Baker Signs Bill Putting Greylock Glen Under Article 97 Protection
ADAMS, Mass. — The Greylock Glen has gotten an extra layer of protection with Gov. Charle Baker's signing of a bill on Monday that puts the 1,008 acres under Article 97 protection.
"I am proud to partner with the town of Adams, the legislative delegation, and key stakeholders on legislation advancing another important milestone of the future management of the Greylock Glen land," Baker said in a statement. "I look forward to continuing our work with the town as we move forward ensuring the public truly benefits from this significant property."
Article 97 authorizes the state to acquire land for conservation purposes. Under the article's permanent protection, the Greylock Glen land will be designated for open space protection, management and conservation, environmental education, environmental research, and public access for recreational purpose.
"I am thrilled to see this massive swath of the Glen given this special protection and look forward to future developments in the region making the most of this precious natural resource," said state Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, D-Pittsfield.
With the signing of Senate Bill 1631, "An Act designating certain lands in the town of Adams for conservation and public recreational purposes," the state and town will be able to further advance a $50 million planned development of a four-season recreation and environmental education destination. Previously, the town of Adams, in collaboration with the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, Massachusetts Audubon and the Appalachian Mountain Club, developed the project concept.
The town is currently soliciting a developer for the campground, part of a planned 56-acre resort project. The proposed project will contain an amphitheater, an outdoor center, lodging, hiking trails and a conference center. The plan also calls for 1,000 acres of land set aside as conservation land making the project both environmentally conscious and economically beneficial to the Northern Berkshires.
Additionally, the state Department of Conservation and Recreation, which acquired the land along with the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance in 1985, will construct an extensive trail system for hikers, bikers, horseback riders, cross-country skiers, snowmobilers, and other users as part of the first phase of the project's implementation.
In 2014, the town of Adams signed a master lease with the DCR allowing the community to begin development on a 56-acre parcel of land within Greylock Glen. The signing of the lease was the culmination of years of work between state and local officials.
"I am pleased with this 1,008 acres of state land protection as it is a critical component in the ongoing commitment of the commonwealth to support the unique regional strengths of the overall Greylock Glen project," said state Rep. Gailanne Cariddi, D-North Adams.
Tags: Article 97, Charlie Baker, conserved land, Greylock Glen, legislation,
