HomeMy WebLinkAboutAction Plan Responsible Parties MarkupTown of Barnstable, MA
06 Analysis of Needs 93
Cotuit Memorial Park, Credit: BSC Group
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 94
07 Ten-Year Action Plan
The Ten-Year Action Plan provides a comprehensive
framework to guide Barnstable’s efforts to protect and
enhance its natural, cultural, and recreational resources over
the coming decade. Rooted in the community’s vision and
informed by current land use patterns, environmental
challenges, and recreation needs, the Action Plan outlines a
prioritized set of strategies to balance growth with
conservation, expand access to open space, and improve
recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike. By
defining clear goals, timelines, and implementation partners,
the Action Plan serves as both a roadmap for decision-
makers and a living document that can adapt to evolving
community needs, ensuring Barnstable continues to
preserve its unique character while fostering a healthy,
vibrant, and resilient future.
Responsible Parties
Specific parties are identified for each action, but effective
implementation requires all Town departments, boards,
committees, and commissions to collaborate and
communicate closely to advance Open Space and
Recreation Plan goals and other Town priorities.
Acronyms for Responsible Parties
Assessing Division (AD)
Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC)
Barnstable Association for Recreational Shellfishing
(BARS)
Barnstable Clean Water Coalition (BCWC)
Barnstable Land Trust (BLT)
Barnstable Municipal Water Supply Board (BMWSB)
Barnstable Public Schools (BPS)
Conservation Commission (CC)
Cape Cod Commission (CCC)
Conservation Division (CD)
Community Preservation Committee (CPC)
Community Services Department (CSD)
Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc.
(CCCCT)
Department of Public Works (DPW)
Disability Commission (DC)
Fire and Water Districts (F/WD)
Golf Committee (GC)
Hyannis Water District (HWD)
Information Technology Division (IT)
Marine & Environmental Affairs Department (M&EAD)
Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG)
Open Space Committee (OSC)
Planning Board (PB)
Planning & Development Department (P&D)
Police Department (PD)
Procurement Office (PO) X
X
X
X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 95
Recreation Commission (RC)
Recreation Division (RD)
Town Attorney (TA)
Town Council (TC)
Town Manager (TM)
Potential Funding Sources
The Town has maintained a balanced budget while
continuing to provide essential services for its residents. To
remain fiscally responsible, it must continue to evaluate
expenditures, even for amenities that contribute to residents’
quality of life. As a result, the Town will need to pursue
additional funding for many of the following actions.
In addition to the Town’s general fund, potential funding
sources for park and open space improvements include:
MA Community Compact Cabinet (CCC) Best
Practices Compact
MA Community One Stop for Growth (One Stop)
(includes MassWorks)
Community Preservation Act (CPA)
MA Cooling Corridors Grant Program (CCGP)
MA Department of Conservation and Recreation
(DCR) MassTrails Grant Program, Urban and
Community Forestry Challenge
MA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
604(b) Water Quality Management Planning, Water
Utility Resilience Program, Clean Water State
Revolving Fund
MA Department of Transportation (MassDOT)
Chapter 90 Program, Transportation Improvement
Program, Complete Streets Program
District Improvement Financing (DIF) is a
Massachusetts program that allows municipalities to
designate a specific district and capture the new tax
revenue generated by growth and redevelopment
within that area. This dedicated revenue stream can
then be used to finance public infrastructure
improvements, such as streetscapes, utilities, and
parks, that further encourage private investment and
economic development in the same district. In 2024
the Town of Barnstable adopted a Hyannis District
Improvement Financing District, which will provide a
Barnstable Town Hall, Credit: BSC Group
X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 96
potential new funding stream for open space
improvements in downtown Hyannis.
MA Division of Conservation Services (DCS)
Conservation Partnership Grant, Community Forest
Program, Local Acquisitions of Natural Diversity Grant,
Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, DCS
Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for
Communities Grant, Outdoor Recreation Legacy
Partnership Grant Program, Drinking Water Supply
Protection Grant Program
MA Division of Ecological Restoration (DER)
Streamflow Restoration Programs, Dam Removal
Program, Urban River Revitalization Program,
Wetlands Restoration Program, Culvert Replacement
Municipal Assistance Grant Program
MA Executive Office of Energy and Environmental
Affairs (EEA) Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness
Program (MVP), Dam and Seawall Repair or Removal
Program, Environmental Trust General Grant, EEA
Planning Assistance Grant
MA Gateway Cities (GC) Parks Program, Greening
the Gateway Cities Program
MA Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) Inclusive
and Accessible Events Grants Program
MA Office on Disability (MOD) Municipal ADA
Improvement Grant
MassWildlife Habitat Management Grant Program
(MHMGP)
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) New
England Forests and Rivers Fund, National Coastal
Resilience Fund (NCRF), America’s Ecosystem
Restoration Initiative (AERI)
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) Community Development Block
Grant Funding (CDBG)
U.S. Department of Transportation Safe Streets and
Roads for All (SS4A)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act / Inflation
Reduction Act (IIJA / IRA) / Bipartisan Infrastructure
Law
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 97
Ten-Year Schedule
The Town of Barnstable understands that most projects are not completed within short time frames. Most of the actions identified
under each goal have multi-year projections, and in some cases, a pre-planning phase is followed by a one- or two-year break
while funding is secured.
