Zoning Board Approves Phase II of Norwood Hospital Expansion-This Day In Norwood History-June 24, 1981

Appeal Board Passes $25 Million Building Plan Following Shouting Match Over Town Official Review

The Zoning Board of Appeal gave its approval last night to the second part of Norwood Hospital’s expansion project. The project, which will cost an estimated $25 million, will include a building on the former Civic Center site that will house a new boiler plant, operating rooms, radiology rooms, and several other hospital departments. The 3-0 vote came after a heated debate over what two members called the lack of participation by Building Inspector John E. Grover and Town Engineer Walter R. Ryan in the appeal board’s review process. Board member Joseph J. Randall criticized John E. Grover and Walter R. Ryan for not giving their opinions on the hospital’s plot plans, noting that the board has always sought comments from town department heads and could not expect final plans yet on a project of this size. Chairman Philip W. Riley added that he thought the town should have provided comments for the board.

John E. Grover and Walter R. Ryan have declined to comment on the plans until they are final, as detailed construction plans have not yet been drawn up. John E. Grover, who at times got into a shouting match with Joseph J. Randall, asserted that his comments on unfinished expansion plans would be useless, stating, “We’re not giving you a comment because they’re not ready. They’re just not ready.” Board member John J. DiSangro urged approval of the required special permit for the project, saying the board already had enough information to act, as a special permit is required for hospital construction in any zone. Final plans for the project, called Phase II, will be subject to the approval and possible revision by various town officials, including the building inspector, and the police and fire chiefs. Phase I, which started last year and is not yet complete, includes renovations to the existing hospital. Hospital officials have declined to estimate when Phase II might begin, and Hospital Assistant Administrator John Dalton said earlier this month that high financing costs may cause a delay, adding only that the facility is expected to be open in three years.

In other business last night, the board reviewed a request by Frederick J. Peterson for a special permit to allow construction of four apartments in a vacant building he owns at 476-478 Walpole Street. The building is located in a business zone. Frederick J. Peterson is also seeking a special permit to allow parking by apartment residents and employees of his business, Peterson Catering Service. Frederick J. Peterson’s attorney, James Hilliard of Walpole, said Frederick J. Peterson wants to use a vacant garage in the rear of the site for his business, although plans have not yet been made. The board will view the site Saturday before making a decision.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger