Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the scope of this project?
“The Vale” is a master-planned redevelopment of the former Kraft Atlantic Gelatin Facility, most recently owned by General Foods, which ceased operations in 2015. The project seeks to fulfill the City of Woburn’s Technology and Business Overlay District (TBOD) municipal planning goals and complete much needed environmental remediation work. The remediation work includes the removal of more than 400,000sf of existing dilapidated structures and the remediation of existing environmental conditions associated with the ex-Kraft Plant and its surroundings.
Q: What will be the final use of the new buildings?
This mixed-use development will consist of office, lab, research and development buildings, retail, institutional, and residential uses comprising townhomes, multi-family housing, and senior housing. The project helps address important local housing needs through the production of 30 new affordable housing units.
Q: What are the construction work hours for the project?
Except in the event of an emergency, work on exterior of the site shall be from 7:00am – 6:00pm Monday through Friday, and 8:00am – 5:00pm on Saturdays. No work on the exterior of the site shall be permitted on Sunday, or state and federal holidays recognized by the City of Woburn.
Q: How will impacts to the surrounding community be addressed during the construction?
The project has implemented a comprehensive construction mitigation program that aims to minimize or eliminate negative impacts to the surrounding abutters, the City, and community, while allowing for an efficient approach to the construction work.
Q: How can I find out more information about the project?
This website will be updated regularly with project information including construction notices, schedule information, project contact information and regular updates. There will also be a project information board installed on the site.
Q: Who can I contact if I have a question or concern during the construction?
Please contact us by email at info@thevaleconstruction.com with questions or concerns. We will make every effort to return your call or email within one business day.
Q: How will noise be managed during construction?
The City of Woburn has strict requirements regarding noise level allowed by construction activity. The project will meet or exceed these requirements. Furthermore, all reasonable efforts will be made to limit the amount of noise generated from the site and louder equipment will be monitored for noise level. In addition, every effort will be made to minimize truck idling.
Q: How will dust be managed during construction?
The project will meet or exceed federal, state, and City regulatory standards concerning dust control. The construction team will file a Dust Management / Mitigation plan for all phases of construction with the Department of Inspectional Services.
Q: How will blasting be handled during construction?
The project will meet or exceed federal and state guidelines for blasting and will work closely with the Woburn Fire Department during the period of blasting work. Pre-blast inspection surveys will be offered to the owners of any structure within 250 feet of blasting work.
Q: Will the construction result in increased rodent activity in the neighborhood?
The project will have a comprehensive rodent control and monitoring program in accordance with City regulations. Strict waste management protocols ensure rodent food sources will be minimized and monthly rodent control reports will be provided to both the Board of Health and the Department of Inspectional Services.
Q: Will the construction work impact vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the surrounding areas?
Traffic management plans will be developed and implemented during any construction activity that may impact the surrounding public ways. This will involve the use of signage, barriers, and pedestrian and vehicle detours. All modified traffic conditions will meet ADA accessibility standards and police details will be used when necessary, to ensure public safety. Applicable permits and approvals will be obtained, and the community will be notified prior to making any modifications to parking, streets, or sidewalks.
Q: Does the site contain any contamination or hazardous materials?
The project will complete extensive and comprehensive environmental remediation work under Massachusetts clean-up regulations known as the Massachusetts Contingency Plan (MCP). This includes the removal of all existing structures and the remediation of existing environmental conditions associated with the Kraft Plant.
Q: Will resident street parking be affected?
There will be no contractor parking allowed in any of the surrounding neighborhoods in Woburn or Winchester, and no changes are contemplated to any existing area street parking outside the site.
Q: Does the presence of construction trade workers in the neighborhood present a COVID-19 health concern for residents?
Given the status of COVID-19 vaccinations and the relatively isolated nature of the construction site, we do not believe that the presence of workers will present a health and safety concerns for residents.
Q: Where can I find additional information about the planned townhomes?
You can find more information about the townhomes on the Pulte website for Highland at Vale.
Q: Where can I find additional information about the planned senior living community?
You can find more information about the senior living community on the website for The Delaney at the Vale.