Table 7-1: Ten-Year Action Plan
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Open Space & Wildlife Habitat
Goal 1: Protect and maintain the maximum feasible amount of open space to enhance environmental quality, expand recreational
opportunities, and preserve community character.
1.1. Develop a policy across Town
entities with defined criteria to
evaluate and prioritize
acquisition of private land for
conservation restriction. The
criteria shall include but not be
limited to the following:
Within proximity to
groundwater protection
areas.
Meets regulatory buffer
standards for wells within
MassDEP Zone I areas.
Protects drinking-water
recharge areas, water
quality, and future well
fields.
High TC, TM, P&D,
OSC, CD, CC,
DPW, M&EAD,
BLT, BCWC,
BMWSB,
APCC, CCCCT
CPA, DCS, DEP,
EEA, NFWF,
Town Budget
X X X
Planning & Development,
Community Preservation
Committee, and
Open Space Committee
Not applicable
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 98
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Preserves future marsh
habitat and allows dunes
and beaches to migrate
naturally.
Connects upland wildlife
corridors, with priority given
to parcels in Hyannis and
near marshes and ponds.
Adjacent to anadromous
fish runs.
Enhances floodplain
management and/or
potential for managed
retreat.
Adjacent to coastal resource
areas for public access and
resource protection.
Potential to provide
connections to existing
public pathways.
Opportunities to enhance
public access and remove
barriers to accessibility.
1.2. Coordinate an inventory of all
the Town’s recreation and open
space areas and amenities defining
existing status and priority
improvements.
Low P&D, OSC, CD
CC, RD, RC
CPA, EEA, Town
Budget
X X X
Recreation Commission,
and Recreation Division
Medium Not applicable
Move to top of list
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 99
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1.3. Create a public database of
properties in Barnstable with
conservation restrictions and
promote state’s Article 97 Natural
Resource Site Evaluation map
application.
Low CD, CC, OSC,
P&D
CPA, EEA, Town
Budget
X X X
1.4. Develop a policy for the Town
to exercise right of first refusal for
acquisition of land under Chapter
61, 61A, or 61B that is intended to be
converted to a non-chapter use.
Medium AD, P&D, TC,
TM
CPA, DCS, EEA,
Town Budget
X X X X X
Goal 2: Promote policy and regulatory measures to protect open space.
2.1. Evaluate the effectiveness of
the Town’s Open Space Residential
Development (“cluster”) ordinance
in preserving open space and
develop recommendations for its
improvement or revision.
Low P&D, PB, TC CCC, EEA, Town
Budget
X X
2.2. Develop Nature Guidelines to
provide a consistent framework
with best practices related to
integrating native plant
communities, stormwater
management, habitat connectivity,
and climate adaptation for public
and private properties.
Low OSC, CD, CC,
M&EAD
GC, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
Goal 3: Promote stewardship of protected open spaces through volunteer engagement and partnerships with community organizations.
3.1. Host inclusive volunteer
cleanup and stewardship events at
trailheads and beaches, paired with
educational signage and recycling
initiatives to promote cleanliness.
Medium CSD, DPW, CD,
RD, PD
CPA, DEP,
MOOR, Town
Budget
X X X X X X
Planning & Development
and GIS
Planning & Development
and Town Attorney
Planning & Development
and Open Space Committee
Planning & Development
Open Space Committtee
Medium
High
Medium
X
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 97
Ten-Year Schedule
The Town of Barnstable understands that most projects are not completed within short time frames. Most of the actions identified
under each goal have multi-year projections, and in some cases, a pre-planning phase is followed by a one- or two-year break
while funding is secured.
Table 7-1: Ten-Year Action Plan
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Open Space & Wildlife Habitat
Goal 1: Protect and maintain the maximum feasible amount of open space to enhance environmental quality, expand recreational
opportunities, and preserve community character.
1.1. Develop a policy across Town
entities with defined criteria to
evaluate and prioritize
acquisition of private land for
conservation restriction. The
criteria shall include but not be
limited to the following:
Within proximity to
groundwater protection
areas.
Meets regulatory buffer
standards for wells within
MassDEP Zone I areas.
Protects drinking-water
recharge areas, water
quality, and future well
fields.
