04/28/2026
A Smarter Way to Grow: The Padelford Street Proposal
Berkley is at a crossroads. We all want the services and tax revenue that businesses provide, but we want to keep the "country" in our country roads and neighborhoods. For years, we’ve dealt with a zoning map that was created long after the housing boom, leaving us with businesses and homes uncomfortably sandwiched together.
This June, at the Annual Town Meeting, voters will be presented with a plan to add 4 lots to the existing General Business District located on Padelford St. near Route 24. While a similar plan was met with resident opposition last year—particularly from those in Parson's Walk—this current version has been adjusted to address the specific buffering concerns raised at that time.
1. We Listened to the Neighbors
Last year, residents expressed valid concerns about the impact on Parson’s Walk. We didn't ignore that—we went back to the drawing board.
• The "Buffer First" Design: Unlike last year’s plan, this new proposal keeps the rear of the lots Residential.
• Protection for Parson’s Walk: By concentrating business activity only on the Padelford Street frontage, a significant green buffer remains between any new business and existing backyards. The rear of the property remains available for residential uses only.
2. Right Place, Right Pace
Not all land is created equal when it comes to business. Padelford Street near Route 24 is the most logical choice for the town’s future for two reasons:
• Easy On, Easy Off: Businesses thrive near highway exits. It’s a natural fit that doesn't require customers to wind through our scenic residential neighborhoods.
• Traffic Control: Because of its proximity to the highway, the majority of new traffic stays on the main artery and off our narrow town roads. It provides the services we need without the congestion we don't.
• Suitable Land: There are no major wetland resource areas on-site that would present significant challenges to the buildable area
3. Investing in Berkley’s Independence
Every time a resident goes to a neighboring town for dinner or supplies, Berkley misses out. By creating a functional General Business District here, we:
• Capture the Meals Tax: Local dining keeps tax dollars in our community to fund our schools and services.
• Lower the Residential Burden: New personal property taxes from businesses help offset the rising costs of town administration, taking the pressure off homeowners.
• Provide Convenience: Eliminate the need for out-of-town travel by bringing some essential services to Berkley.
Berkley adopted zoning districts in 2007, long after the housing boom had already turned many of our farms into subdivisions. This delay left us with a mismatched map of business lots surrounded by residential homes. We know residents want local services but don't want them in their backyards. This plan utilizes a highway-adjacent area that keeps commercial activity exactly where it belongs: away from your side streets and close to the main thoroughfare.
