Planning Board Approves Walmart Plans, Including Fence for Abutters

The Seekonk Planning Board continued its review of the plans for a proposed Wal-Mart on Route 6 Wednesday night, adding additional requirements into the mix in an effort to please residents of neighboring properties.

The plans now include a requirement of a six-foot tall, solid construction, PVC fence surrounding the abutting properties. The fence will be built and maintained by Walmart.

Lori and Joseph Melo, residents of a home adjacent to the property, said a buffer made of shrubs or even a chain link fence would not be good enough.

Their concern was that trash would get through shrubs and chain link fence, as well as still allowing people and vehicles to potentially cut across their yard.

“The trash is unbelievable as it is now,” said Lori Melo.

Louis Provenzano, owner of the Children’s Workshop Day care on 1342 Fall River Avenue, expressed concerns over the noise level and safety issues, but noted “I’m certainly in favor of progress and development in the community."

Provenzano said the parking area was in close proximity to the day care center’s play area and could be a safety issue with a potential runaway car, as well as noise levels and fumes from exhaust.

Walmart agreed to reinforce the PVC fence with guardrails near the day care to ensure a car could not enter the property. The issues with noise and exhaust were left unaddressed.

The revised plans also included the construction of a interconnection between the new Walmart and the current stores on Commerce Way through Seekonk Square.

Walmart will pay for the construction of the connection.

The board voted 5-1, with Phoebe Dunn opposed to approve the site plan with latest revisions, including the interconnection and the PVC fencing.