High TC, TM, P&D,
OSC, CD, CC,
DPW, M&EAD,
BLT, BCWC,
BMWSB,
APCC, CCCCT
CPA, DCS, DEP,
EEA, NFWF,
Town Budget
X X X
Community Preservation
Committee, and Town
Attorney
Not applicable XMedium1.5 Require all town-owned land purchased for or used
for conservation or recreation be protected with a
conservation restriction.
X X X X X X X X X
2.3 Amend the regulatory agreement process to require
donation of public open space either through on-site
accommodation or a transfer of development rights
agreement.
Medium Planning & Development Not applicable X X X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 100
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
3.2. Pursue coordinated efforts to
eliminate roadside litter through
public education, village-based
initiatives, and partnerships with
business and tourism organizations.
Medium CSD, DPW DEP, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
Goal 4: Continue and expand ongoing maintenance of conservation areas.
4.1. Update the Town’s Wildland
Fire Preparedness Plan to include
the entire Town and implement
recommendations with specific
emphasis on habitat restoration.
Medium CD, CC,
M&EAD, F/WD,
BLT
MHMGP, Town
Budget
X X X X
4.2. Provide maintenance on any
historic ancient ways that provide
public access to trails and
conservation areas.
Medium CD, CC, DPW CPA, DCR, Town
Budget
X X X X
Goal 5: Coordinate open space protection measures with efforts to protect wildlife habitat and augment the Town’s green corridors and
spaces.
5.1. Continue to develop and
prioritize sites for green
infrastructure strategies to enhance
climate resiliency.
Medium P&D, TC, OSC,
CC
CCC, CDBG,
DEP, EEA MVP,
EPA
X X X X
5.2. Upgrade golf course facilities
and enhance environmental
practices to support habitat and
wildlife.
Medium GC, DPW CPA, NFWF,
Town Budget
X X X X X
Open Space Committee,
and Communications Not applicable
Conservation Division
MassWildlife Habitat
Management Grant Program
Department of Public
Works Community Preservation
Act
Planning & Development
and Department of Public
Works MA Municipal Vulnerability
Prepardeness Program, and Town Budget
Community Services
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation,
Community Preservation Act, and Town Budget
X X
X
3.2 Pursue coordinated efforts to eliminate litter in open space areas through partnerships with business and non-profit organizations, such as a “adopt a trail” or “adopt a conservation area” programs.
4.2 Provide maintenance on any historic ancient ways that provide public access to trails and conservation areas, and seek to re-establish any ancient ways with public access rights.
5.2 Enhance environmental practices at town golf courses to support habitat and wildlife through sustainable water use, habitat restoration efforts, planting of drought-resistant native vegetation, and reduced chemical application.
See suggested text below
See suggested text below
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 101
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
5.3. Prioritize tree planting and park
greening by continuing the Town’s
Greening the Gateway Cities Grant
program within greater Hyannis and
collaborate with the Town’s Tree
Warden to plant trees throughout
Town with a focus on high-use
open space and recreation sites,
and sites along roadways and multi-
use paths.
High DPW, CD, RD CCGP, CPA,
DCR, EEA MVP,
GC, Town
Budget
X X X
Recreation Facilities & Amenities
Goal 6: Provide diverse recreational opportunities and equitable access throughout Barnstable to meet current and future needs of all user
groups.
6.1. Plan, design, and construct new
or upgraded recreation amenities
such as splash pads, indoor and
outdoor pools, playgrounds,
basketball courts, and soccer cages
at strategic sites to meet year-round
demand, including the Hyannis
Youth & Community Center
grounds, Hamblin Pond, Veterans
Memorial Park, Hathaway’s Pond,
Former Marstons Mills Elementary
School Site, Ridgewood Park, and
potential new acquisitions.
Medium RD, P&D, DPW CPA, DCS, GC,
Town Budget
X X X X X X X X X
6.2. Develop a playground plan for
the town that includes all seven
villages. This plan should document
existing conditions and needs for
each village and include a list of
potential projects to increase
and/or upgrade playgrounds.
Medium RD, BPS, DPW CPA, DCS, MOD,
Town Budget
X X X X X
Planning & Development
and Tree Warden
MA Greening the Gateway
Cities, and Town Budget
Community Services, and
Department of Public
Works
Community Preservation Act,
MA Division of Conservation
Services, and Town Budget
Recreation Commission,
and Planning & Development
Community Preservation Act
High
X
High
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 102
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
6.3. Assess the availability of
recreational facilities and programs
in areas with significant
Environmental Justice populations
and determine whether additional
or modified programs and facilities
are needed.
Medium CS, P&D, RD CDBG, DCS, GC,
Town Budget
X X X
6.4. Create new loop walking trails
around the Barnstable Adult
Community Center to provide
outdoor recreational opportunities
for seniors.
Medium CD, CC, RD,
DPW, OSC
CDBG, CPA,
DCR, MOD,
Town Budget
X X X X
6.5. Develop parks and open space
for Hyannis to support the Growth
Incentive Zone land use objectives.
