profiles: Barnstable January 2024 Economic Development Fact Sheet The Hyannis Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) District established by MassDevelopment in 2022 has resulted in over half a million dollars in new investment in Downtown Hyannis.3 The median income in the Town is much lower than the income needed to buy a home.4 Barnstable median household income $94,387 income needed to affordably purchase a median price single family home in the town $199,000 The Town of Barnstable ranks 4th in the state as a top commercial fishing port measured by catch value.2 4th The Town’s top three employers are: Cape Cod Healthcare Cape Cod Community College The Town of Barnstable 1 248Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development significant portion of the sector. However, there are opportunities for growth in sectors like marine technology and renewable living resources, particularly in fostering year-round jobs, businesses, and organizations. Initiatives such as the Hyannis Harbor Master Plan are aimed at capitalizing on this growth potential in Barnstable. Additionally, transi- tioning to renewable energy and addressing water and climate challenges not only present economic opportunities but also contribute to the sustainability of ocean resources and ecosystem health. To maximize the benefits of the blue economy, Barnstable should continue to support existing blue economy businesses while attracting new ventures that align with key sectors such as maritime transportation, fisheries and aquaculture, tourism and recreation, and renewable energy. This support should extend to initiatives aimed at promoting educational programs that foster knowledge and appreciation for the blue economy and maritime traditions. Wastewater management projects, coastal resilience initiatives, and climate change adaptation planning represent ways in which the Town has already invested in the Blue Economy. Furthermore, sustaining the growth and productivity of coastal communities necessitates preserving public access to working waterfronts and harbors. This involves encouraging activities like fish markets and waterfront restaurants, which enhance economic vibrancy. By preserving maritime areas from overdevelopment and actively supporting existing water-based and maritime uses, Barnstable can create econom- ically vibrant and resilient waterfronts that contribute to the overall prosperity of the region. Hyannis Harbor. Town of Barnstable Communications 249Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development Housing Supply/Lack of Affordability The availability of housing which is affordable in Barnstable is intricately linked to the health of the local economy and is closely tied to other economic issues outlined in this section. Barnstable’s limited housing supply (particularly the lack of rental options) and lack of afford- ability has contributed to labor supply issues in both the year-round and seasonal economies. Across the country, the shortage of housing which is affordable costs the American economy about $2 trillion a year in lower wages and productivity. Without affordable housing, fami- lies have constrained opportunities to increase earnings, causing slower economic growth. This scarcity of housing which is affordable presents a significant challenge for employers, who struggle to attract and retain workers. This scarcity of housing which is affordable presents a significant challenge for employers, who struggle to attract and retain workers. The average household income in Barnstable as of 2022 is $94,387, which is less than half the amount of income needed ($199,000) to purchase the median single-family home in town without being housing cost-burdened. The seasonal nature of Cape Cod's economy compounds these issues, as there is insufficient housing to accommodate seasonal workers. The town can alleviate housing and labor supply issues while also fostering a more resilient and inclusive community. Additionally, attracting more year- round residents is crucial to support essential services like grocery stores, further emphasizing the need for affordable housing solutions. Transportation and Infrastructure Accessible and affordable transportation systems are vital for economic vitality and community resilience. While Barnstable offers residents access to various transit options like buses, ferries, rail, and planes, auto-centric travel remains predominant, and many areas of Town are not accessible via public transportation (namely West Barnstable, Barnstable, and Cotuit). Efforts to promote multi-modal transportation are underway, particularly in Downtown Hyannis. Similarly, adequate and existing infrastructure plays a critical role in economic growth and development decisions. Efforts are underway to review existing conditions and regulations, particularly in the Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ), to identify infrastructure needs and develop plans for improvement. Furthermore, the Town aims to concentrate development where infra- structure can be efficiently provided, ensuring access to transportation and services for all residents. Adequate broadband infrastructure is increasingly seen as essential for attracting remote workers and supporting economic activity, and as such the Town utilized CDBG funds in 2023 to expand broadband access for businesses and residents in downtown Hyannis. The Town is actively improving infrastructure to foster business growth and ensure residents’ access to goods and services. Collaboration opportunities are emerging, such as with the Cape Cod Gateway Airport, which seeks to expand services and build stronger relationships with the community. Challenges include limited bus routes, infrastructure maintenance issues in Hyannis, and the need for improved pedestrian and cyclist connectivity across the Town. Addressing these issues while leveraging existing transportation assets could enhance overall connectivity and community well-being. Commercial Nodes Barnstable's commercial areas and shopping centers exhibit a range of performance levels, 250Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development with a number of larger retail spaces and key main street storefronts currently vacant. Opportunities for revitalization exist, as has been recently demonstrated through the redevelop- ment of Capetown Plaza and reinvestment in the Cape Cod Mall area. Introducing multi-family uses in these areas could address the need for housing diversity but also create a larger local customer base for businesses. The Town has the opportunity to explore innovative solutions, such as commercial land trusts and retail condos to activate vacant properties and revitalize commercial areas, thereby fostering economic vibrancy and community engagement. Cape Cod Community College The presence of Cape Cod Community College in Barnstable presents a valuable yet potentially underutilized asset for workforce and economic development. Recognizing specific opportu- nities, such as the dental hygiene and nursing programs, as well as the introduction of a new blue economy associate degree, showcases the college's commitment to addressing industry needs. However, high housing costs pose a challenge, hindering students from remaining on the Cape after graduation. To leverage the college's full potential, Barnstable should persist in exploring opportunities for partnership and workforce development initiatives, fostering collaboration that benefits both the community and the college. Diverse Year-Round Economy The seasonal fluctuations of Cape Cod’s economy poses significant challenges for local communities, characterized by dependence on tourism and retail trade, resulting in lower wages and higher unemployment rates during the off-season. Economic downturns exacerbate these challenges, as less money is spent in the tourism sector during times of recession. Despite this, Barnstable, as the regional economic center, maintains a more year-round economy compared to other Cape towns, actively working to attract visitors during shoulder and off-seasons. Initiatives such as tourism mini grants to promote events across the seven villages aim to draw visi- tors and mitigate the seasonality of the economy. Additionally, efforts by the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce to establish a tourism destination marketing district hold promise for designated tourism promotion funds, offering opportunities to bolster the local economy beyond the traditional peak tourist periods. Addressing the persistent dependence on tourism and the need for year-round visitors and residency remain crucial for long-term economic sustainability. While Hyannis serves as the primary commercial hub, other villages rely on their historic New England charm and cater to the seasonal community. In addressing the challenges of the seasonal economy, Barnstable faces specific hurdles such as the difficulty in retaining tradesmen due to housing affordability issues and a lack of apprenticeship opportunities. While educational institutions exist, the missing link lies in providing affordable housing for workers in training. Addressing this gap may involve engaging with organizations or groups to find solutions. Moreover, the Town faces challenges in retaining When communities are more prosperous, people have more time and resources to dedicate to their health and wellness. A strong economy leads to increased income and time to spend on health, wellness, and education, leading to an improved quality of life. 251Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development economic value, including healthcare services. Many residents travel off Cape for medical needs despite the existing healthcare industry providing high-wage jobs. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, such as Cape Cod Hospital, could help retain economic value within the community. Another opportunity to bolster the year-round economy might be the potential establishment of a sports facility in the Town that would draw visitors and provide employment opportunities. Overall, while the seasonal economy remains a core aspect of Cape Cod's identity, diversifying economic activities is crucial for fostering resilience and prosperity year-round. Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District Downtown Hyannis Downtown Hyannis stands as the primary economic hub of Barnstable, acknowledged by residents as both a strength and a focal area for improvement. Challenges such as worn-out facades, inadequate sidewalk and streetscape maintenance, and a lack of connectivity to other parts of town hinder its potential as a vibrant urban center. However, in collaboration with local partners including the Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District (BID) which is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1999 to revitalize downtown ongoing efforts, including the Downtown Hyannis Façade Grant Program, have already made strides in revital- izing the area. The BID’s mission is to promote the community and economic development of the Hyannis Main Street district as a desirable place to live, work, invest, and visit. The implementation of new zoning regulations along Main Street is anticipated to be transformative, fostering diversity and attracting real services to create a more vibrant and walkable community. Efforts to promote placemaking in Downtown Hyannis is essential for strengthening connec- tions between people and places, reducing auto- mobile dependency, and fostering a safe, livable, and compact urban environment. Enhancements such as pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, the promotion of cultural events, and the provision of everyday amenities like grocery stores and arts centers are vital for attracting young residents and creating a vibrant neighborhood. Continued investments in infrastructure and transportation, including improved sidewalks and safer intersections, are necessary to create a more walkable and active community. Moreover, initiatives like Barnstable’s TDI District, which has already invested significant funds in Downtown Hyannis, underscore the town's commitment to revitalizing this vital economic and cultural center. Continued support for existing programs and the exploration of innovative solutions will be instrumental in addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities presented by Downtown Hyannis. Downtown Hyannis. Town of Barnstable Communications 252Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development GOAL #1 Support a market-driven, place-based approach that builds on our existing assets, a tradition of locally-owned businesses, and encourages economic balance, diversity, and sustainability. Actions A. Evaluate Tax Increment Financing (TIF) guidelines and policies to ensure that the town’s program incentivizes investment in industries that are desired by the community and provide well-paying jobs with benefits. GOAL #2 Revise and simplify land use regulations including zoning to foster economic development. Actions A. Support reauthorization of the Downtown Hyannis Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) and consider readjusting the boundary of the GIZ, as applicable. B. Conduct the Independence Village Master Plan as shown as on the Future Land Use Map to analyze existing zoning and land uses to develop recom- mendations to modernize zoning. GOAL #3 Retain and strengthen local business in the Town of Barnstable. Actions A. Explore ways to continue and expand the Downtown Hyannis Façade grant program which incentives locally owned businesses to reinvest profits into the community. B. Continue to develop resources for economic development and small businesses by publishing timely and relevant information on funding/grant opportunities, technical assistance possibilities, and relevant community data through on-going administration of the Business Barnstable website and email Newsletter. C. Seek to develop additional public facing data tools that include relevant economic indicators and information. Economic Development Goals & Actions 253Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development GOAL #4 Coordinate infrastructure with new growth. Actions A. Continue to participate in and implement solutions from the Hyannis Access Study and continue to coordinate the Downtown Hyannis Great Streets project to improve traffic flow. B. Develop projects and identify possible grant funding to build and maintain infrastructure needs. C. Encourage the development of grid resilience by investing in redundant power sources at municipal buildings. D. Seek out and support upgrades to telecommunication infrastructure for public and commercial broadband access within Barnstable at the Town’s parks and beaches. GOAL #5 Emphasize educational efforts that serve as economic drivers to expand collective intellectual capital and support an emerging workforce. Actions A. Support development of educational curricula that connects to existing or desirable employment opportunities and career advancement such as renewable energy, medical services and sciences and technologies focusing on coastal, marine, and environmental sectors through collaboration with educational partners (BHS, CCCC, Cape Tech) to develop apprenticeship programs that respond to local workforce needs. 254Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development GOAL #6 Support the maintenance and development of recreational activities for residents and visitors. Fund and implement findings and actions from the state approved Open Space and Recreation Plan. Actions A. Increase availability of public access to the water by seeking out opportunities to purchase land that could provide new public ways to the water. Enhance public beaches and support water-dependent activities with amenities. B. Maintain, improve, and promote high quality public recreational facilities including beaches, trails, fields, and parks including completion of the Rail Trail connection project from Yarmouth to Sandwich and completion of the Osterville and Centerville Playground projects. Increase maintenance and add amenities that respond to emerging recreational trends. C. Support and maintain town-owned golf courses to attract visitors and to continue to serve as an attractive amenity for year-round residents. D. Continue to support the Hyannis Youth and Community Center (HYCC), including the ability to host events that bring visitors into town and provide a year-round recreational gathering place for all ages through completion of the HYCC Master Plan to examine the facility and recommend changes to better reflect future recreational needs. E. Promote the Hyannis Harbor Hawks and Cotuit Kettleers, and support the presence of the Cape Cod Baseball League in Barnstable including exploring opportunities to site the Cape Cod Baseball League Hall of Fame in Barnstable. F. Attract and support the development of an indoor recreational facility through completion of a feasibility study for indoor recreation facility to obtain project costs and identify possible locations. G. Construct a regulation 440 yard (~402 meters) outdoor running track which will be accessible to the public seven days per week from sunrise until darkness. 255Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development GOAL #7 Support and promote arts and culture in the Town of Barnstable to make its seven villages vibrant and economically prosperous communities for the well-being of its residents. Encourage continued development of the creative economy to increase cultural tourism, capture sector dollars and to position the Town as a year-round cultural destination. Actions A. Collaborate with cultural partners to expand programming, marketing and outreach to generate year-round interest and increase visitation throughout the town’s seven villages including coordinating expansion of the Town’s Tourism Mini-Grants. B. Attract, encourage and promote new and existing cultural entities to develop and expand programming to generate year-round interest and increase visitation throughout the town’s seven villages. C. Collaborate with other town departments to incorporate the arts to creatively coordinate town services, design shared spaces, engage citizens in town government and improve residents’ quality of life. Artist Shanties at Harbor Overlook. Town of Barnstable Communications 256Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development GOAL #8 Strengthen and enhance our visitor-based economy to make Barnstable a year-round destination. Actions A. Enhance and expand the Walkway to the Sea to encompass more of the harbor front, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, JFK Memorial, Veteran’s Beach, the end of Ocean Street and Kalmus Park. B. Identify locations for creative shared parking solutions for the Cape Cod Gateway Airport, Cape Cod Regional Transportation Center, the Cape Cod Hospital and Hyannis Harbor. C. Support the continued development of eco-tourism, tourism that explores, experiences, and observes nature by marketing and improving the Town’s trail system and ways to water. D. Allocate a portion of the current room occupancy tax revenue to visitor marketing and promotion to increase the Town’s Tourism Fund. E. Work with appropriate public and private transportation entities to ensure provision of year-round, reliable transportation and trolley service in support of visitors and the workforce. GOAL #9 Support the healthcare sector by fostering economic growth, improving access to healthcare, and enhancing the overall well-being of the community. Actions A. Explore and promote incentives such as the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to encourage healthcare providers to locate within Barnstable. B. Support the expansion and modernization of healthcare infrastructure and work with Cape Cod Hospital to address their workforce housing challenges. 257Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development GOAL #10 Cultivate innovative Blue Economy initiatives that stimulate economic growth, promote environmental sustainability, and enhance the quality of life for our residents. Actions A. Identify skill gaps in marine industries for workforce development and conversion from jobs to careers by working with educational community and workforce development organizations including the Brazilian Resource Center—Health Ministry to help them to develop curriculum in order to expand workforce opportunities. B. Support the development, growth, and retention of innovative technologies that can be shared and exported by utilizing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to attract new industries in bio-tech and clean water to locate in Barnstable. C. Continue to seek ways to support the commercial finfish and shellfish industry, including investment in relevant waterfront facilities. This should include conducting a feasibility study to examine locating a new commercial finfish and shellfish offload facility in Town. 258Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Economic Development CHAPTER 10Culture, Heritage, & Design Vision Statement »Preserve, enhance and celebrate the unique historic character and sense of place of the town and each of its seven villages. »Provide access to high-quality public education, healthcare, human and social services, and a healthy environment. »Foster an inclusive community that values diversity. »Increase transparency of the local government so that it can make effective decisions ground in citizen input and implement necessary changes efficiently. »Strengthen community connections and communication town-wide and seek opportunities for collaboration with neighboring towns. »Recognize and build upon previous efforts by citizens and the Town to make Barnstable the best that it can be. 259 CHAPTER XChapter Title Artist Shanties. Town of Barnstable Communications 260Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design Why Culture, Heritage & Design Matter Barnstable’s historic villages, scenic landscapes and rich quality of life continue to attract summer visitors, year-round residents, and the businesses that serve them. The culture of the town revolves around its seven villages, each of which expresses a unique sense of place. For the most part, the beauty and visual character of the villages and the surrounding landscape emerged through centuries of people making a life based on the resources of land and sea. This produced a visual character that is quintessential Cape Cod, attracting summer visitors and more and more permanent residents. Agriculture, fishing, and other resource-based industries have declined, and in recent decades both the landscape and economy of Barnstable were impacted by more suburban models of growth and development. Yet both land and sea continue to attract residents and visitors, and a growing community of artists and artisans continues to draw on the land and sea for inspiration. By preserving the historic structures, landscapes, and village centers that represent the rich heritage of past generations, the town can preserve what remains of previous cultures. We can design new places to live, work, shop and play that reflect this legacy, while allowing for residents and business owners to respond to this setting in new and creative ways. This is the foundation for creating a continually renewed sense of place that values both history and contemporary arts and culture. Barnstable’s historic villages embody the cultural heritage of past generations. Village density, building form, and architectural character embody this heritage. What will the cultural heritage of the future look like? Design of revitalized commercial districts and residential neighborhoods needs to incorporate the lessons of historic architecture and development patterns to avoid evolving into “Anywhere, USA.”. But a strong sense of place is not created just by well-designed buildings and neighborhoods—it emerges from ongoing life and culture, the resi- dents and businesses and activities taking place within them. By supporting people and activities that are rooted in the land, water, ecology, and authentic culture of the Cape, Barnstable can ensure that the cultural heritage of tomorrow is as vibrant as that left by previous generations. Please see the Cultural Heritage section (page 94) found in Chapter 3: Community Systems of the Existing Conditions Report for more detailed information on culture, heritage and design. Culture, Heritage, & Design10 Arts and culture create community connections and strengthen mental health. Social connection is a basic human need. 261Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design Culture, Heritage & Design Actions Since 2010 In the years since completion of the 2010 Comprehensive Plan, Barnstable has worked to identify and preserve historic structures and other heritage resources. The Town is starting to address preservation of the historic character of larger areas through improved regulation of design. Economic development efforts include a focus on supporting local culture and the arts as the foundation for sustainable growth. Projects & Initiatives The 2010 LCP called for many strategies and actions for the Town to pursue related to Culture, Heritage & Design. Below is a summary of some of these key achievements. Historic Inventory (2020) The Barnstable Prioritized Survey Project surveyed historic resources for the Barnstable Historical Commission with an objective of providing insight for assessing the significance of buildings subject to demolition. As part of the 2010 Historic Preservation Plan prepa- ration, professional consultants conducted a Burgess House. Town of Barnstable Communications 262Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design windshield survey of the nearly 1,500 previously un-surveyed properties to provide a preliminary analysis on the significance of resources and the threat of new development occurring in partic- ular areas throughout Barnstable. The effort sought to document resources in villages that had not been professionally surveyed in several years. The result of the analysis was a prioritized list of 600 properties throughout the Town. Form B Building inventory forms were prepared for 80 primary buildings and several secondary buildings and structures. Valuable historic contexts were developed through the Form B narratives focusing on areas that had seen an increase in redevelopment and where resources were largely unrecorded, including Blish Point in Barnstable Village, Camp Opechee Road in Centerville, and Osterville/West Barnstable Road in Osterville. Demolition Delay The procedures established for the Barnstable Historical Commission defined by §112-3 were amended in 2013. In summary, the objective of the amendment included adding an admin- istrative procedure to streamline the process, bringing the regulatory timeframes into align- ment with other land-use permitting; adding an expiration date, and extending the period of Demolition Delay from six to eighteen months. The Historic Commission’s intent for lengthening the time of demolition-delay was to engage owners of historic resources in the process of preserving those buildings and structures. Downtown Hyannis Unified Design Regulations and Guidelines The Downtown Hyannis Unified Design Regulations and Guidelines were developed and enacted by the Barnstable Planning Board and the Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District Commission in 2023 and 2024. The Unified Guidelines provide clear guidelines for applicants and property owners with mandatory regulations and recommended guidelines for site plan and building design, including site amenities and placemaking guidelines as well as landscape and signage design. The Unified Design Regulations and Guidelines define review applicability and process with an objective to foster and champion the historic and maritime character of downtown Hyannis with quality, character, and charm. Funding for Historic Preservation From 2006–2024 $13,865,873 in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds were awarded to 73 historic preservation projects. Grants from Mass Historic Commissions Preservation Projects Fund were received in support of work at the Unitarian Church, Olde Colonial Courthouse, US Custom House and Carriage House, and Barnstable Customs House.Olde Colonial Court House. Alora Lanzillotta 263Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design Cultural Districts The Town of Barnstable has two state designated cultural districts, Hyannis HyArts and Barnstable Village. In 2012, Hyannis was the first on Cape Cod to be named a state designated cultural district and the 6th in the state—there are now 52. Barnstable Village followed with state designation in 2014. Well before the official state designation, the town was underway transforming downtown Hyannis into a distinct arts destination and integrating arts into the fabric of the community. Expansion of HyArts Shanty Program The Town’s waterfront incubator program for Cape Cod artists continues with much success, a tremendous initiative to support the arts community and provide a vibrant backdrop for residents and visitors. Starting in May 2005 with seven shanties and 15 artists, the program has grown to include 12 shanties in two locations along the ‘Walkway to the Sea’ in Hyannis which connects Downtown Hyannis to the working waterfront. The program supports in excess of 85 Cape Cod artists each May through November. Cape Cod artists rotate throughout the season so every week there are new and returning artists. Over 100,000 visitors pass through each season and annually, and collective sales for the artists is at least $425,000. Artists can improve business, marketing and selling skills and move onward and upward to their own retail space or represented in other galleries or wholesale or online shops. Hyannis HyArts Campus and Cultural District The HyArts Campus developed by the Town at the corner of South and Pearl continues to be a focus of Arts Barnstable’s work to support arts and culture. It now includes artist live/work space at 46 and 50 Pearl Street and the Guyer Barn. The HyArts Campus is one anchor within the surrounding Cultural District, which includes the Hyannis Public Library, the Cultural Center of Cape Cod, the JFK Hyannis Museum, and the Cape Cod Maritime Museum. These institutions gather around open spaces that include the Village Green, Aselton Park, Bismore Park and McKeon Park. A network of pedestrian paths and sidewalks link everything together, including the Walkway to the Sea and the Kennedy Legacy Trail. ArtsBarnstable sponsors photo, story and gallery walks and other special events designed to attract visitors and engage locals. Issues & Opportunities The unique character of each of Barnstable’s seven villages emerged organically in a time before zoning bylaws and design consultants. Each village served a particular social and economic function, from harbor villages focused on fishing and shipping, to agricultural hamlets and summer resort communities. Rooted in its particular landscape setting, available resources, and economic role, each village developed a unique visual character and sense of place, defined and enriched by the historic period and culture that created it. HyArts Campus. Melissa Chartrand 264Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design Today these conditions have changed. For many decades, growth patterns and community character have been driven by residential subdivisions, automobile-oriented business districts and other functional demands of the suburban growth model. The creation of “Cape Cod Character” has become the province of designers and real estate agents. It no longer emerges organically from the Barnstable landscape. It must be overlaid intentionally on a development that continues to be driven by the suburban development paradigm. This process has been blunted by the diligent efforts of the Historic Commission and town and village historical societies, but suburban growth patterns continue to erode Barnstable’s visual character and sense of place, especially outside of the historic districts. Recognizing that pres- ervation of historic and cultural resources are fundamental to continued economic health and quality of life, there is an opportunity to change land use policies and development regulations to promote development and revitalization that enhances and celebrates cultural resources rather than further eroding them. The issues, opportunities, goals, and strategies outlined below are informed by feedback gathered by the Town through multiple public meetings, surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Protect Historic Resources When Land is Acquired for Open Space There is a need to inventory all cultural and heritage resources when land is to be preserved for open space to make sure that proper care is taken to preserve these resources. Some examples include the Charles Marston House, c.1821, which was demolished prior to land acquisition for open space on Mill Pond in Marstons Mills, as well as the Fuller Farm House, c.1887, demolished prior to construction of new educational barn on acquired open space on Rt. 149 in Marston’s Mills. Broadening Representation and Engagement in Historic Preservation To be relevant to more people, historic preservation and the stories told through the places Barnstable preserves must expand to include more perspectives. There is a need to interest younger generations in historic preservation efforts, as well as engage traditionally underrepresented communities found on Cape Cod, including women, Mashpee Wampanoag, African American and Cape Verdean communities. The Town is working diligently to find out what matters to these communities by listening to their personal experiences and providing a space to tell their stories. For younger generations Preservation needs to provide experiential opportunities that meet the needs of a demographic that gets most of its information and interaction over social Coast Guard Heritage Museum. Alora Lanzillotta 265Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design FACT SHEET FOOTNOTES 1 Town of Barnstable National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) Map Town of Barnstable; U.S. Census Bureau; MassGIS; and MassDOT 2 Town of Barnstable Arts Barnstable website https://artsbarnstable.com/destinations/hyarts-district/ 3 Town of Barnstable Arts & Culture Coordinator June 2024 4 Town of Barnstable Community Preservation Coordinator June 2024 5 DataCapeCod Protecting Our Past, Protecting Our Future accessed July 2024) https://datacapecod.org/pf/protecting-our-past-protecting-our-future/ Culture, Heritage, & Design Fact Sheet Between 2006 and 2024, the Town appropriated $13,865,873 in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds toward 73 historic preservation projects .4 Barnstable has 2 state designated Cultural Districts: HyArts Cultural District (established 2012) and Barnstable Village Cultural District (established 2014).2 Over 20% of Barnstable County's historic properties listed on the National Register of Historic Properties are located in Barnstable.1 A total of 182 historic buildings and structures (pre-1951) are located within the floodplain zones A or V.5 100,000 visitors that pass through the HyArts Artist Shanties each season. $425,000 annual collective sales for the artists at the shanties. $3,547,665.00 total collective sales for the artists at the shanties since 2005.3BARNSTABLE CO U NTYTown of Barnstable 266Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design media. This could include working with the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, Coast Guard Heritage Museum, The Blacksmith Shop and other insti- tutions to offer hands-on engagement and trade opportunities for teens, whether it be working through Scouts to offer Historic Preservation patches, or organizations such as AmeriCorps Cape Cod. Another opportunity is to include underrepresented voices into the protection of historic resources. For example, the inclusion of indigenous peoples’ perspectives in the conversation means respecting the many beliefs and concepts pertaining to land management, cultural practices, and storytelling. This can also mean encouraging and creating a space for these communities to sit on local boards and commissions. Broadening representation and engagement with more diverse groups will help to protect historical resources. Keep the Old Historic Preservation Playbook but Expand on It Preservation practice must adapt to changing demographics in order to be more relevant within today’s cultural conversation. According to the National Park Service, less than 10% of National Register nominations include the stories of underrepresented communities. One strategy could include broadening standard concepts for the National Register Criteria and how local commissions and consultants manage cultural resources as to recognize unique historic resources that perhaps don’t fit into the traditional categories. This could include making sure all of the survey, research, evaluation, and decision-making are inclusive and accessible. Materials should be available in the languages spoken in the community, and not over wrought with preservation specific language. Another example of expanding the playbook is working within the needs of the local economy, such as encouraging adaptive reuse of historic commercial buildings that will attract and engage younger generations through art, food, and entertainment. Another opportunity is to promote preservation through “living history” initiatives that involve young people and newcomers in boat building/restoration, fishing, farming, etc. Upcoming Challenges for Historic Preservation The Town should actively identify pressing historic preservation challenges and opportu- nities; these include the Rodney Baxter House (c.1850.289 South Street). Unique in Barnstable and rare in the nation, the house was “inspired by Orson S. Fowler’s contemporary publication ‘The Octagon House, A Home for All.’ An intact example of this rare style and is enhanced by retention of an unaltered octagonal carriage house.” (from inventory Form-B). Another challenge/opportunity is the need to look at documenting and preserving buildings that are becoming “historic” with the passage of time, such as mid-century modern houses. Designing Buildings for Future Preservation As development and redevelopment continue, there is a need to address the design of building “so that the buildings we build today will be defended by preservationists 75 years from now.” This can start by incorporating massing, shapes, styles, architectural detail, colors and materials from the historic built environment when designing new construction. There is an opportunity to build on the 2023 Downtown Hyannis Unified Design Regulations with a similar contextual design approach for other villages and areas across Barnstable. 267Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design Place-Based Planning and Visioning for Key Areas Barnstable’s historic districts are reasonably effective at preserving structures and limiting change in the villages. Hyannis has benefitted from a series of planning and visioning efforts, leading to changes in regulations and design standards that encourage growth—with controls to promote good design. Design standards for historic preservation should be considered for the other villages. The process of adopting the Unified Design Regulations for Hyannis highlighted the challenge of crafting design regulations that reflect historic precedents when the precedents themselves are not very unified. There is no single historic period or style along Main Street to serve as a general model. There is thus a need to further explore how historic traditions can best be incorporated into new buildings. This could include development of a more fine- ly-grained plan for the district, with the goal of creating a more consistent vision for individual blocks and street frontages, with an appropriate level of variation between them. Another opportunity for place-based visioning would include Barnstable’s principal commercial and industrial districts in the area of the Cape Cod Mall and the adjacent Rt.132 and Rt. 28 corridors. These districts serve an important economic role in the town and the region, but under current zoning they may have trouble adapting to changes in the retail economy. Many The Landing. Kyle Pedicini 268Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design towns are leveraging the demand for housing, for example, to promote redevelopment of older commercial areas into walkable, mixed-use centers with a mix of housing, retail, office and community uses. While this is already provided for to some extent in the Shopping Center Redevelopment Overlay District, there is an opportunity to enhance and expand the poten- tial benefits of that district. This could include expanding the district and adopting more detailed design standards that reflect a clear vision for how the area could be redeveloped in a way that better reflects the historic and cultural character of the community. Historic Preservation in the Context of Climate Change and Sea Level Rise Historic coastal communities across the country are dealing with the challenges of sea level rise, extreme storms and other impacts of climate change. In Barnstable, the town adopted District of Critical Planning Concern Regulations in 2009 that include elements designed to mitigate damage from flooding and sea level rise within the Craigville Beach District. There is an opportunity to review the results of this effort and explore potential updates. The Town can research Flood Area Design Guidelines that provide a useful starting point for adapting to flooding in historic areas. This includes retrofitting structures in place, relocation/ retreat, and building elevation. With care, each of these strategies can be implemented in such a way to reduce the impact of change on historic buildings and neighborhood character. Arts & Culture With the HyArts Cultural District and other investments, the Town has developed physical and programmatic infrastructure with proven success in supporting and expanding art and culture in downtown Hyannis. But those buildings and programs have to be maintained. One challenge is the seasonal nature of the economy, with summer visitors by definition departing with cold weather—and even though the cohort of year-round residents has grown, many travel in the off season. There is a need and opportunity to build on past work in the Cultural Districts to further establish the Town as a year-round visitor destination, and to build a stronger brand as a place where arts and culture thrive. This will require collaboration between the Town, museums, and other cultural district partners to cultivate relationships, facilitate conversations, and strengthen the presence of participant organizations town-wide. Additionally, increased marketing efforts can help to promote the Town’s seven villages and two cultural districts as a multi-faceted year- round cultural destination. Further opportunities include encouraging arts-focused development in downtown Hyannis such as artist residences, and studio, classroom, gallery and performance spaces, and related retail. It also means working to attract, encourage and promote new and existing cultural entities to develop and expand programming and special events to generate year-round interest and increase visitation throughout the town’s seven villages. There Climate adaptation and mitigation projects are critical to preserving Barnstable’s historic relationship with the land and sea as well as protecting village centers and cultural districts that are hubs of community activity and the arts. 269Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design is an opportunity to encourage more public/ private partnerships to utilize existing spaces for arts and culture offerings. There is also interest in exploring whether a year-round performing arts/conference center could attract investors and potential users interested in a wide range of year-round events. Additional physical improvements to the fabric of downtown Hyannis would support these initiatives. This includes improving visibility and the connectivity between parking lots and the Cultural Districts; improving safety and pedestrian accessibility in public places through better lighting, parking, and signage; improving restroom facilities; and generally adding amenities and improving aesthetics. There is also a need to create a clear brand and a signage system for Hyannis Main Street that highlights our diverse community. Maps Mapping is an important tool for visualizing policies. The map below can help the community see where local historic districts exist today. Please see the Existing Conditions Report (page 22) for a fuller range of maps. Downtown Hyannis. Town of Barnstable Communications 270Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design Map 10 .1 . Historic Districts Old King’s Highway (OKH) & Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District (HHDC) 271Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design GOAL #1 Explore opportunities to protect key historical and cultural resources. Actions A. Pursue Certified Local Government (CLG) designation for the Barnstable Historical Commission. B. Develop educational content for owners of National or State Register of Historic Places properties, as well as contractors and realtors, to inform them of the benefits and responsibilities of these designations and provide insight for restoration methods, resources, materials and design standards for historic properties. C. Leverage façade improvement and other district level programs to assist owners in maintaining and adapting commercial historic structures through incentive programs. D. Restore the Historic Marker Program for significant historic buildings to include landscapes and other cultural elements. Encourage local historical societies to support this program in their villages. GOAL #2 Assess expansion of National, State and Local Historic Districts. Actions A. Consider additional Local Historic District designations throughout the Town and educate residents about the benefits of Local Historic District designations. B. Assess additional properties for National Register Nomination and review the criteria for National Register designation to create a short-list of poten- tial properties. GOAL #3 Ensure protection of Archaeological sites. Actions A. Continue town wide archaeological inventory and assessment process to identify important sites. Culture, Heritage & Design Goals & Actions 272Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design GOAL #4 Broaden representation and increase engagement in historic preservation. Actions A. Enhance promotion of the Town’s historic museums for residents and visitors. Provide translated materials to underrepresented populations in Town and make it easier for all residents to participate. B. Involve younger generations in historic preservation through hands-on education and training, living history initiatives in collaboration with local museums including the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, Coast Guard Heritage Museum, and the Blacksmith. GOAL #5 Explore opportunities to enhance preservation of Scenic Resources. Actions A. Ensure that Barnstable’s vistas and viewsheds, both landward and seaward are protected and preserved to retain their community character defining and value enhancing functions by expanding the 2009 Heritage Landscapes Project to include specific strategies to preserve the Town’s most significant natural and cultural landscapes. GOAL #6 Coordinate design standards. Actions A. Pursue design standards that are sensitive to and preserve the historic character of each village. B. Continue to refine the Downtown Hyannis Unified Design Guidelines and Regulations through partnership with the Planning Board and the Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District. 273Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design Sturgis Library. Alora Lanzillotta GOAL #7 Continue to prioritize and coordinate physical and programmatic infrastructure for the Town’s Arts and Culture Program. Actions A. Enhance and expand the cultural districts and work with partners to plan for long-term program funding and facilities maintenance needs. B. Pursue safety and connectivity improvements, including improving paths to parking lots, and enhanced lighting, signage, restrooms, and general aesthetics. GOAL #8 Create and implement consistent signage standards, including public wayfinding and other signage consistent with Barnstable’s image and visual branding. Actions A. Continue to implement the Downtown Hyannis Wayfinding Signage Plan. 274Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design GOAL #9 Pursue public roadside beautification, including landscape mainte- nance, mitigation of invasive species, planting and pruning of public shade trees, and design of utilities. Actions A. Continue to encourage private entities to sponsor installation and mainte- nance of roadside landscaping and coordinate effort to wrap utility boxes. B. Coordinate design standards for landscaping, paving, signage, lighting, tree planting, furnishings, and other elements. C. Utilize revenue from the Hyannis District Improvement Financing (DIF) program to enhance streetscape and public realm assets in the Downtown Hyannis area. GOAL #10 Coordinate opportunities to promote place-based arts and culture. Actions A. Collaborate with cultural partners to support art that reflects local history, landscapes and culture. B. Collaborate with local farms and farmers to create and coordinate art, music and events such as farmers and craft and art markets that celebrate local food and agricultural landscapes. C. Collaborate with boating, fishing, environmental and other members of the Blue Economy community to promote art, music and events that celebrate Barnstable’s connection to the water. D. Work with appropriate town entities to coordinate guidelines and process to incorporate artist elements into streetscapes, public spaces and municipally provided amenities and publications through the development of a Public Arts Master Plan. E. Develop a long-term plan for the Artists Shanties Program to continue to facilitate opportunities for the public to interact with members of the creative economy via Town-run programs that engage the public and artists. 275Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Culture, Heritage, & Design Future Land Use Maps Building upon the Town’s Current Land Use Map the Future Land Use Maps reflect on what Barnstable should be over the next 10 years . The Future Land Use Map is organized as two maps: the Regulatory Areas Map identifies future land use types geographically across Town and the Study Areas Map identifies four areas for further land use study. In developing the Future Land Use Maps, the LCP Committee reflected upon land use types and corresponding areas defined on the Current Land Use Map with consideration of areas of potential change verses areas of stability. An interactive version of the Future Land Use Map was developed to obtain public comment which the Committee reviewed and considered in finalizing the maps. 276Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Future Land Use Maps Town of Barnstable Massachusetts ÿN E S W Future Land Use Regulatory Areas Map Legend LCP_future_land_use_regulatory.mxd 1-15-25 Residential & Rural Existing Residential Zoning Districts Regional Economic Center Existing Commercial District Downtown Hyannis GIZ / Historic Village Existing Hyannis Growth Incentive Zone Historic Village Centers Identified to be preserved as quintessential New England Main Street Commercial Nodes Existing mixed-use/commercial districts Light Commercial Identified as a corridor to study for traffic impacts to analyze proper land uses Resource Protection Overlay District (RPOD) Existing 2-acre zoning superimposed over existing residential zoning districts to protect groundwater quality !(Î Maritime Areas Existing marinas Town Boundary Line Roads Railroad Tracks Source: Town of Barnstable Building upon the Current Land Use Map, this map identifies land use types geographically across Town. The Future Land Use Map is relatively consistent with strategic planning areas of the Current Land Use Map. The land use strategy remains consistent, incentivizing redevelopment within Downtown Hyannis/Growth Incentive Zone, maintaining the Regional Economic Center, and conserva- tion of the Resource Protection Overlay District. The Village Centers are highlighted and identified to be preserved. The Commercial Nodes are consistent with the Current Land Use Map with the exception of West Main Street being newly identified as Light Commercial requiring further study to identify desired uses that may reduce impacts to a congested corridor. 277Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Future Land Use Maps Reflecting upon public comment and LCP Committee discussions, this map identifies four key areas for future study over the next 10 years. The Community College Area Master Plan is identified as a location for further land use study in partnership with the Community College. The Independence Village Area Master Plan is identified for further land use study to understand proper use types and opportunities for connectivity and neighborhood building. The West End Neighborhood Area Master Plan is identified to study corridor traffic and to analyze proper land uses. Lastly, the Route 132 Corridor Study Area was identified to study corridor traffic and to analyzed proper land uses. 278Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Future Land Use Maps Targeted Action Plan Building upon the Existing Conditions, Key Issues and Opportunities and feedback from the community for priority efforts, the Targeted Action Plan provides topic and location specific goals and actions to be achieved over the next 10 years including responsible parties, potential funding sources, and identifies how each action relates to the various chapter topics . The Targeted Action Plan is organized by the following topics: Land Use, Housing, Natural Resources, Infrastructure, Facilities, Economic Development and Culture, Heritage and Design. 279Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Land Use Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Amend the Town’s zoning to incorporate requirements for the built and natural environment with best practice strategies related to coastal flooding resiliency and potential need to retreat. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Establish new lot coverage requirements or enhance existing requirements to define maximum impervious coverage in residential zoning districts. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 1 Analyze current standards for lot coverage and building massing in the Residential Areas. Consider creating or decreasing maximum lot coverage limitations and/or establishing floor to area ratio (FAR) limits in strategic areas to contain the spread of impervious surfaces and to improve coastal flooding resilience. GOAL 2 To preserve open lands, agricultural lands, and cultural, historic, and scenic landscapes, explore locations for an increased lot size requirement in areas with insufficient infrastructure. GOAL 3 Continue to explore opportunities to protect or acquire areas of land to retain and expand open space. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Conduct an analysis of the parcels in the Resource Protection Overlay District (RPOD) currently zoned for two acres by overlaying maps of natural, historic, and scenic resources to help identify if the RPOD should be expanded. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Conduct an analysis of the parcels in areas with sufficient infrastructure and consider amending the RPOD for development potential. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Seek to increase land protected in perpetuity with prioritization for land that is contiguous with existing open space, adjacent to a wetland as well as opportunities to establish or expand greenways and wildlife corridors of sufficient width to protect edge species and species that inhabit the interior forest. Mid-term Planning & Development Community Preservation Committee Community Preservation Act (CPA) State grants 280Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Land Use Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Actively promote Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 61A property tax benefits to rural landowners.Short-term Planning & Development Conservation Town Manager Not applicable GOAL 5 Consider incentives and tax benefits for agricultural lands to increase intensity and economic possibility. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Study options for requiring the use of open space residential development in rural residential zoning districts where the protected open space can help conserve and connect important natural resources or where the development is near mixed-use zoning districts. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable B If requirements prove infeasible, explore incentives for incorporating open space residential development in these areas, such as waiving permitting fees or offering tax credits. Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 6 Consider incentives or requirements for open space residential development. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Develop and adopt standards to improve connectivity between new residential development and nearby parks, schools, shopping, and services, including sidewalks, bike paths, and enhanced transit. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 7 Improve connectivity between residential and commercial users in the Regional Economic Center. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Amend the Town’s zoning to require that residential and commercial properties are improved with or maintain existing vegetated landscape buffers between other properties and adjacent to water bodies. Short-term Planning & Development Conservation Not applicable B Amend the Town’s zoning to require that new trees be planted whenever a significant tree is removed except where necessary for safety purposes, etc. and consider alternative methods including a fee in lieu. The Town will also consider providing incentives when significant trees, beyond any applicable requirements, are planted. The Town will work with the Tree Warden to determine criteria for defining a significant tree. Short-term Planning & Development Conservation Tree Warden Not applicable C Set standards for the maximum lot clearance allowed for development in rural residential zoning districts as well as Sensitive Habitat Areas including open space that is protected in perpetuity and BioMap Core Habitat and Critical Natural Landscape. Short-term Planning & Development Conservation Not applicable GOAL 4 Amend the zoning ordinance to enhance requirements to retain existing tree canopy and establish new requirements to increase tree canopy. 281Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Land Use Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Ensure that zoning allows these housing types to accommodate mixed-use with ground floor commercial.Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Ensure that housing development will have minimal impact on traffic through integration of traffic mitigation measures. Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Not applicable C Amend the Town’s zoning to light commercial along West Main Street with emphasis for integration of traffic mitigation measures and village center oriented design and scale. Consider prohibiting multi-family development of greater than 12 units along West Main Street and the Route 28 corridor as shown on the Future Land Use Map. Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Not applicable D Support development and redevelopment of housing and other associated uses on underutilized properties around the Cape Cod mall. Explore expanding the Town’s HD zone to enable tax relief incentives through the State’s Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) program. Short-term Planning & Development Affordable Housing Growth and Development Trust E Support housing development and redevelopment on underutilized properties within the Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ). Short-term Planning & Development Affordable Housing Growth and Development Trust GOAL 9 Develop and adopt standards, including design standards or guidelines, for additional housing types at a scale between two-family dwellings and small multi-family dwellings as well as mixed-use that can be allowed in the Commercial Nodes. GOAL 10 Evaluate regulations to incentivize conforming uses. GOAL 11 Protect and strengthen the existing working harbor activities and character, maintain water views and improve public access. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Conduct an analysis of all non-conforming non-residential uses in the Town.Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Amend the Town’s zoning to ensure that existing public water views are protected or enhanced. Consider establishing view corridors that are required to remain free of view-obstructing buildings, structures, site improvements or landscaping other than low-growing plant material or existing natural vegetation. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 8 Ensure adequate open space is available for residents and visitors to Hyannis to balance the impact of the Growth Incentive Zone. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A The Town should identify and map potential open space/recreational properties in Hyannis and develop plans to enhance or acquire land, given the limited availability of land for standalone park and recreation purposes. Short-term Planning & Development Community Preservation Act (CPA) State grants 282Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Conduct the Independence Village Area Master Plan as shown on the Future Land Use Map.Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Conduct the West End Neighborhood Area Master Plan as shown on the Future Land Use Map to study traffic impacts and analyze proper land uses. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Conduct the Community College Area Master Plan as shown on the Future Land Use Map for further land use in partnership with the Community College. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable D Study the Route 132 corridor as shown on the Future Land Use Map to study traffic impacts and analyze proper land uses. Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable Land Use Targeted Action Plan GOAL 12 Reflect on the Future Land Use Map and coordinate further study for the areas identified on the map. 283Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Housing Targeted Action Plan GOAL 1 Explore methods for incentivizing the creation of year-round rental units. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore a residential property tax exemption under Massachusetts General Law (MGL) c. 59 §5O for Barnstable property owners that provide year-round rentals. Mid-term Town Council Not applicable B Explore feasibility to provide financial incentives to promote year-round rentals such as Provincetown’s Lease to Locals Program. Mid-term Planning & Development Affordable Housing Growth and Development Trust Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Identify strategies to support workforce housing and promote attainable and affordable, equity and wealth building, long-term homeownership opportunities such as the CommonWealth Builder Program. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Amend the Town’s zoning to support the creation of housing units consistent with local needs including but not limited to affordable assisted or independent living units for low-income seniors, affordable year-round rental and ownership housing, workforce housing, and housing for residents with special needs. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A To generate more affordable units, consider requiring a higher percentage of affordable units at a range of income levels, and making the required percentage proportionate to the size of the development. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Look for opportunities to provide expedited permitting, zoning relief, density bonuses, and financial subsidy for developments that provide affordable housing beyond what is required. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Establish a calculation for an in-lieu of fee payment that is comparable to the housing market and can be utilized to support local housing initiatives. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 2 Develop strategies that will address the seasonal housing challenges unique to the region. GOAL 3 Assess potential zoning and other opportunities to expand housing options to meet a variety of housing needs. GOAL 4 Strengthen the inclusionary affordable housing ordinance. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore opportunities to place year-round deed-restrictions on residential units such as the InDEED program in Vail, Colorado. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Consider regulations and other policies focused on short-term rentals to the extent they impact year-round affordable housing. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Explore increasing the residential tax exemption for principal residences of taxpayers under Massachusetts General Law (MGL) c. 59 §5C. Mid-term Town Council Not applicable 284Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Housing Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Create and/or support a regional housing services office (RHSO) to expand resource capacity and support monitoring compliance of existing affordable units. Short-term Planning & Development Community Preservation Act (CPA) Affordable Housing Growth and Development Trust ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Maintain a build-out analysis, for the entire town, overlaying future sewer service areas, and current and anticipated land dedicated to water supply and protection, with the Town’s zoning to comprehensively consider opportunities for future housing and open space. Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Not applicable GOAL 5 Pursue the creation of affordable year-round housing on vacant and/or underutilized land or properties as consistent with the Future Land Use Map. GOAL 7 Improve monitoring compliance of existing affordable units. GOAL 9 Closely coordinate implementation of the Town’s Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan and housing development to address both natural resource protection and housing needs. GOAL 6 Plan and partner with entities to produce permanent supportive housing for unhoused people. GOAL 8 Pursue community-supported opportunities to add housing on Town properties. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore opportunities to incorporate year-round housing ensuring walkable communities in the study areas identified on the Future Land Use Map. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Consider updating the Town's Local Initiative Program (LIP) guidelines or future Affordable Housing Growth and Development Trust Fund Notices of Funding Availability (NOFAs) to encourage inclusion of units for formerly homeless households. Mid-term Planning & Development Affordable Housing Growth and Development Trust Not applicable B Strengthen communication with homelessness service providers to ensure their clientele are aware of and assisted with the application processes for future affordable housing opportunities. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Develop a Master Plan for key town-owned properties such as the former Marstons Mills Elementary School and the land around the Barnstable Adult Community Center. Short-term Planning & Development State grants B Create an inventory of Town-owned property, land and buildings to be analyzed for suitable affordable housing development. Short-term Planning & Development Asset Management Not applicable 285Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Housing Targeted Action Plan GOAL 10 Explore public-private partnerships with the Town’s largest employers, and opportunities internally with the Barnstable Public Schools, to create workforce and seasonal housing for employees and students. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Support the development of workforce housing with tax relief incentives. Explore establishing funding stream for this purpose. Mid-term Planning & Development Finance Affordable Housing Growth and Development Trust 286Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Natural Resources Targeted Action Plan GOAL 1 Continue to conduct long-range land use and capital facilities planning for future provision and protection of Barnstable’s public water supply. GOAL 3 Continue to practice water conservation measures to help ensure adequate water supply. GOAL 2 Continue to prioritize the public acquisition of lands within 400 feet of a future public supply well Zone I, as well as Zone II areas most susceptible to contamination. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A The Town will continue to collaborate with independent water districts to analyze data and implement plans to acquire future wells and associated lands before development occurs and designate Zones of Contribution and Wellhead Protection Zones for future public supply wells. Short-term Water Districts Department of Public Works Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A The Town’s Water Supply Division and the water districts in Town will aggressively expand their Water Conservation Programs, by combining public education with incentives and regulatory tools to drive measurable reductions in water use. This potentially includes subsidized distribution of WaterSense-certified fixtures, rebates for low-water-use landscaping, and targeted outreach to reduce excessive irrigation. Short-term Water Supply Division Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Coordinate with adjacent communities, as applicable, when land surrounding a future public supply well expands into or abuts another town. Short-term Department of Public Works Not applicable B Maintain a map that depicts all Zone I and Zone II areas overlaid with existing conservation lands.Short-term Information Technology (IT)Not applicable C Develop a plan to prioritize acquisition of land that is contiguous with Zone I and Zone II areas.Mid-term Planning & Development Community Preservation Act (CPA) GOAL 4 Control erosion in barrier beaches and coastal banks to the greatest extent possible to protect important wildlife habitat and recreational amenities and provide storm surge protection. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Accomplish the Sandy Neck Beach Park coastal resiliency project.Short-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Department of Public Works State grants 287Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Natural Resources Targeted Action Plan GOAL 6 Update and expand the scope of the Town’s Coastal Resource Management Plan (2009) to provide guidance for the various competing uses of all the Town’s harbors and coastal resources including balancing protecting habitat and overall coastal water quality and providing coastal access for passive and active water dependent recreational activities. GOAL 7 Within lake and pond recharge areas, development or redevelopment located within 300 feet of freshwater water bodies shall be required to meet critical nutrient loading standards. GOAL 5 Develop a long-term restoration plan for the town’s salt marshes. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore establishing moratoriums on new (non pre-existing) or expansion of existing docks and moorings until the plan is updated to evaluate the effects of these structures on shellfish and other habitat. Short-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Planning & Development Not applicable B Evaluate proactive planning and permitting to protect endangered species habitat while still providing recreational opportunity to the public. Mid-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to explore requiring or incentivizing emerging technologies for septic systems in priority areas not identified to be sewered through the Town’s Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) and ensure appropriate management of septic systems. Mid-term Department of Public Works Not applicable B Provide outreach to property owners so they are aware of and take advantage of the state tax credit, as applicable, for installing emerging technologies for septic systems. Short-term Department of Public Works Not applicable C Develop a pilot project for emerging technologies for septic systems for properties not identified to be sewered within the timeframe of this plan. Long-term Department of Public Works State grants D Engage in regional efforts including the Cape Cod Commission’s Regional Pond Monitoring Program to monitor water quality for the Town’s ponds and lakes and other ways in which the Town can track TMDLs. Short-term Department of Public Works Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Identify and map potential areas for marsh migration and prioritize protection of these areas in collaboration with local nonprofits like Mass Audubon, Orenda, and others that already have started this type of work. Mid-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Conservation Not applicable B Establish techniques to increase accretion of saltwater marshes to help them keep up with sea level rise over time. Mid-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Conservation Not applicable C Build on the work conducted to date through the Ecosystem Restoration Program in collaboration with the Association to Preserve Cape Cod. Mid-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Conservation Not applicable D Continue to identify and protect the Town’s remaining eelgrass beds.Short-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Not applicable 288Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Natural Resources Targeted Action Plan GOAL 10 Examine opportunities to enhance communications to abutters for large-scale proposals submitted to the Conservation Commission. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore the ability to require notification of proposals within 300 feet of a pond to all property owners along the pond shoreline. Mid-term Planning & Development Conservation Not applicable GOAL 11 Establish a living list of native and climate resilient tree and shrub species of all sizes that can thrive in current and future climate conditions projected for the region, paired with a list of complementary best practices for planting and maintenance. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A At application, provide applicant with the tree and shrub list to promote biodiversity especially within wetland buffers and forested areas and provide guidance for urban verses rural streetscaping and for open space environments. Short-term Planning & Development Conservation Not applicable GOAL 8 Continue to coordinate an inventory and analysis of all of the Town’s freshwater ponds and lakes to evaluate the status of each waterbody including water quality and additional impacts like flooding. GOAL 9 Maximize the ecological health of the Town’s 5 herring runs. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to institute the Town’s Pond and Lake Management Plan Program which involves monitoring nutrient sources to better understand the sources that impair our freshwater ponds and lakes and developing management reports with recommendations to restore water quality. Short-term Department of Public Works Conservation Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Identify and map obstructions along the herring runs.Short-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Department of Public Works Not applicable GOAL 12 Increase tree canopy and vegetation buffers to protect sensitive areas and enhance wildlife habitat. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to implement the Greening Hyannis program to increase tree canopy. Short-term Planning & Development Tree Warden State grants B The Conservation Commission shall establish objective and consistent criteria for requiring a larger buffer (e.g. where the standard buffers are inadequate to protect sensitive areas or where the site conditions such as slopes or soils suggest that a larger buffer is necessary to prevent adverse impacts). Mid-term Conservation Commission Not applicable C Investigate Town land for potential to develop a tree farm. Identify where more trees could be added on Town land not subject to coastal flooding. Long-term Planning & Development Asset Management Not applicable 289Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Natural Resources Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore incentives for ecological landscaping such as a rain garden rebate program. Promote reduction of lawn areas and elimination of irrigation. Mid-term Planning & Development State grants B Explore establishing a tree bank program through which trees can be planted or donated as off-site mitigation. Long-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works State grants C Explore potential opportunities for the Town to grow indigenous plants to be accessible to residents at no cost . Long-term Department of Public Works Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) D Establish regulations on fertilizer, herbicides, and pesticides consistent with State laws.Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable E Explore opportunities to provide a pet waste drop off at the Town’s wastewater treatment plant.Mid-term Department of Public Works Not applicable GOAL 15 The Town will consider regulations that place more responsibility on property owners regarding environmentally sound practices, and lead by example with its own practices, including, but not limited to: GOAL 13 Analyze town-owned properties to identify areas, especially within the right-of-way, that can be improved with vegetation, such as existing medians. GOAL 14 Explore opportunities to increase aquaculture on the south side of Town. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore opportunities to expand the Town’s Adopt-A-Spot Program and prioritize use of low-maintenance native perennials. Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Evaluate mechanism for shellfish habitat protection. Mid-term Marine & Environmental Affairs Not applicable 290Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Natural Resources Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to develop and maintain signage, and outreach programs, including GIS mapping for posting to the Town’s website. Short-term Parking Community Services Information Technology (IT) Not applicable GOAL 17 Continue to expand the Ways to Water Program, to re-establish and/or designate through appropriate legal means traditional rights of ways to the water to ensure that these are not lost or abandoned. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Increase open space to enhance environmental protection, recreational opportunities and community character. Short-term Planning & Development Community Preservation Act (CPA) B Develop priority list of parcels for “undevelopment” for traffic mitigation and associated open space protection. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Evaluate success of the Town’s Open Space Residential development (aka “cluster”) ordinance in preserving open space, and develop recommendation to revise the ordinance. Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable D Identify and prioritize parcels for protection through easements, conservation restrictions and other non- regulatory means. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable E Encourage the accommodation of public access rights in conservation restrictions on non-sensitive land through establishing an incentive program for landowner donations. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 16 The Town will pursue the goals of its Open Space and Recreation Plan, adopted in 2018, including: 291Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Infrastructure Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Identify and coordinate designs and improvements for priority low-lying roads including Bridge Street, and Ocean Street defined as top priorities within the Cape Cod Commission’s Low-Lying Roads Project and other roadways identified as priorities. Mid-term Department of Public Works Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) GOAL 1 Identify and prioritize improvements to low-lying roads to improve resilience. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore ability to coordinate remote parking access as well as opportunities to improve pedestrian and bicycle access to transportation hubs such as the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority and the Cape Cod Gateway Airport. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Coordinate with the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) to enhance transit options to existing and potential developments. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Seek opportunities to extend the CapeFLYER to provide year-round service.Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Conduct an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance audit on the accessibility and safety of bus stops and other transit facilities, busy intersections and intersections with high crash rates, roadway signage, etc. Prioritize this analysis within Hyannis and use lessons learned to expand the audit townwide. Short-term Human Resources State grants B Continue to coordinate the Downtown Hyannis Great Streets project for the conversion of Main Street and surrounding street networks to two-way circulation to support safe and walkable neighborhoods. Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants GOAL 4 Explore multi-modal facilities and operations to reduce vehicle travel and land dedicated to parking in Downtown Hyannis for ferry service. GOAL 2 Expand transit options within and to employment centers, village centers, and areas of concentrated residential development. Explore options for increasing Barnstable’s connectivity with off-Cape destinations, including by rail. GOAL 3 Address accessibility deficiencies across Barnstable’s transportation system, making transportation options safe and accessible for people of all ages and abilities, languages, and cultures. 292Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Infrastructure Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to develop a policy for the Town to take over ownership and responsibility of private roads. Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Not applicable GOAL 6 Continue to pursue roadway easements for sewer installation on private roads impacted by the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Submit priority roadway improvement projects to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to obtain funding for construction of the projects. Short-term Department of Public Works Planning & Development Not applicable B Implement traffic calming measures and incorporate public spaces where possible with the design of new roadways. Short-term Department of Public Works Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to prioritize submission of priority roadway improvement projects to the TIP.Short-term Department of Public Works Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Complete the Cape Cod Rail Trail in Barnstable that connects from Yarmouth to Sandwich and coordinate multi-modal connections to the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Mid-term Department of Public Works State grants GOAL 9 Continue to implement the Town’s Complete Streets Policy and Prioritization Plan. GOAL 7 Actively participate, submit projects, and seek priority on the Cape Cod Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to leverage State and Federal funding for local and/or regional priority transportation projects. GOAL 8 Continue to build out the Town’s system of bike lanes, bike paths, bike routes, and related amenities, prioritizing safety and connections with other existing bikeways, the future Cape Cod Rail Trail, and linkages to public facilities, recreation and conservation areas, village centers, educational facilities, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority, etc. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore regulatory opportunities to incentivize joint uses for underutilized parking lots.Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Explore opportunities to add structured parking in Downtown Hyannis in order to reduce the parking footprint. Consider potential for incorporation of a rooftop garden, solar panels and parking spaces for motorcoaches. Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 5 Use parking facilities to their full capacity and look for opportunities to develop joint uses. 293Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Infrastructure Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore future expansion of water treatment plan for emerging contaminants including PFAS and other similar contaminants. Long-term Department of Public Works Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Identify the need to develop one or more new public well sites and develop associated financial strategies. Mid-term Department of Public Works Water Districts Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) GOAL 12 Continue to update water treatment technology to address regulatory mandates and emerging and known contaminants. GOAL 11 Coordinate next steps on expanding water supply infrastructure to comply with redundancy requirements and plan for long-term resilience. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Evaluate implementation of the the CWMP every five years or as otherwise required to confirm that the Town is meeting the goals defined within the plan. Mid-term Department of Public Works Not applicable B Review and implement programs to require or incentivize emerging technologies for septic systems for properties not identified to be sewered through the CWMP. Long-term Department of Public Works Not applicable C Continue to evaluate actual growth realized vs projected build out to identify capacity of the Town’s on-going sewer improvement in accordance with the CWMP. Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Not applicable GOAL 10 Continue to implement the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) and coordinate updates as required by such factors as growth, environmental impact or regulatory requirements to address the community’s wastewater needs as prescribed by regional, state, and federal regulations. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Update culvert inventory to develop a prioritization plan to coordinate future improvements. Short-term Department of Public Works Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Develop an Energy Efficiency Plan to refine and outline energy reduction goals, strategies to reduce energy consumption and improve energy efficiency, and how progress towards goals will be tracked. Mid-term Asset Management State grants GOAL 13 Continue to update aging and undersized culverts to improve coastal resiliency, emergency hazard response, and water quality, and restore wildlife habitat, where feasible. GOAL 14 Continue to update and monitor existing greenhouse gas emissions inventories and execute projects to reduce emissions. 294Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Infrastructure Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Develop a Lighting Plan that focuses on frequently traveled roadways, bike and pedestrian corridors used for daily travel to work and at intersections with high nighttime crash rates. Mid-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Not applicable B Set lighting standards that reduce or eliminate glare and light pollution into the night sky.Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 16 Develop a town-wide lighting survey to determine where additional street lighting is necessary to improve vehicular and pedestrian safety. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Coordinate Road Safety Audits (RSA) for existing intersections to examine road safety issues and to identify opportunities for improvements in safety for all road users. Short-term Department of Public Works State grants GOAL 15 Target improvements to roadways and intersections with the highest crash rate to reduce the number of vehicle and pedestrian crashes and to improve the safety of all users. 295Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Facilities Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A The Town will support and encourage the joint planning, siting, development and use of public facilities and services through interdepartmental coordination and in collaboration with community organizations in areas of mutual concern and benefit in order to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize impacts on the environment such as conducting a needs assessment for ongoing operations for the Hyannis Youth and Community Center. Short-term Asset Management Community Services Department of Public Works Not applicable B Monitor and benchmark services and infrastructure necessary to support development and redevelopment without decreasing levels of service adopted by this plan to ensure there will be adequate personnel levels consistent with population and demographic needs. Short-term Asset Management Community Services Department of Public Works School Department Not applicable C Provide inter-generational spaces and programing to diminish feelings of isolation. Mid-term Council on Aging Planning & Development Not applicable D Strengthen social interaction and neighborhood engagement across the community for all ages.Short-term Council on Aging Not applicable GOAL 1 Provide well-maintained public facilities and services that serve the current and future social, economic, cultural, safety, traffic, and communication needs of the community; that are equitably distributed; and are provided with minimal environmental impact. ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Develop mechanism to calculate public safety services impact when development is proposed.Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Continue to implement goals defined within the Comprehensive Athletic Fields and Courts Study and the Town of Barnstable ADA Self Evaluation and Transition Plan. Short-term Community Services Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Actively explore integration of multi-modal transportation services with airport services through the development of a fixed-route microtransit program to deliver people to and from the Airport and Downtown Hyannis. Mid-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works State grants B Implement goals established within the Airport Master Plan. Mid-term Cape Cod Gateway Airport Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) GOAL 2 Provide high quality public safety services for the residents of Barnstable through cost effective maintenance and upgrades of facilities and equipment. GOAL 3 Continue existing operations at the Cape Cod Gateway Airport and better integrate the Airport within the regional transportation network. 296Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Facilities Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Identify and secure or retain land for future school facility expansion and/or redevelopment.Mid-term School Department Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants B Continue to implement goals defined within the Barnstable Public Schools Facilities Condition Assessment.Short-term School Department Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants C Complete feasibility study to examine the possibility of creating workforce housing on public properties. Mid-term Planning & Development State grants D Ensure that future buildout projections and residential development proposals are communicated to the affected public school district in a timely manner so they can plan effectively for future needs. Short-term Planning & Development School Department Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Review priorities defined within the Facility Tour Evaluation and confirm implementation. Mid-term Community Services Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore opportunities for trails, playgrounds (equip with shade structures, water features, and interactive board games), pickleball and basketball courts, and outdoor fitness stations. Mid-term Community Services Community Preservation Act (CPA) B Explore opportunities for recreational activities including community gardens and farmers markets.Mid-term Community Services Community Preservation Act (CPA) GOAL 4 Provide educational facilities to meet the present and future needs of Barnstable residents. GOAL 5 The Town will pursue the goals defined within the Recreation Commission’s Recreation Facility Tour Evaluation. GOAL 6 Expand recreational opportunities across Town for residents of all ages and abilities. In particular, coordinate recreational opportunities and activities accessible to people who are visually impaired and incorporate ADA accessibility. 297Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Economic Development Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Evaluate Tax Increment Financing (TIF) guidelines and policies to ensure that the town’s program incentivizes investment in industries that are desired by the community and provide well-paying jobs with benefits. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Support reauthorization of the Downtown Hyannis Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) and consider readjusting the boundary of the GIZ, as applicable. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Conduct the Independence Village Master Plan as shown as on the Future Land Use Map to analyze existing zoning and land uses to develop recommendations to modernize zoning. Short-term Planning & Development State grants ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore ways to continue and expand the Downtown Hyannis Façade grant program which incentives locally owned businesses to reinvest profits into the community. Short-term Planning & Development State grants B Continue to develop resources for economic development and small businesses by publishing timely and relevant information on funding/grant opportunities, technical assistance possibilities, and relevant community data through on-going administration of the Business Barnstable website and email Newsletter. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Seek to develop additional public facing data tools that include relevant economic indicators and information. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to participate in and implement solutions from the Hyannis Access Study and continue to coordinate the Downtown Hyannis Great Streets project to improve traffic flow. Short-term Planning & Development Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants B Develop projects and identify possible grant funding to build and maintain infrastructure needs.Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Not applicable C Encourage the development of grid resilience by investing in redundant power sources at municipal buildings. Long-term Asset Management Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants D Seek out and support upgrades to telecommunication infrastructure for public and commercial broadband access within Barnstable at the Town’s parks and beaches. Mid-term Planning & Development Information & Technology (IT) Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants GOAL 1 Support a market-driven, place-based approach that builds on our existing assets, a tradition of locally-owned businesses, and encourages economic balance, diversity, and sustainability. GOAL 2 Revise and simplify land use regulations including zoning to foster economic development. GOAL 3 Retain and strengthen local business in the Town of Barnstable. GOAL 4 Coordinate infrastructure with new growth. 298Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Increase availability of public access to the water by seeking out opportunities to purchase land that could provide new public ways to the water. Enhance public beaches and support water-dependent activities with amenities. Mid-term Planning & Development Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Community Preservation Act (CPA) State grants B Maintain, improve, and promote high quality public recreational facilities including beaches, trails, fields, and parks including completion of the Rail Trail connection project from Yarmouth to Sandwich and completion of the Osterville and Centerville Playground projects. Increase maintenance and add amenities that respond to emerging recreational trends. Mid-term Department of Public Works Community Services Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Community Preservation Act (CPA) State grants C Support and maintain town-owned golf courses to attract visitors and to continue to serve as an attractive amenity for year-round residents. Short-term Community Services Not applicable D Continue to support the Hyannis Youth and Community Center (HYCC), including the ability to host events that bring visitors into town and provide a year-round recreational gathering place for all ages through completion of the HYCC Master Plan to examine the facility and recommend changes to better reflect future recreational needs. Short-term Community Services Not applicable E Promote the Hyannis Harbor Hawks and Cotuit Kettleers, and support the presence of the Cape Cod Baseball League in Barnstable including exploring opportunities to site the Cape Cod Baseball League Hall of Fame in Barnstable. Short-term Community Services Not applicable F Attract and support the development of an indoor recreational facility through completion of a feasibility study for indoor recreation facility to obtain project costs and identify possible locations. Long-term Community Services Planning & Development Not applicable G Construct a regulation 440 yard (~402 meters) outdoor running track which will be accessible to the public seven days per week from sunrise until darkness. Long-term Community Services Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Community Preservation Act (CPA) Economic Development Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Support development of educational curricula that connects to existing or desirable employment opportunities and career advancement such as renewable energy, medical services and sciences and technologies focusing on coastal, marine, and environmental sectors through collaboration with educational partners (BHS, CCCC, Cape Tech) to develop apprenticeship programs that respond to local workforce needs. Long-term Planning & Development School Department Not applicable GOAL 5 Emphasize educational efforts that serve as economic drivers to expand collective intellectual capital and support an emerging workforce. GOAL 6 Support the maintenance and development of recreational activities for residents and visitors. Fund and implement findings and actions from the state approved Open Space and Recreation Plan. 299Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Economic Development Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Collaborate with cultural partners to expand programming, marketing and outreach to generate year-round interest and increase visitation throughout the town’s seven villages including coordinating expansion of the Town’s Tourism Mini-Grants. Short-term Planning & Development Tourism Fund State grants B Attract, encourage and promote new and existing cultural entities to develop and expand programming to generate year-round interest and increase visitation throughout the town’s seven villages. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Collaborate with other town departments to incorporate the arts to creatively coordinate town services, design shared spaces, engage citizens in town government and improve residents’ quality of life. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Enhance and expand the Walkway to the Sea to encompass more of the harbor front, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, JFK Memorial, Veteran’s Beach, the end of Ocean Street and Kalmus Park. Mid-term Planning & Development Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants B Identify locations for creative shared parking solutions for the Cape Cod Gateway Airport, Cape Cod Regional Transportation Center, the Cape Cod Hospital and Hyannis Harbor. Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Support the continued development of eco-tourism, tourism that explores, experiences, and observes nature by marketing and improving the Town’s trail system and ways to water. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable D Allocate a portion of the current room occupancy tax revenue to visitor marketing and promotion to increase the Town’s Tourism Fund. Short-term Planning & Development Finance Room Occupancy Tax Revenue E Work with appropriate public and private transportation entities to ensure provision of year-round, reliable transportation and trolley service in support of visitors and the workforce. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Explore and promote incentives such as the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to encourage healthcare providers to locate within Barnstable. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Support the expansion and modernization of healthcare infrastructure and work with Cape Cod Hospital to address their workforce housing challenges. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable GOAL 7 Support and promote arts and culture in the Town of Barnstable to make its seven villages vibrant and economically prosperous communities for the well-being of its residents. Encourage continued development of the creative economy to increase cultural tourism, capture sector dollars and to position the Town as a year-round cultural destination. GOAL 8 Strengthen and enhance our visitor-based economy to make Barnstable a year-round destination. GOAL 9 Support the healthcare sector by fostering economic growth, improving access to healthcare, and enhancing the overall well-being of the community. 300Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Economic Development Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Identify skill gaps in marine industries for workforce development and conversion from jobs to careers by working with educational community and workforce development organizations including the Brazilian Resource Center— Health Ministry to help them to develop curriculum in order to expand workforce opportunities. Mid-term Planning & Development State grants B Support the development, growth, and retention of innovative technologies that can be shared and exported by utilizing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to attract new industries in bio-tech and clean water to locate in Barnstable. Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Continue to seek ways to support the commercial finfish and shellfish industry, including investment in relevant waterfront facilities. This should include conducting a feasibility study to examine locating a new commercial finfish and shellfish offload facility in Town. Mid-term Planning & Development Marine & Environmental Affairs Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants GOAL 10 Cultivate innovative Blue Economy initiatives that stimulate economic growth, promote environmental sustainability, and enhance the quality of life for our residents. 301Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Culture, Heritage, & Design Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Pursue Certified Local Government (CLG) designation for the Barnstable Historical Commission.Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Develop educational content for owners of National or State Register of Historic Places properties, as well as contractors and realtors, to inform them of the benefits and responsibilities of these designations and provide insight for restoration methods, resources, materials and design standards for historic properties. Mid-term Planning & Development Not applicable C Leverage façade improvement and other district level programs to assist owners in maintaining and adapting commercial historic structures through incentive programs. Mid-term Planning & Development State grants D Restore the Historic Marker Program for significant historic buildings to include landscapes and other cultural elements. Encourage local historical societies to support this program in their villages. Mid-term Planning & Development State grants ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Consider additional Local Historic District designations throughout the Town and educate residents about the benefits of Local Historic District designations. Short-term Planning & Development State grants B Assess additional properties for National Register Nomination and review the criteria for National Register designation to create a short-list of potential properties. Short-term Planning & Development State grants ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue town wide archaeological inventory and assessment process to identify important sites. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Enhance promotion of the Town’s historic museums for residents and visitors. Provide translated materials to underrepresented populations in Town and make it easier for all residents to participate. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Involve younger generations in historic preservation through hands-on education and training, living history initiatives in collaboration with local museums including the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, Coast Guard Heritage Museum, and the Blacksmith. Short-term School Department Not applicable GOAL 1 Explore opportunities to protect key historical and cultural resources. GOAL 2 Assess expansion of National, State and Local Historic Districts. GOAL 3 Ensure protection of Archaeological sites. GOAL 4 Broaden representation and increase engagement in historic preservation. 302Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Culture, Heritage, & Design Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Pursue design standards that are sensitive to and preserve the historic character of each village.Mid-term Planning & Development State grants B Continue to refine the Downtown Hyannis Unified Design Guidelines and Regulations through partnership with the Planning Board and the Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District. Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Ensure that Barnstable’s vistas and viewsheds, both landward and seaward are protected and preserved to retain their community character defining and value enhancing functions by expanding the 2009 Heritage Landscapes Project to include specific strategies to preserve the Town’s most significant natural and cultural landscapes. Long-term Planning & Development Not applicable ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Enhance and expand the cultural districts and work with partners to plan for long-term program funding and facilities maintenance needs. Mid-term Planning & Development Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants B Pursue safety and connectivity improvements, including improving paths to parking lots, and enhanced lighting, signage, restrooms, and general aesthetics. Short-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) State grants ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to implement the Downtown Hyannis Wayfinding Signage Plan.Short-term Planning & Development State grants ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Continue to encourage private entities to sponsor installation and maintenance of roadside landscaping and coordinate effort to wrap utility boxes. Short-term Planning & Development Tourism Fund B Coordinate design standards for landscaping, paving, signage, lighting, tree planting, furnishings, and other elements. Short-term Planning & Development State grants C Utilize revenue from the Hyannis District Improvement Financing (DIF) program to enhance streetscape and public realm assets in the Downtown Hyannis area. Mid-term Planning & Development Department of Public Works District Improvement Financing (DIF) GOAL 6 Coordinate design standards. GOAL 5 Explore opportunities to enhance preservation of Scenic Resources. GOAL 7 Continue to prioritize and coordinate physical and programmatic infrastructure for the Town’s Arts and Culture Program. GOAL 8 Create and implement consistent signage standards, including public wayfinding and other signage consistent with Barnstable’s image and visual branding. GOAL 9 Pursue public roadside beautification, including landscape maintenance, mitigation of invasive species, planting and pruning of public shade trees, and design of utilities. 303Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Culture, Heritage, & Design Targeted Action Plan ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBLE PARTIES POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCE OVERLAP WITH OTHER CHAPTERS A Collaborate with cultural partners to support art that reflects local history, landscapes and culture.Short-term Planning & Development Not applicable B Collaborate with local farms and farmers to create and coordinate art, music and events such as farmers and craft and art markets that celebrate local food and agricultural landscapes. Short-term Planning & Development Tourism Fund C Collaborate with boating, fishing, environmental and other members of the Blue Economy community to promote art, music and events that celebrate Barnstable’s connection to the water. Short-term Planning & Development Tourism Fund D Work with appropriate town entities to coordinate guidelines and process to incorporate artist elements into streetscapes, public spaces and municipally provided amenities and publications through the development of a Public Arts Master Plan. Mid-term Planning & Development State grants E Develop a long-term plan for the Artists Shanties Program to continue to facilitate opportunities for the public to interact with members of the creative economy via Town-run programs that engage the public and artists. Mid-term Planning & Development Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Tourism Fund State grants GOAL 10 Coordinate opportunities to promote place-based arts and culture. 304Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Targeted Action Plan Plan Implementation Implementation of the Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP) will ultimately be controlled through the Town Council. The implementation process will entail robust collaboration with Town Boards, Committees, and Commissions, Town Departments, as well as other Town organiza- tions. The Town Council will be responsible for identifying annual priorities and overseeing implementation through its Strategic Plan. The Planning Board will play a key role in implementing the LCP, particularly the elements related to land use policy and ordinance revisions recommended by the LCP. The Board also will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of the LCP and authoring an annual report to the Town Council on steps taken to achieve the Town Council Strategic Plan through actions defined in the LCP. To assist in understanding the process through which the Town will implement action items, a diagram depicting the relationship between the LCP, Town Council Strategic Plan, and the Planning Board can be found on the following page. The LCP Action Plan assigns timeframes and parties responsible for undertaking actions to ensure that the LCP is successfully implemented. The Planning Board, with staff support from the Planning and Development Department, will present a report on the implementation on an annual basis. • The Planning Department will contact relevant departments on an annual basis to get an appraisal of the status of action items assigned to each department. • Information from the various departments on action items will be presented to the Planning Board, who will review and provide a written report to the Town Council giving the status of the LCP. • The Town will include results of the written report to Town Council in the Annual Report. This will include publishing reports on imple- mentation progress to report to the public on progress in achieving the community’s goals. 305Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Plan Implementation Planning BoardReport to Council& Design ProjectsConcentrated PlanningPlan / Ot h e r F u n d in gCapital Im p r o v e m e n tI mp le m e ntation T o w n C o u n c i l S tr a t e g i c P lan Local C o m p r e h e n s i vePlan Actio n P r i o r i t i esThe Local Comprehensive Plan informs the development of the Town Council Strategic Plan, and in turn the Town Council monitors the LCP to ensure the action plan is being imlpemented. 306Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Plan Implementation Appendix 307Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Glossary A ACEC Area of Critical Environmental Concern ACS American Community Survey ADA Americans with Disabilities Act AMI Area Median Income APCC Association to Preserve Cape Cod B BACC Barnstable Adult Community Center BCD Barnstable County Dredge BCWC Barnstable Clean Water Coalition BHA Barnstable Housing Authority BHC Barnstable Historical Commission BMPs Best Management Practices C CCBDS Cape Cod Bay Disposal Site CCRTA Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority CDP Comprehensive Dredge Plan CIP Capital Improvement Program CIWB Cape & Islands Workforce Board CNLs Critical Natural Landscapes C.O.M.M. Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills Fire District CPA Community Preservation Act CPC Community Preservation Committee CWMP Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan 308Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix D DART Dial-a-ride services, Smart DCPC District of Critical Planning Concern DEP Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection DHCD Department of Housing and Community Development [PG 43 Community Systems] DPW Department of Public Works DWP Drinking Water Program E EJ Environmental Justice EOLWD Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development EPA Environmental Protection Agency ESL English is a second language F FAA Federal Aviation Administration G GAC Granular Activated Carbon GHGs Greenhouse Gas Emissions GIS Geographic Information Systems GIZ Growth Incentive Zone GSI Green Stormwater Infrastructure H HAC Housing Assistance Corporation HHDC Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District Commission HMIS Homeless Management Information System HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning HYCC Hyannis Youth Community Center 309Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix I I/A Innovative/Alternative Systems IVLVR Improvement Value to Land Value Ratios IWPA Interim Wellhead Protection Areas L LCP Local Comprehensive Plan LCPC Local Comprehensive Planning Committee LHCs Local historical commissions LQ Location quotients M MassDOT Massachusetts Department of Transportation MCAS Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System MEP Massachusetts Estuaries Project MESA Massachusetts Endangered Species Act MGD Million Gallons Per Day M.G.L. Massachusetts General Law MS4 Massachusetts Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System General Permit MVP Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness N NHESP MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program NHLs National Historic Landmarks NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System O OKH Committee Old King's Highway Historic District Committee ORV Off-Road Vehicle OSRP Open Space and Recreation Plan O&M Operation and Maintenance 310Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix P PALS Cape Cod Commission’s Cape Cod Pond and Lake Stewardship PFAS Polyfluoroalkyl and Perfluoroalkyl Substances PFOA Perfluorooctanoic Acid PFOS Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid PIT Point in Time R RPOD Resource Protection Overlay District RSA Road Safety Audit S SHI Subsidized Housing Inventory SMAST University of Massachusetts Dartmouth School for Marine and Technology SSA Sole Source Aquifer SSI Supplemental Security Income T TDI Transformative Development Initiative District TIF Tax Increment Financing TMDLs Total Maximum Daily Loads U USDA United States Department of Agriculture’s W WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act WPCP Water Pollution Control Program 311Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Current Issues & Opportunities: Summary of Expert Presentations For each chapter of this plan, experts were invited to speak before the Local Comprehensive Plan Committee on issues of concern related to each topic. Land Use For Land Use, speakers included staff of the Town’s Department of Planning & Development. Department of Planning & Development Elizabeth Jenkins, Director of the Town’s Department of Planning & Development at the time of this meeting, started the presentation with an overview of the Local Comprehensive Plan. She explained that the plan looks into the Town’s future for the next 10–20 years. The plan analyzes existing condi- tions and then sets goals to manage complex issues and challenges, allocate funding, and be a general resource and guide for future decision making. Next, Ms. Jenkins provided an overview of the Land Use Chapter and described the progress made on implementation since 2010. The chapter sets land use policy for the Town overall as well as for the seven villages individually. Since 2010, Barnstable has incentivized development in certain areas, directing growth into the central downtown area and away from sensitive environmental areas. For example, the “Resource Protection Overlay” continues to require lots of at least two acres in much of the less-developed areas of town. The land use chapter is organized around several specific areas with their own land use needs: • The Growth Incentive Zone (GIZ) reauthorized in 2018 and centered around downtown Hyannis, streamlines permitting for infrastructure, development, and redevelopment in this area. On top of these incentives, the Town recently adopted zoning revisions for Downtown Hyannis, making it easier to build multi-family housing and mixed-use development. • Regional Economic Center: Centered around the auto-oriented shopping plazas and industrial uses north of Hyannis, this area presents an opportunity for mixed use, redevelopment, and higher residential density. • Village Centers: Each village center is different and suitable for various levels of development, redevelop- ment, and/or preservation to help maintain businesses, a traditional mix of uses, and vibrant community centers. Since 2010, several of the village centers have undergone zoning changes to achieve these goals, including standards that prohibit the use of standard corporate branding and signage. 312Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix • Residential Areas: These areas encompass a majority of the Town’s land area and include the “Resource Protection Overlay” which continues to require lots of at least two acres in these less-developed areas of town. In general, these areas are not designated for growth. The intent is to manage existing development, actively guide redevelopment, and plan for necessary capital improvements. One recent change is the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance (2021) which allows ADUs by right as year-round rentals. This can provide housing diversity in these residential areas without significantly changing their character or straining the capacity of the natural environment. • Commercial Nodes: This includes areas of commercial uses outside the Regional Economic Center, GIZ, and Village Centers, including West Main Street, portions of the Route 28 corridor, the Route 6 interchange, the area around the Transfer Station area, and the Yarmouth Road triangle. Recent changes to these areas include amendments to the HB zoning district and the expansion of the B and HB zoning districts along Route 132. • Maritime Areas: These areas include the land around and supporting the Town’s several harbors including Barnstable Harbor, Hyannis Harbor, and Osterville (West Bay). The intent is to ensure that development and redevelopment in these areas ensure the ongoing viability of water dependent uses. Ms. Jenkins gave a brief update on the progress made since 2010 in expanding and protecting natural areas and open space. Between 2010 and 2023, the Town added 562 acres of protected open space and 1,846 acres of recreational open space. Finally, Ms. Jenkins reviewed the Town’s Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP), which was adopted in 2020. The CWMP is critical for planning future growth and development as well as conservation, as it lays out a multi-decade approach to expand the Town’s public sewer service, among other things. 313Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Housing For Housing, Judi Barrett of Barrett Planning Group LLC spoke to the Committee. Barrett Planning Group LLC Judi commenced her presentation focusing on housing statewide and then narrowed into Barnstable County and more specifically the Town of Barnstable. Statewide • The shortage of affordable housing costs the American economy about $2 trillion a year in lower wages and productivity • Statewide there is a goal to create 200,000 homes including 40,000 affordable homes and 20,000 deeply affordably homes by 2030The affordable housing crisis is nationwide conversation that is exacerbated in states including California, New York and Massachusetts • There are many partnerships focused on housing nationally including American Planning Association, ARPA, Urban Land Institute, National Low-Income Housing Coalition, National Association of Realtors, National Homebuilders Association and Urban Institute • Even though housing is an active conversation, it is still the third rail of Planning Massachusetts • The state has the Affordable Homes Act which promotes a massive investment in housing production and preservation including: • Creating 40,000 homes, including 22,000 new homes for low-income households and 12,000 new homes for middle-income households • Preserving and rehabilitating homes and coordinating resiliency and accessibility improvements to existing housing stock • $1.6 billion to repair and modernize the state’s more than 43,000 public housing units including decarbonization • Funding to support alternative forms of rental housing for people experiencing homelessness, housing for seniors and veterans, and transitional units for substance abuse recovery • Proposed local option real estate transaction fee of 0.5% to 2% on the portion of a property sales over $1 million, or the county median home sale price • Make inclusionary zoning easier to adopt and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as of right • Homeowernship Tax Credit to produce homes affordable to first-time homebuyers at/below 120% AMI • There is a focus on Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) communities located on the outskirts of Boston for prioritizing multi-family housing but communities beyond Boston need housing as well 314Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix • Details are being coordinated for the Seasonal Community designation for communities with variations in housing occupancy over the course of a year with the intent to program housing funds in a way that is targeted to the needs of a particular region like Cape Cod Cape Cod • 47% of jobs on Cape Cod are performed by individuals who do not live in the region and a third of our workforce crosses the Bourne and Sagamore bridges each day • 80% of Cape Cod’s housing is classified as single-family homes which does not offer the variety of housing types and prices to support a vibrant local workforce • There is a disconnect in the housing market on the Cape between the cost to buy a house and income level. Some of the key ideas defined within the Cape Cod Commission’s draft Regional Housing Strategy include generating a greater variety of housing, supporting the year-round popula- tion, fostering redevelopment and preservation of existing development, coordinating housing and infrastructure and building support for housing through education • Barnstable County is seeking to set up a regional housing services office Town of Barnstable • Judi captured the mean salary pulling data specific to Barnstable for several careers and defined applicable monthly rent limit acknowledging high rental rates and inquiring whether housing could be acquired in Barnstable: • The mean salary for an elementary school teacher is $79,920 which equates to a monthly rent limit of not more than $1,999 (30% of monthly gross income) for rent including utilities • The mean salary for a plumber is $69,070 which equates to a monthly rent limit of not more than $1,727 (30% of monthly gross income) for rent including utilities • The mean salary for a home health aide is $36,170 which equates to a monthly rent limit of not more than $904 (30% of monthly gross income) for rent including utilities • The mean salary for a substance abuse counselor is $68,240 which equates to a monthly rent limit of not more than $1,706 (30% of monthly gross income) for rent including utilities • The mean salary for a restaurant chef is $40,610 which equates to a monthly rent limit of not more than $1,015 (30% of monthly gross income) for rent including utilities Judi spoke to how housing fits into the Local Comprehensive Plan and reflected on achievements for housing in Barnstable. Relation to the Local Comprehensive Plan • The Local Comprehensive Plan establishes a land use policy and guides community design providing insight for fundamental land use questions including what types of housing is allowed, where it is allowed and how easy it is to develop housing • The Plan guides Town leadership with regard to future investments including in infrastructure, staff capacity, and local and federal housing funding opportunities 315Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Housing Achievements in Barnstable • Zoning changes to enable housing development • Accessory Dwelling Units allowed as of right • Inclusionary affordable housing requirements • Complete Streets Policy Lastly, Judi provided the Committee with critical questions and insight for effective strategies related to housing for consideration. Critical Questions • How should Barnstable continue to align its housing objectives and land use policies? • How should Barnstable address attainability while also recognizing and targeting investments in decent, year-round housing for the lower-wage workers on whom the economy depends? • If the local option real estate transaction fee passes, what should the Town’s investment priorities be? • How should Barnstable make a wider range of year-round housing choices available throughout the town while respecting the mix of place types that exist here? Effective Strategies • Engage the most affected people in your community • Consider an annual housing summit annually to review achievements and their effectiveness • Build a political coalition • Train community advocates to speak at meetings • Tailor housing trust finds to align with regional, and state programs • Build working relationships with competent developers • Chapter 40B is your friend, not your enemy 316Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Natural Resources For Natural Resources, speakers included Andrew Gottlieb, Executive Director of the Association to Protect Cape Cod (APCC) and staff of the Town’s Department of Natural Resources. Association to Protect Cape Cod Mr. Gottlieb focused his remarks on the issue of water quality. APCC conducts an annual evaluation of water quality throughout Cape Cod. State of the Waters: Cape Cod 2023 Report indicates that about 90 percent of estuaries on Cape Cod had poor water quality in one or more locations and at one or more points in time during that year. This was up from 68 percent five years previously. According to Mr. Gottlieb, the primary culprits for this poor water quality are septic system waste (which pollutes water with unhealthy levels of nitrogen), increased severity of storms, and heat/drought. There is not much people can do about the weather, but we can help control the nutrient loads of our water. Particularly in the summer months, when the population swells, there are more people using septic systems and more leaching of septic waste into the ground. Even very modern septic systems are inadequate to remove wastewater pollutants, like nitrogen, to a level where they are not further degrading the environment and water quality. Mr. Gottlieb praised the Town for investing in modern sewer systems and for working to expand the existing network. However, he noted that water quality will continue to decline during the decades it will take to fully build out the public sewer network. On top of estuaries, APCC tracks the health of 150 of the approximately 890 lakes and ponds on Cape Cod. About 39 percent of these ponds report poor water quality in any given year. Approximately 50 percent of these water bodies are marginal—right on the tipping point of poor water quality. Sometimes, one heavy rainstorm is all it takes to tip the balance. To date, the health of coastal waters and estuaries has been the priority, but equal attention should be paid to ponds and other inland freshwater. Mr. Gottlieb noted that five of the 21 water suppliers on Cape Cod are in Barnstable. Water quality is good, but PFAS is now present in nearly half of the Cape’s water supply systems. While the levels are still below what the State of Massachusetts considers acceptable, this is something the whole region will continue to monitor. Mr. Gottlieb pointed to two recent APCC studies that can help guide development and conservation in Barnstable and across the Cape. Grow Smart Cape Cod, a partnership with the Housing Assistance Corporation, analyzes the most important habitat across the Cape to preserve and the areas that might be more appropriate for denser housing development or redevelopment. Hanging in the Balance, a follow up report, analyzes the value of the remaining 14 percent of Cape Cod’s land area that is undeveloped and unprotected. Mr. Gottlieb noted that if this remaining land is developed into large-lot residential, like much of the rest of the Cape has been, the community can only expect to exacerbate existing problems. Mr. Gottlieb also encouraged everyone in the community t stop using fertilizer, another major source of nitrogen and other nutrient loading. 317Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Town of Barnstable Division of Natural Resources Staff from the Town’s Division of Natural Resources presented a summary of what they do and what their key concerns are for the Town’s natural resources. Natural Resources staff are in charge of shell- fish, management of Sandy Neck, enforcement officers, herring runs, hunting and freshwater fishing, domestic animal control, wildlife and endangered species protection. They also play an important role in water quality, open space management, land and ponds management, wetlands, stormwater, and groundwater protection. Staff noted that over the decades, they have witnessed first hand the degradation of natural resources, including degrading water quality, increased algal blooms, loss of fishing and swimming opportunities, loss of habitat, and an increase in damaging storms. Staff does a great deal to combat these issues, and described their efforts around preserving fish runs, stocking of fish ponds, building of habitat support for birds, shellfish propagation, managing of local aquaculture, protection of habitat and resiliency of infrastructure at Sandy Neck, and more. Natural Resources staff also provided a list of priority actions which have been incorporated into this plan. 318Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Facilities & Infrastructure For Facilities & Infrastructure, speakers included Thomas Cahir, Administrator of the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) and staff of the Town’s Department of Public Works (DPW) including Daniel Santos, Director of Public Works and Griffin Beaudoin, Town Engineer. Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority Mr. Cahir explained that the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) is responsible for transit service in 15 towns across the Cape. There is a fixed route bus service in all 15 towns, with two major lines and two minor lines servicing Barnstable. The Authority also provides ADA service for eligible people within ¾ mile of fixed routes, and its Dial-a-Ride program serves 600+/- trips each day. The relatively new SMART DART app is meant to take care of “last mile” service to get people to places the fixed routes do not reach. The Cape is split into seven zones for SMART DART rides. Other services include a bus with service to Boston areas hospitals, a free summertime trolley, and the Cape Flyer train that provides weekend services coordinated with ferry services out of Hyannis. Mr. Cahir described some of the most pressing transportation-related needs and issues facing Barnstable and the region. • He noted that transportation is an important support for addressing the housing crisis. CCRTA meets with developers, the Cape Cod Commission, and local planning staff to coordinate transit routes and investments with proposed development. • Barnstable County has among the highest average age of any place in the country. Over 40% of the year-round population is over the age of 60. Older adult mobility is very important, and fares are now free for everyone over 60. • CCRTA is aiming for a future where a single “Go Card” would be integrated with all transit services in Massachusetts, including buses, trains, ferries, and more. • There is a great need to transition away from fossil fuels and towards an electric vehicle fleet, and this is part of CCRTA’s 10-year Strategic Plan and 5-year Capital Plan. CCRTA has 15 electric vehicles so far and is looking to expand this along with a better network of EV charging stations. This is an issue for tourists who want to drive here with electric vehicles but do not feel confident there are enough places for them to charge. CCRTA is currently working in partnership with the Airport to develop a microgrid project there. They are also partnering with local schools that are offering training in EV repair and maintenance. • Signal prioritization for transit is something CCRTA would like to explore. Autonomous vehicles may seem like a long-term concern, but they are currently being used for taxi service in markets throughout the country. It will be important to explore whether autonomous vehicles are a good fit for Cape Cod, and if so, to make sure they are regulated safely. 319Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Barnstable Department of Public Works Mr. Santos and Mr. Beaudoin took turns describing the current responsibilities and needs of the Town related to services and infrastructure. They noted that DPW is responsible for three major categories of tasks: 1. Maintenance 2. Horizontal (Engineering)—roads, marinas, utilities, etc. including all the sewer extension work proposed in the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) 3. Vertical (Architecture)—Buildings, playground equipment, etc. Barnstable has the 4th largest roadway network in Massachusetts, based on road miles, which takes a lot of planning and coordination (as well as time and money) to maintain. This includes maintenance of sidewalks. On top of public roads, there is a large system of private roads. Unfortunately, private roads can often go into disrepair and the property owners need help. Consequently, the Town has established a system for the temporary repair of private roads. If at least 51% of a street’s abutters agree, they can petition the Town to appropriate funds to pay for street repairs. The residents then pay the Town back over the course of a two-to-three-year payment plan. DPW staff explained the State’s Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and the Barnstable projects that are currently on the list. These are the major transportation projects the state will be funding in Barnstable over the next five or so years, and include resurfacing of Route 6, construction of a shared use path along Bearses Way, Park and Ride facility expansion, and Cape Cod Rail Trail extension. The Town aims to take good care of existing infrastructure, because regular investments in repair tend to be much less expensive than having to replace infrastructure that is beyond repair. Annual Funds are used to cover regular maintenance. The Capital Improvement Program is used for larger, multi-year projects that are more complex than annual maintenance but smaller than the projects eligible for the TIP. Mr. Santos and Mr. Beaudoin described some of the most pressing infrastructure-related needs and issues facing Barnstable and the region. • DPW uses crash data to prioritize intersection upgrades, such as street lighting, crosswalks, road diets, etc. (noting that the Fire Districts are in charge of most lights on utility poles). DPW is also prioritizing Capital Improvement Projects that help implement the Town’s Complete Streets vision. • The Cape Cod Rail Trail will ultimately cross the entire Town from east to west. This is currently in the engineering phase of development. • The Town is responsible for over 4,000 catch basins and has a cleaning and maintenance schedule for all of them. As storms become more frequent and severe, this infrastructure can be inadequate, leading to flooding. • Barnstable has to meet strict federal requirements in order for its Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (or MS4) permit to remain in compliance. Currently, there is no permit for stormwater, and DPW is working to meet this federal requirement. • Due to more frequent and severe storms brought on by climate change, drainage can be inadequate. 320Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix DPW is working on revised standards for roadway drainage that can better handle such storms as well as raising low lying roads. In some cases, they may need to request easements or buy more land to add to the right of way. • DPW maintains a list of roads and bridges with the highest priority for repairs. The Town owns seven bridges that span at least 20 feet. • DPW is responsible for bulkhead repair, revetments, breakwaters, dams, and barrier beaches. DPW staff discussed the erosion of dunes and strategies for replenishment, as well as the details of the Town’s Comprehensive Dredge Plan. • Some of the Town’s water infrastructure is located outdoors and must be shut off during cold winters. Capital projects are generally paid for by rate payers. • Maintenance of existing wastewater infrastructure is a big issue—there are 28 pump stations all in need of regular maintenance. The Town’s treatment plant needs improvement as described in the CWMP. DPW has staff and non-profit volunteers who monitor water quality in ponds. This is done in all the great ponds (10+ acres) and some of the smaller ones. The Capital Projects budget is used to provide treatment for impaired waters. Sometimes sewering and wastewater treatment are the only effective solutions. DPW has a hard time hiring engineers on Cape Cod. There are a lot of vacancies in staff positions. DPW does not have oversight over the independent water districts in town, but they do collaborate and share advice. Finally, DPW is directly involved in helping the Town plan for future development population, at basically every level. Facility priorities follow projected needs. 321Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Economic Development For Economic Development, speakers included Kyle Pedicini, Community & Economic Development Planner from the Town’s Planning & Development Department (at the time of this meeting) and Paul Niedzwiecki, Chief Executive Officer of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce. Barnstable Planning & Development Department Mr. Pedicini began with a discussion of Barnstable’s economic development goals and recent achieve- ments related to economic development. These goals include creating more jobs and more job variety, keeping existing businesses and attracting new ones, cultivating a better quality of life for residents, encouraging more productive use of property, promoting community assets, making and selling more local products, attracting more skilled workers to the community, and fostering local ownership. He stated that in recent years, the Town has incentivized development and investment by streamlining the permitting process, creating incentives, updating and amending zoning to encourage different types of development, supporting the arts economy, and marketing resources and opportunities through BusinessBarnstable.com. Other recent economic development history includes the recent redevelop- ment of Capetown Plaza and establishment of the Hyannis Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) District in 2022. Mr. Pedicini detailed some of the main issues and opportunities impacting economic development in Barnstable: • He noted that economic development is closely tied to housing challenges. Out of reach housing prices have resulted in a lack of workforce. Wages in Barnstable are not keeping up with housing prices. • The seasonal population of Barnstable means there are seasonal demand fluctuations. The economy is highly dependent on tourism industry, which is very sensitive to global economic trends. • There is a lack of high-paying industries such as STEM and manufacturing. • Much of the available land in Barnstable has already been developed. As a result, there is a shortage of large tracts of land that would be needed for agriculture or manufacturing. • There are limited public transportation options in Barnstable meaning the workforce is largely dependent on cars. He also described several key opportunities for the Town to foster economic growth: • The older population’s high demand for medical services represents an opportunity to attract more medical uses with good jobs. 322Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix • The Blue Economy represents an opportunity to protect the environment while providing jobs. Barnstable ranked 4th in the state in 2018 in total commercial fishing vessel value per community, and the Town is exploring ways to capture more of this economic value through a fishing pier or food processing plant. The Town’s natural resources and polluted estuaries can provide a setting for the development of new clean water technologies. • There is demand for a sports facility with indoor fields and conference space. This represents an opportunity to attract visitors outside of peak season and recapture the economic value the region currently loses when kids are forced to play off-cape due to the lack of facilities. • Like many other Cape towns, Barnstable has become an attractive work-from-home location due to the COVID shift to more remote work. Broadband expansion and improvements will be integral in capitalizing on this opportunity to attract and keep additional year-round residents. • There are many strong community partners in Barnstable including Hyannis Main Street BID and other business support organizations such as E4All and Love Live Local. Mr. Pedicini’s presentation concluded with a discussion of tools and programs in other communities that have successfully supported economic development and possible next steps for Barnstable. Examples for other communities included the Economic Development & Industrial Corporation in Falmouth, redevelopment authorities in Plymouth and Wareham, Provincetown and Yarmouth Tourism Funds, the “Restaurant Row” Program in Winston Salem, and the Berkshire Community Land Trust. Next steps for Barnstable may include the expansion of broadband, planning and development in and around Hyannis Harbor, the Great Streets Hyannis Project, and the creation of a Downtown Hyannis District Improvement Financing Program. Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce Mr. Niedzwiecki started his presentation with an overview of Cape Cod’s residents and economy, highlighting the differences between the Cape and the state. He noted that of the 229,000 year-round residents, 34% are 65 or older (compared to 18 percent statewide). Eighty percent of the homes in the region are detached single-family, and 36% of homes are used seasonally (compared to 4% statewide). The labor force participation rate on Cape Cod is 59% compared to 67% for Massachusetts overall. Median annual earnings are also lower for the region compared to the state. Mr. Niedzwiecki argued the key regional challenges, including climate change, housing, water quality, and infrastructure are all economic issues facing Barnstable and other Cape communities. • Climate change and its present and future impacts affect every aspect of Cape Cod’s natural, built, and community systems. Rising temperatures and sea levels threaten crucial aspects of Barnstable’s economy, including water quality, roads, beaches, local businesses, and commercial properties. Nearly 20 percent of the region is in the FEMA Special Flood Hazard Zone, corresponding to $16 billion in total assessed property value at risk. 323Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix • The projected impacts to roadways alone are expected to have substantial economic consequences due to damaged roads and buildings, lost tax revenue, reduced tourism, and decreased land values. Through 2100, damage and losses due to sea level rise and storm surge could exceed $50 billion. • Mr. Neidzweicki explained that essential infrastructure improvements on local roads and bridges, wastewater and stormwater systems, and energy grids will be vital for bolstering resilience in the face of ongoing climate challenges. • With a limited supply of rentals and an overwhelming dominance of single-family homes, the cost of housing remains high and continues to rise. An annual income of $210,000 is needed to affordably buy a median priced single-family home on Cape Cod, yet the area median household income is only $90,500. Moreover, wages are not keeping up with rising prices; between 2019 and 2023 median sales prices for single-family homes on Cape Cod increased at nearly 3 times the rate of average weekly wages. • Additionally, the housing supply is inefficient; the estimated housing demand is projected to outpace supply by 11,000 to nearly 22,000 housing units by 2035. Missing middle housing types are needed to address these housing challenges, yet only 2% of the region is zoned to allow housing develop- ments with more than two units to be built by right. Mr. Niedzwiecki concluded his presentation with a discussion of two of Cape Cod’s opportunities for economic development: the Blue Economy and tourism economy. The Blue Economy represents an opportunity to balance economic and environmental health, create a new regional identity focused on pride in Cape Cod’s coastal resources, and support a sustainable year-round economy for residents. The region already has a number of thriving Blue Economy industries and businesses and has the potential to further capitalize on sectors like fishing, aquaculture, renewable energy, where Cape Cod has an advantage over other areas. The Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce established the Cape Cod Blue Economy Foundation in 2017 to support the growth of the region’s blue economy. The Cape Cod tourism economy shapes the region’s identity, economy, and daily lives of residents and business owners, with over 5 million visiting every year. Tourism has a large impact on the labor force: employment on Cape Cod increases by an average of 33% from winter to summer and 4 out of 5 of the Cape’s top industries are directly linked to the tourism economy. The Cape Cod Chamber is exploring additional ways to leverage tourism activity to help businesses succeed. The tourism economy on Cape Cod is resilient and has the building blocks to become a more year-round economy. There is significant opportunity to expand off-season tourism activity; since 2021, data has shown steady growth in both occupancy and visitation during shoulder season months. However, Mr. Niedzwiecki pointed out that the tourism economy also faces significant challenges including, limited labor supply (which is directly tied to the lack of affordable housing and childcare), needed infrastructure improvements (bridge replacements in particular), and increased competition. 324Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Culture, Heritage and Design For Culture, Heritage and Design, speakers included Melissa Chartrand, Barnstable’s Arts and Culture Coordinator, working out of the Community Development Department. Speaking on the subject of historic preservation and community heritage was Bob Frazee, Chair of the Barnstable Historical Commission. Supporting Arts & Culture in Barnstable Ms. Chartrand noted that Barnstable has long recognized the importance of arts and culture as key drivers of the local economy and important community connectors that are essential to a dynamic, year-round economy. She manages several town-run arts programs and works with a variety of individ- uals, businesses and community groups to promote arts and culture programs and projects in town. She supports marketing efforts for all of the cultural gems in the seven villages through artsbarnstable. com and on social media @artsbarnstable. The Arts & Culture Coordinator work withs other town departments such as marine & environmental affairs to weave art experiences together with natural resources, including artist beach excursions that provide a time to connect and be inspired by the Town’s natural beauty. She also works with cultural district partners to provide support that allows thousands to attend free festivals and concerts, visit museums, attend theatrical performances, and experience a wide variety of special events and cultural happenings throughout the year. Ms. Chartrand highlighted recent accomplishments that include a series of arts-oriented initiatives designed to support the creative sector and energize the local economy. These include designation in 2012 of the first Cultural District on Cape Cod (and just the sixth in the state), Hyannis HyArts. This was followed by creation of the Barnstable Village Cultural District in 2014. The HyArts district incorporated the HyArts Shanty Program, a waterfront incubator for Cape Cod artists. Launched in May 2005 with 7 shanties and 15 artists, the program now includes 12 shanties in 2 locations along Walkway to the Sea in Hyannis and supports over 85 cape cod artists from May through November. Cape cod artists rotate throughout the season so every week there are new and returning artists. Over 80,000 visitors pass through each season, generating annual sales totaling more than $300,000. The program allows artists to sell their work while improving business and marketing skills that can help them move up into their own retail space or find gallery representation. Meanwhile visitors to the arts shanties support local shops, restaurants, boat tours, museums and more. The success of the arts shanties has inspired at least two other Cape towns to replicate the effort. The HyArts Cultural District further supports local artists with two town-owned live-work properties at 46 and 50 Pearl Street. In addition to providing a home for Barnstable’s Artist-in-Residence program, the HyArts Campus includes shared studio/gallery space in the Guyer Barn and the South Street Garage Studio. This vitality of the area is bolstered with outdoor performing arts spaces, a historical walking trail, sponsored photo, story and gallery walks, and a series of special events. 325Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Ms. Chartrand noted some of the challenges that come with the Cultural Districts, including the cost of maintaining buildings and other physical infrastructure, as well as supporting programming in a seasonal economy. Yet she also noted the opportunity to enhance Barnstable’s attractiveness as a year-round cultural destination. Building on past success, this could include encouraging additional artists residences, studios, classroom, gallery and performance space, along with related retail. Building and expanding relationships with partner organizations would support additional cultural programming and support shared marketing efforts to promote the Town’s seven villages and two cultural districts as a multi-faceted year-round cultural destination for residents and visitors. As this effort grows the town should consider creating a year-round performing arts/conference center to accommodate year-round events, and decide how best to attract investors to help make that happen. These efforts must be supported by continued physical improvements to downtown Hyannis and the waterfront, including improving visibility and connectivity to parking lots, enhancing performance spaces, and upgrading bathrooms and other public amenities with better lighting, accessibility and safety features. She noted the need for a brand and signage system reflective of Hyannis Main Street and the diversity of the community. This effort could integrate the arts to educate and inform on the complex issues of the day—water quality, climate resiliency, housing, transit, language isolation and food insecurity—while building Barnstable’s brand as a place where arts and culture thrive. Protecting Barnstable’s Heritage and Historic Resources Bob Frazee, Chair of the Barnstable Historical Commission, provided an update on recent efforts to protect and celebrate the Town’s heritage and historic resources. Accomplishments including a historic inventory of 1500 previously unsurveyed properties, including 80 new Form-B Inventories. The Town’s Demolition Delay bylaw was amended in 2013 to extend the period of demolition delay from 6 months to 18 months. He also noted adoption of the Downtown Hyannis Unified Design Regulations in 2023, providing for a review process supportive of the downtowns historic and maritime character. Mr. Frazee recommended that the Town pursues Certified Local Government (CLG) designation for the Barnstable Historical Commission. Theis would improve the Town’s standing for funding through the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC), which must reserve 10% of annual Federal historic preser- vation funding for CLGs, and further provides training and technical assistance to certified local historical commissions. Among the challenges of such certification is a potential increase in staff time to perform inventories and nominations, and more stringent requirements for Historical Commission members. Mr. Frazee recommended that the town consider nominating two town-owned properties for listing in the National Register of Historic Places: the ca1823 Burgess House in Marstons Mills, and the 95-year-old Cape Cod Airfield. He raised the challenges of protecting privately-owned historic buildings and neighborhoods elsewhere in town, noting the loss of historic sea captains’ homes on Pleasant Street. He suggested that the historic commission and other town departments work closely with the building department to identify buildings, like the sea captains’ houses, that are deteriorating to the point where they may be lost to redevelopment. He suggested the town consider creating a historic building protection fund to support preservation efforts, and highlighted the Providence Revolving Fund and the Town of Chatham’s “Protect Our Past” program as useful models. 326Town of Barnstable 2025 Local Comprehensive Plan | Appendix Mr. Frazee raised the issue of buildings being lost as a result of open space acquisitions, highlighting the ca1821 Charles Marston House and the ca 1887 Fuller Farm House, both in Marstons Mills, which were demolished as part of town open space projects. He suggested requiring that open space funding applicants be required to inventory all cultural and heritage resources on the land they wish to acquire, and to certify that proper care will be take to preserve these resources. In terms of future efforts, Mr. Frazee identified the need to broaden representation and engagement among members of the wider community, including reaching out to younger generations and others in Barnstable who may not actively participate on Town volunteer boards, including members of the Mashpee Wampanoag, African American, and Cape Verdean communities. Outreach methods must make it easier for single/working parents to become involved, including equipping and staffing town venues so that all meetings can be hybrid capable, and supporting both synchronous and asynchronous collaborative work environments. He outlined a series of recommendations for engaging young people, including historic preservation learning opportunities for teens - starting perhaps with Scout programs, museums, and special events. Programs with a special focus on hands-on learning with tangible results, such as boatbuilding and blacksmithing, are likely to be the most successful. Mr. Frazee recommended the town also work to shape how new development and redevelopment of older structures happens, pointing out several historic properties that are likely to be redeveloped. This includes incorporating massing, shapes, styles, color, materials and other architectural features from the historic built environment when designing new construction. 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