We are writing to express our concerns about the Montague Planning Board’s proposed rezoning of two parcels of land located off Turnpike Road in Turners Falls. The board proposes the land be rezoned from Neighborhood Business to General Business.

The lots in question are sandwiched between Springdale and St. Mary’s (Our Lady of Peace) cemeteries with the only access road coming off an already busy Turnpike Road. The land is currently covered by a beautiful pine forest with many walking paths and trails used by local residents to walk their pets, go jogging, or simply take a leisurely walk along the shady trails.

At this point, no studies of any kind have been done concerning the impact this change would have to the residential community. Once this woodland that has been in existence for more than a century is clear-cut and bulldozed, it will be gone forever. Replacing it with a few businesses, shrubs and ornamental grasses would be a travesty.

We urge all concerned Montague residents to attend the coming Planning Board meeting on Aug. 22 at 6:30 p.m., in the second-floor meeting room at Montague Town Hall. Help conserve the peace and tranquility this special forest offers by attending the meeting and sending a message to the board that this is an unwelcome change to our community.

We urge the Board of Selectmen to reject the proposed rezoning by the Planning Board. The rezoning plan is not in the best interest of our village, and it would have negative and lasting consequences to our future.

Jerry Wondoloski and Colleen Carlisle

Turners Falls