Medium P&D, RD, DPW CPA, DCR, DCS,
DIF, GC, Town
Budget
X X X X X
6.6. Implement open space and
recreation goals identified through
public engagement and design of
the former Marstons Mills
Elementary School site.
Medium P&D, RD, DPW CPA, DCS, GC,
Town Budget
X X X X X
6.7. Enhance amenities at the
Town’s existing dog park and
explore opportunities for an
additional dog park.
High RD, RC, CC,
DPW, M&EAD
CPA, DCS, Town
Budget
X X X X X X
6.8. Develop youth-oriented
mountain biking loops and ropes or
adventure course areas at
Hathaway’s Pond and/or the
Marstons Mills Pickleball Courts
area to diversify recreation
opportunities and engage teens.
Medium RD, DPW CPA, DCR, DCS,
Town Budget
X X X X X
Community Services and
Planning & Development Not applicable
Community Services Community Preservation Act,
MA Department of Conservation
and Recreation, and MA Office on Disability
Community Services and
Planning & Development
Community Preservation Act,
MA Department of Conservation
and Recreation, and Town Budget
Community Services and
Planning & Development
Community Preservation Act,
MA Division of Conservation
Services
Planning & Development
Department of Public Works
Community Preservaton Act,
MA Department of Conservation
Services and Town Budget
Community Services and
Department of Public
Works Community Preservaton Act,
MA Department of Conservation
Services, MA Department of
Conservation and Recreation,
and Town Budget
High
Medium
6.4 Create more outdoor recreation activities for seniors at the Barnstable Adult Community Center site such as bocce courts, shuffle boards, or lawn bowling.
See suggested text below
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 103
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
6.9. Attract and support the
development of an indoor
recreational facility through
completion of a feasibility study for
an indoor recreation facility to
obtain project costs and identify
possible locations.
Low RD, P&D, TC CPA, DCS, DIF,
GC, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X
6.10. Identify location for multi-use
passive recreation field in
Downtown Hyannis.
Medium RD, DPW CPA, DCS, GC,
Town Budget
X X X
6.11. Enhance and expand existing
park area at Kalmus Beach
including a new walking trail.
Low P&D, RD, DPW CDBG, CPA,
DCS, DCR, GC,
Town Budget
X X X
4.1.2. Upgrade and maintain the trail
system, bathhouse, and picnic area
at Hathaway’s Pond.
Low RD, DPW,
M&EAD
CDBG, CPA,
DCR, DCS, Town
Budget
X X X
Goal 7: Prioritize opportunities to protect land for farming and community gardens while balancing groundwater protection and supporting
locally grown produce.
7.1. Explore the impact of adopting a
Right to Farm bylaw.
Low CCC, Town
Budget
X X X
7.2. Work with Barnstable County
Cooperative Extension to support
farmers markets.
Low CSD CCC, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
7.3. Expand opportunities for
horticulture, including by increasing
the number of community garden
plots available to the public,
particularly in Environmental Justice
communities.
Medium CDBG, CCC,
Town Budget
X X X X
Planning & Development
and Community Services
MA Division of Conservation
Services
Planning & Development,
Community Services and
Department of Public Works Community Preservation Act
Medium
Community Preservation Act, and
MA Department of Conservation
and Recreation Planning & Development
and Department of Public
Works
Medium Department of Public
Works
Community Preservation Act, MA
Department of Conservation, and Recreation,
and Town Budget
Planning & Development
Planning & Development
Not applicable
Not applicable
Planning & Development
Community Preservation
Act
6.10 Identify locations for new multi-use passive recreation field in downtown Hyannis and/or seek upgrades at the field located at 116 High School Road.
See suggested text below
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 97
Ten-Year Schedule
The Town of Barnstable understands that most projects are not completed within short time frames. Most of the actions identified
under each goal have multi-year projections, and in some cases, a pre-planning phase is followed by a one- or two-year break
while funding is secured.
Table 7-1: Ten-Year Action Plan
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Open Space & Wildlife Habitat
Goal 1: Protect and maintain the maximum feasible amount of open space to enhance environmental quality, expand recreational
opportunities, and preserve community character.
1.1. Develop a policy across Town
entities with defined criteria to
evaluate and prioritize
acquisition of private land for
conservation restriction. The
criteria shall include but not be
limited to the following:
Within proximity to
groundwater protection
areas.
Meets regulatory buffer
standards for wells within
MassDEP Zone I areas.
Protects drinking-water
recharge areas, water
quality, and future well
fields.
High TC, TM, P&D,
OSC, CD, CC,
DPW, M&EAD,
BLT, BCWC,
BMWSB,
APCC, CCCCT
CPA, DCS, DEP,
EEA, NFWF,
Town Budget
X X X
Department of Public
Works and Community
Services
Community Preservation
Act
Medium6.13 Restore Lovells Beach in Cotuit through
environmentally sensitive vegetative management as a
recreational asset to residents.
