How to gain access over a paper road?

Question

I'm considering buying a property that currently has no access except a paper road. I'd like the town to extend the current road about 500 feet to this property (including water, sewer, and power underground). Taxes are up to date on the property and have always been paid. Of course the price on the property is great, so I'd like to figure out the best way to make this happen. Any suggestions before I go hire a lawyer to help??
Many thanks!!

Currently no road exists, just a small field, and the lot is in an urban setting in massachusetts, about 1 road back from the beach. Has a small cottage on it right now (635 sq ft) that would be a teardown, but abutters have built in the same footprint as many as 3 stories high.

Answer 1

I must repeat myself for the umpteenth time...NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF A BRIBE. Just grease someones palm with a $10 bill and the world is your oyster.

Answer 2

The town has no obligation to extend the road to the property. Either you and/or the seller will need to do that. If your desire is that it become a public street for which the town will be responsible to maintain, etc., the town should be willing to accept it after it is constructed to the town's standards. You should confirm the town's willingness to accept it before you proceed. If you want it to remain as a private road, the town will have no involvement. 500 feet of road can be expensive, so you may want to get an estimate or two before you buy the property, or discuss this with the seller of the property. Someone other than the town will need to pay for the road.

Answer 3

Pay for the road to go in.

There is no obligation and no way to force a city to provide a road.

Answer 4

No, you do need a lawyer. Your problem is finding the right lawyer.I would think an ex city attorney would be best.