December 31, 2004

8 homes planned for playing fields

WILBRAHAM (MA)
Republican

Friday, December 31, 2004
By BILL ZAJAC
wzajac@repub.com

WILBRAHAM - The planned construction of eight homes on Tinkham Road means neighbors and some athletic teams will lose a neighborhood recreation oasis where the homes will be built.

But while some neighbors hate to see the 4.79 acres across from the entrance to Minnechaug Regional High School developed, they are taking some solace in the belief that their property values will rise as a result of the construction.

"It was a great place for kids and dogs to run around, and many teams practiced there as well," said Sheila R. Albertson, whose 3 Edward St. home faces the property being developed by town resident and contractor Anthony Carnevale.

Her neighbor Armand A. Zolla said he has enjoyed 38 years of the undeveloped land and practice fields in front of his home.

But, he said, "Time marches on. Development was inevitable."

The land was sold for $750,000 recently as part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield's $7.75 million settlement of clergy sexual abuse suits.

Posted by kshaw at December 31, 2004 08:00 AM