X X X
6.14 Install new outdoor basketball courts in locations
that are easily accessible by the public (not on school
grounds).
Medium Community Services, and
Department of Public
Works
Community Preservation
Act
7.4 Promote measures to protect agricultural land in
perpetuity, such as developing educational materials
on the Agricultural Preservation Restriction program.
Low Open Space Committtee,
and Communications
Not applicable
X XX
X X X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 104
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Water Resources
Goal 8: Coordinate open space protection efforts with initiatives to protect freshwater and marine wetlands, and surface waters.
8.1. Support the strict enforcement
of regulations that protect coastal
and freshwater wetlands, including
no build and no disturb buffer zone
requirements.
High CD, CC, APCC,
CCCCT, OSC,
M&EAD
DER, EEA, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
8.2. Protect Town-owned land
surrounding Joshua’s Pond and
Micah’s Pond in Osterville with a
permanent conservation restriction
and enhance existing trails.
Low M&EAD, CD,
CC, P&D
CDBG, CPA,
DCR, Town
Budget
X X X
8.3. Maximize the ecological health
of the Town’s five herring runs.
Identify and map obstructions along
the herring runs.
Low CD, CC CPA, DER,
MHMGP, NFWF,
Town Budget
X X X
8.4. Continue to update water
treatment technology to address
regulatory mandates and emerging
and known contaminants.
High DPW, BCWC,
APCC
CDBG, DCS,
DEP, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
8.5. Continue to research the
feasibility and strategic options for
the Hyannis Water District to
increase ownership and control of
Zone I areas.
High DPW, HWD,
TA, BMWSB
DEP, DCS, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
8.6. Evaluate and, if necessary,
amend the Town’s Groundwater
Protection Overlay District to
strengthen the protection of the
zones contributing to public water
supplies.
High P&D, PB, DPW,
F/WD, BMWSB,
BCWC
CDBG, DEP, EEA,
Town Budget
X X X
Conservation Division
Not applicable
High Planning & Development,
and Town Attorney Community Preservation Act
Medium Department of Public Works
and Marine & Environmental
Affairs MassWildlife Habitat Management Grant Program, MA
Division of Ecological Restoration, and Town Budget
Department of Public
Works MA Department of Environmental
Protection, and Town Budget
Department of Public
Works
Not applicable
Planning & Development and,
Department of Public Works
Not applicable
X X
X X X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 105
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
8.7. Create new pathways on
watershed land to increase natural
surveillance by responsible public
users.
Low DPW, CD, CC CDBG, CPA,
DCR, One Stop,
Town Budget
X X X
8.8. Explore stricter regulations for
violators of outdoor water use
restrictions.
Low F/WD, BMWSB,
BCWC, APCC
DCS, DEP, Town
Budget
X X X
Goal 9: Plan and develop strategies to mitigate effects of climate change as it relates to open space.
9.1. Continue to study sea level rise
and prioritize implementation of
coastal resilience actions defined
within recent planning efforts
including the Hyannis Harbor
Master Plan and the Town’s Hazard
Mitigation.
High DPW, M&EAD,
CCC, APCC
CCC, EEA MVP,
Town Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
9.2. Evaluate the status of
completed tidal restoration projects
and use findings to develop best
practices for future tidal restoration.
High CD, M&EAD,
DPW, CC
DER, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
9.3. Explore opportunities to
enhance existing water bodies with
self-sustaining improvements, such
as a Coastal Mitigation Nursery.
Medium P&D, M&EAD,
CD, OSC
CPA, DEP, Town
Budget
X X
Goal 10: Pursue opportunities to enhance coastal and freshwater access.
10.1. Maintain Town Ways to Water,
including clarifying deeds and titles,
improvements and maintenance,
identifying grant opportunities,
enhancing parking facilities, and
pursuing new public access
opportunities.
Medium TC, TA, TM,
DPW, OSC,
CPC, M&EAD
CPA, DCR, DCS,
MOD, Town
Budget
X X X X
Medium Water Districts, and
Department of Public
Works
MA Department of Conservation
and Recreation, Community Preservation
Act, and Town Budget
Medium
Water Districts Not applicable
Planning & Development
and Department of Public
Works
MA Executive Office of Energy
and Environmental Affairs, and Town Budget
Marine & Environmental
Affairs, Department of
Public Works, and
Conservation Division
MA Division of Ecological Restoration
Marine & Environmental
Affairs, and Conservation
Division
MA Department of Environmental Protection,
and Town Budget
Asset Management,
Planning & Development,
and Department of Public
Works
MA Division of Conservation
Services, and Town Budget
8.8 Encourage water districts to explore graduated billing rates that charge higher rates to high-water users, such as was established by the Cotuit Water District.
