City of Methuen Master Plan

Natural Resources, Open Space, and Recreation
NOR 1.4 : Work with developers to preserve linkages or corridors between natural areas.
The potential corridors shown on Figure 25 generally follow wetland and stream
corridors and the Conservation Commission already regulates a setback from these
features. As developers or landowners seek permission to alter their land they should be
made aware of these features and their potential to link other natural areas. In some
cases the City may want to explore offering incentives in exchange for the landowner
providing a trail easement along these corridors.
NOR 1.5 : Pass the Community Preservation Act as a means of funding open space protection and
improvements to recreation facilities.
Goal NOR-2: Encourage the development and redevelopment of river frontage for public
recreation and enjoyment.
Objectives:
• Create outdoor and indoor viewing and access points to the Merrimack and Spicket Rivers.
Strategies:
NOR 2.1:
NOR 2.2:
Carry out the recommendations of the Downtown Development Plan to create a
complete riverwalk along the Spicket River and to provide a small boat ramp on it.
Carry out that plan’s further recommendations to redevelop property along the Spicket
River to open up the backs of buildings to the Spicket River and to create indoor views
from redeveloped buildings.
Increase public access to the Merrimack River by requiring all non-residential and
multifamily residential development along the rivers to provide public access and scenic
views to the rivers.
Goal NOR-3: Expand recreation facilities to meet usage demands of a growing population.
Objectives:
• Develop appropriate trail systems to make passive open space recreation areas accessible to the
general public.
• Make provisions for bike paths and sidewalks in transportation plans.
• Expand youth programs and facilities.
Strategies:
NOR 3.1: Carry out the recommendations of the Methuen Open Space and Recreation Plan to
increase open space and recreation facilities.
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