Page 6 - planning-committee-packet

Discussion then shifted to community concerns about the lack of sidewalks along Old Ocean City
Boulevard, especially near new rental units and townhouses. Chairman Stoehr addressed the issue on
behalf of concerned residents, citing safety risks for parents with strollers and children walking
dangerously close to traffic. He described the road as heavily trafficked, often littered with alcohol
containers, and increasingly used by school-aged children.

Mr. Purnell noted that an impact fund, reportedly established with over $200,000 during the community’s
development, was intended to help address infrastructure needs like sidewalks. While the road fell under
state jurisdiction, he said the town had previously used MOUs (Memorandums of Understanding) to fund
sidewalk construction using local dollars while complying with state standards. He argued that Berlin
had both the financial means and a clear precedent to proceed, but progress had been delayed.

Mr. Harrison joined the discussion to highlight sidewalk inconsistencies along Old Ocean City Boulevard.
He pointed out that some businesses, like Bloom, were not required to install sidewalks, while others,
including the Berlin Activities Depot, had been required to do so. The result, he said, was a patchwork of
sidewalks that created gaps and undermined pedestrian safety. He added that his own proposed
development had been designed with the town’s “Rails-to-Trails” initiative in mind. Specifically, he said
the corner building was intended to open up to the future trail, reinforcing walkability and the town’s long-
term vision for connectivity.

Despite the broader sidewalk complications, Mr. Reister confirmed that Burley Building Company would
install sidewalks along their frontage. He emphasized that they were taking a proactive, self-reforming
approach and did not expect sidewalk installation to be an issue for their portion of the project.
Nonetheless, the Commission reiterated its commitment to advocating for comprehensive sidewalk
improvements throughout Berlin, especially in high-traffic and residential areas.

With no further questions or comments, Chairman Stoehr called for a motion to adjourn. On a motion
made by Mr. Cosby and seconded by Mr. Purnell, the meeting adjourned at 6:42 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Kate Daub
Special Projects Administrator

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