See suggested text below
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 97
Ten-Year Schedule
The Town of Barnstable understands that most projects are not completed within short time frames. Most of the actions identified
under each goal have multi-year projections, and in some cases, a pre-planning phase is followed by a one- or two-year break
while funding is secured.
Table 7-1: Ten-Year Action Plan
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Open Space & Wildlife Habitat
Goal 1: Protect and maintain the maximum feasible amount of open space to enhance environmental quality, expand recreational
opportunities, and preserve community character.
1.1. Develop a policy across Town
entities with defined criteria to
evaluate and prioritize
acquisition of private land for
conservation restriction. The
criteria shall include but not be
limited to the following:
Within proximity to
groundwater protection
areas.
Meets regulatory buffer
standards for wells within
MassDEP Zone I areas.
Protects drinking-water
recharge areas, water
quality, and future well
fields.
High TC, TM, P&D,
OSC, CD, CC,
DPW, M&EAD,
BLT, BCWC,
BMWSB,
APCC, CCCCT
CPA, DCS, DEP,
EEA, NFWF,
Town Budget
X X X
Planning & Development,
and Community
Preservation Committee
Community Preservation
Act
Medium8.9 Explore opportunities to acquire open space along
the Hyannis waterfront in order to provide more public
access and support the working waterfront.
X X X
8.10 Explore opportunities to acquire cranberry bogs in
key locations in order to implement nitrogen reduction
efforts for neighboring water resources.
Medium Natural Resources,
and Community
Preservation Committeee
Community Preservation
Act
X X X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 106
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
10.2. Increase water access for
paddlers by identifying, designing,
and implementing new or improved
kayak and canoe launches with
adequate parking, signage, storage
racks, and shoreline protection.
Medium M&EAD, RD,
CD, DPW
CPA, DCS, Town
Budget
X X X
10.3. Inventory and analyze boat
ramps and parking areas with
nature-based solutions and
stormwater best management
practices to protect ponds and
estuaries, and incorporate
Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) -compliant dock and ramp
upgrades.
Medium M&EAD, DPW,
CD, CC, RD
CPA, MOD, Town
Budget, EPA
X X X X X
10.4. Support public shellfish
propagation programs and maintain
public access to designated
Shellfish Recreation Areas.
High M&EAD, BARS,
TM
MHMGP, NFWF,
Town Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
Connectivity & Accessibility
Goal 11: Coordinate planning for the Town’s greenway network to maximize opportunities for trailways, bikeways, Cape Cod Pathways, and
connections between open spaces.
11.1. Examine the Town’s existing
bikeway network plan and identify
priority projects in coordination with
the Town’s Complete Streets
Prioritization Plan.
Medium RD, P&D, DPW CPA, DCR, DCS,
MassDOT, Town
Budget
X X X X X X
11.2. Conduct research regarding
public access rights at key
connecting locations for the Cape
Cod Pathways Program in order to
complete the trail in Barnstable.
Low P&D, DPW,
OSC
DCR, MassDOT,
Town Budget
X X X X X
Department of Public
Works, and Community
Services
Community Preservation Act,
MA Division of Conservation
Services, and Town Budget
Department of Public
Works, and Marine &
Environmental Affairs
MA Office on Disability, and
Town Budget
Marine & Environmental
Affairs
Not applicable
Department of Public
Works
MA Department of Transportation,
MA Department of Conservation and
Recreation, and Town Budget
Medium
Planning & Development,
and Town Attorney Not applicable
X
X X
See suggested text below
10.3 Inventory and analyze boat ramps and parking areas for retrofits that include nature-based solutions and stormwater best management practices to protect ponds and estuaries, and incorporate Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) -compliant dock and ramp upgrades.
11.2 Conduct research regarding public access rights at key connecting locations and lost ancient ways in order to complete trail connections, including for the Cape Cod Pathways program.
See suggested text below
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 107
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11.3. Continue planning and design
for a connection to the regional
bikeway network through the
MassWildlife Hyannis Ponds
property, across Route 132, and into
Sandwich.
High P&D, DPW,
OSC, TA, CCC,
MassDOT, DCR
CPA, DCR,
MassDOT, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
11.4. Connect villages, parks, and
trailheads through a continuous
network of sidewalks and shared
use paths linking open spaces
through coordination with
Barnstable’s Complete Streets
initiative, including routes to
Hathaway’s Pond, Ridgewood Park,
Burgess Park, Veterans Memorial
Park, and Hamblin Pond.
High DPW, P&D DCR, MassDOT,
One Stop, SS4A,
Town Budget
X X X X X
11.5. Add bike infrastructure at open
space destinations by installing
secure bike racks, shade structures,
signage, and wayfinding at major
trailheads and beaches to
encourage non-motorized access.
