Traffic Top Concern For Proposed 130-Room Hotel On Rt. 140

MANSFIELD, MA — A 130-room hotel, a restaurant, and possibly a bank are slated for the former Players Choice soccer bubble property on Route 140, just off of Interstate 495.

The planning board got their first look at the project Wednesday night, although there was not much to see. During the initial hearing, it was clear that the project is still in the early phases, with renderings not available and the traffic study yet to be reviewed.

Behind the development is Marco Crugnale, who told the board that a national chain is slated to occupy the hotel. He said he hopes to attract a chain restaurant and another retail component, possibly a bank.

Early indications from the planning board were that they liked what they saw, but need more information.

"I think we need another hotel, I think it’s going to generate significant revenue for the town, I think it's a good site," planning board member Joseph Cerretani said.

Residents in attendance, including many from the 55+ community Village at the Pointe at 15 Reservoir St., thought that a hotel was the best use of the site, but were worried about traffic and the prospect of hotel guests walking down the road to the Xfinity Center. Sandra Baker, a Village at the Pointe resident, said she was worried about the lone entrance and various traffic issues, including the presence having only one entrance and exit on Reservoir Street.

Town Planner Shaun Burke said any traffic management plan will have to include the assumption that people at the hotel are going to attend shows at the concert venue.

Bob Rego, an engineer for the project, said the traffic study is done, but they have not had a chance to review it yet and a meeting with MassDOT is planned for next week.

"We’re going to sit down and get input from MassDOT as far as what they want to see," Rego said.

The hearing was continued to July 18.

Photo taken by Dan Libon