The former Southwick Feed Warehouse could become the new location of the Westfield River Brewery. (Photo by Frederick Gore)
SOUTHWICK – Southwick Town Planner Alan Slessler gave an update Monday on several projects that are in the works.
“The biggest thing that has come in recently is that the solar project on Congamond Road is moving forward,” said Slessler.
That first phase of the two-phase project from Carbon Finance, known as Southwick I, should start construction in June.
“They plan to be on line by November,” said Slessler. “Right now they are setting up meetings for Southwick II.”
The second phase of the project is also located on the lakes but closer to Goose Pond. Meetings are being set up with the Planning Board, Conservation Commission, and other boards.
Another solar project set for land behind the Big Y store is not yet underway.
“They are waiting to get approval from Western Massachusetts Electric Company,” said Slessler.
The new Right Aid Pharmacy, which is slated to go into the former ABC Pizza Plaza, is also being held up.
“They are in litigation,” Slessler said, noting that the town is not currently involved in that legal matter.
Another project that was set to go on College Highway was squashed by its corporate developer. Property owned by the King brothers across from Tractor Supply was supposed to be developed with a major retailer. Slessler said the town was notified from the corporation that it would not build in Southwick.
“They did not give a reason,” he said.
Next week on March 11 the Planning Board will have a hearing for the Westfield River Brewery which is seeking permits to take over the former Chuck’s Steakhouse. A maintenance garage for Five Star Transportation Inc. of Agawam, is also slated for discussion.
“Right now everybody is just waiting for the snow to melt to get their projects going,” Slessler said.