Medium DPW, RD, CD CPA, DCS, Town
Budget
X X X X
11.6. Improve pedestrian safety and
comfort near parks and beaches by
adding sidewalks, crosswalks,
benches, shade structures, and refill
stations at major access points.
Medium DPW, RD, CD,
P&D
MassDOT
Complete
Streets, One
Stop, SS4A, CPA,
Town Budget
X X X X X X X
Department of Public
Works
Community Preservation Act,
and MassTrails
Planning & Development
and Department of Public
Works MA Department of Transportation, MassWorks,
MA Department of Conservation and
Recreation, U.S. Department of Transportation
Safe Streets and Roads for All, and Town Budget
Planning & Development
and Department of Public
Works Community Preservation Act,
MA Division of Conservation
Services, and Town Budget
Department of Public
Works
MA Department of Transportation, MassWorks,
U.S. Department of Transportation Safe Streets and Roads
for All, and Town Budget
See suggested text below
11.3 Continue planning and design for a connection to the regional bikeway network through the Cape Cod Rail Trail Phase 4 project into Sandwich.
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 108
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11.7. Implement a coordinated
Trailhead Safety and Management
Program, including routine
inspections for encampments,
clearer enforcement of regulations,
and enhanced lighting where
feasible.
Medium PD, CD, RC DCR, Town
Budget
X X X
11.8 Prioritize sidewalks amenities
during road construction projects
and implement new sidewalks
where feasible.
Low DPW, P&D MassDOT
Complete
Streets, One
Stop, SS4A, CPA,
Town Budget
X X X
Goal 12: Identify and implement priority Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements.
12.1. Evaluate the Town’s ADA Self
Evaluation and Transition Plan and
identify priority accessibility
improvements among the Town’s
beaches, parks, playgrounds,
municipal golf courses, and
recreational facilities.
High DPW, RD, CD,
DC
CCC, CPA, DCR,
MOD, Town
Budget
X X X
12.2. Develop and prioritize a list of
accessibility improvements at Ways
to Water sites and major
conservation and recreation areas.
Low TC, TA, TM,
DPW, OSC,
CPC, M&EAD
CDBG, CPA,
DCR, DCS, MOD,
Town Budget
X X X
12.3. Pursue Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG)
and other funding sources to
support accessibility improvements.
High DC, P&D, RD CCC, CDBG
CPA, DCR, MOD,
Town Budget
X X
12.4. Identify new locations for
adaptive mountain bike trails.
Low RD, DPW CDBG, CPA,
DCR, MOD,
Town Budget
X X X
Police, and Department
of Public Works Not applicable
Department of Public
Works MA Department of Transportation, MassWorks,
U.S. Department of Transportation Safe Streets and Roads
for All, and Town Budget
High
Community Services, and
Disability Commission
MA Office on Disability
Town Budget
High
Disability Commission Not applicable
Planning & Development,
and Department of Public
Works Community Development Block Grant and
MA Office on Disability
Medium Community Services, and
Open Space Committee
Not applicable
X
X X X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 109
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
12.5. Upgrade parking and access
at priority open spaces and water
access points by designing and
constructing expanded or
reconfigured parking areas that
include ADA spaces, bicycle racks,
and stormwater best management
practices.
High DPW, RD, CD CDBG, CPA,
DCS, MOD,
Town Budget
X X X
Communication & Marketing
Goal 13: Promote coordination and communication on community open space and recreation needs within Town government and among
stakeholder groups.
13.1. Coordinate implementation
through the Planning &
Development Department,
engaging municipal departments,
boards, and private stakeholder
groups in developing annual action
plans and reporting progress.
High P&D, CD, RD Town Budget X X X X X X X X X X
13.2. Convene regular meetings
with the water and fire districts,
conservation commission, and
private land trusts to review land
management, acquisition, and
protection priorities.
Medium CD, OSC,
F/WD, DPW,
BMWSB, BLT,
BCWC, APCC,
CCCCT
Town Budget X X X X X X X X X X
13.3. Coordinate an annual review
of the Open Space Plan by the
Open Space Committee to review
and report on progress of action
plan.
Low OSC, P&D CPA, EEA, Town
Budget
X X X X X X X X X X
Goal 14: Promote public awareness of and support for open space protection and enhancement of recreation resources.
Planning & Development
and Department of Public
Works
X
Planning & Development Not applicable
Planning & Development
Not applicable
High Planning & Development,
and Open Space Committee Not applicable
MA Office on Disability,
MA Division of
Conservation Services
and Town Budget
X
13.4
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 97
Ten-Year Schedule
The Town of Barnstable understands that most projects are not completed within short time frames. Most of the actions identified
under each goal have multi-year projections, and in some cases, a pre-planning phase is followed by a one- or two-year break
while funding is secured.
