Sturbridge Planning Board Approves Library ADA Deck Project

Planning Board · Meeting of May 11, 2026

Sturbridge Planning Board approves ADA deck for Joshua Hyde Public Library, hears Town Planner Jean Bubon is retiring. The board voted unanimously to close a public hearing and approve, with 11 conditions, a new rear deck, ramp and walkway giving handicap-accessible egress from the library's lower level, where an elevator has stranded patrons. Library Director Becky Plimpton said the project also creates ADA-compliant outdoor program space.

Bubon told the board, "I let them know that I'm retiring in 12 weeks," and said she intends to close out a Mass Works grant before leaving. Open Space Committee Chair Carol Goodwin credited Bubon's work securing the 222-acre Barrett Farm gift, the committee's "number one priority." The board reelected Charles Blanchard chair and Sue Waters vice chair and clerk, 7-0, and appointed Dane LaBonte its Community Preservation Committee representative.

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Source: the Planning Board meeting of May 11, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.