Table 7-1: Ten-Year Action Plan
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Open Space & Wildlife Habitat
Goal 1: Protect and maintain the maximum feasible amount of open space to enhance environmental quality, expand recreational
opportunities, and preserve community character.
1.1. Develop a policy across Town
entities with defined criteria to
evaluate and prioritize
acquisition of private land for
conservation restriction. The
criteria shall include but not be
limited to the following:
Within proximity to
groundwater protection
areas.
Meets regulatory buffer
standards for wells within
MassDEP Zone I areas.
Protects drinking-water
recharge areas, water
quality, and future well
fields.
High TC, TM, P&D,
OSC, CD, CC,
DPW, M&EAD,
BLT, BCWC,
BMWSB,
APCC, CCCCT
CPA, DCS, DEP,
EEA, NFWF,
Town Budget
X X X
GIS Not applicableMedium13.3 Continue to work on mapping trails in conservation
areas to inform public safety efforts, and add waypoints
where appropriate.
X X XX X X X X X X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 110
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
14.1. Educate and engage the
community through local media,
outreach, and public forums to
communicate the environmental,
aesthetic, and economic value of
open space protection.
High CSD, CD, RD,
OSC, P&D,
BLT, APCC,
CCCCT
Town Budget X X X X X X X X X X
14.2. Develop a comprehensive,
user-friendly web portal and printed
maps showing all open spaces,
amenities, rules, and accessibility
features, and update them annually.
High P&D, IT, RC,
CD, CC
CPA, MOD, Town
Budget
X X X
14.3. Provide public information to
landowners regarding opportunities
to preserve open spaces with
natural and scenic value through
conservation restrictions or Chapter
61 designations.
High CSD, OSC,
BLT, APCC,
CCCCT
DCS, Town
Budget
X X X X X
14.4. Develop an outreach and
communications plan to ensure
Environmental Justice populations
are aware of open space and
recreational facilities located
throughout town.
High CSD, P&D, CD,
RD
CDBG, DCS,
Town Budget
X X X
14.5. Install new signage along
roadways at walking trails to
increase visibility and awareness of
town’s open spaces.
Medium OSC, RD, CD,
CSD, DPW
CPA, Town
Budget
X X X
Planning & Development,
Open Space Committee,
and Communications
Not applicable
Planning & Development Not applicable
Planning & Development No applicable
Community Services, and
Communications No applicable
High
Planning & Development
and Department of Public
Works
Community Preservation Act
and Town Budget
X
X X
X
Town of Barnstable, MA
07 Ten-Year Action Plan 111
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
14.6. Develop an online reporting
form, accessible via QR code
signage at parks and playgrounds
townwide, to allow residents to
report maintenance, safety, or
accessibility concerns directly to
the Town staff.
Medium RD, IT CPA, Town
Budget
X X X
14.7. Implement a townwide pond
protection toolkit including
vegetated buffer standards, access
management, cyanobacteria
response, and public education
with information for near-term
projects.
Low CC, CD,
M&EAD, APCC,
BCWC, APCC
DEP, EEA, Town
Budget
X X X X
14.8. Develop educational materials
with best practices for property
maintenance around water bodies.
Low M&EAD, CD,
CSD, BARS,
BCWC, APCC
CPA, DCS, DEP,
Town Budget
X X X X X
14.9. Install signage for parking
areas associated with recreation
resources to promote public
awareness.
Low DPW, CSD, RD,
CD
CPA, DCS, MOD,
Town Budget
X X X
14.10. Develop educational
materials for safe operation of e-
bikes.
Low CSD, DPW, PD,
RD, RC, TC
DCR, MassDOT
Complete
Streets, SS4A,
Town Budget
X X X
14.11. Create mailings to be sent
directly to residents with
information on town open space
and recreation resources.
Low CSD, CC, CD,
RD, P&D
CPA, DCS, DEP
Town Budget
X X X
Community Services, and
I.T.Not applicable
Department of Public
Works, and Conservation
Division
Not applicable
Medium
Medium
Medium
Department of Public Works, Conservation Division, and Communications
Not applicable
Department of Public
Works Community Preservation Act,
and Town Budget
Community Services, and
Communications
Not applicable
Community Services Not applicable
X X
14.8 Develop strategies to distribute the Cape Cod Commission’s Cape Cod Freshwater Pond Buffer Guide to property owners abutting water bodies to encourage best practices for environmentally-friendly property maintenance.
Town of Barnstable, MA
112
Objectives Priority Responsible
Party
Potential
Funding Source
Timeframe
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
14.12. Compile and organize open
space and recreation resources on
the Town website in a user-friendly
format.
Low P&D, IT, CC,
CD, RC, RD
CPA, MOD, Town
Budget
X X X
14.13. Create a ‘walk library’ on the
Town website to serve as a
database of self-guided walks.
Low IT, OSC CPA, Town
Budget
X X X
Medium Planning & Development
Not applicable