SOUTHWICK – The Board of Selectmen approved two requests for state Chapter 90 funds last night.
The first request was for $75,000 to begin repairing or replacing several culverts throughout town.
“The $75,000 will get us designed and permitted, but it doesn’t get us any construction,” said Department of Public Works Director Jeffrey Neece.
“These culverts are 1940’s and 1950’s vintage,” he added.
Neece said five or six culverts were identified as being in need. Board Chairman Arthur Pinell noted that some of them were damaged during last year’s storms.
“It hurt the degradation process,” Neece said, adding that it would likely be a four-year process to design and construct the coverts.
The other request, also unanimously approved by the board, was for $50,000 for repairs on Gloria Drive.
Last week, residents of the street implored the board to help with their situation. Trees have fallen and water has eroded land, causing damage to property. The residents fear more costly damage is imminent if something is not done.
Board members toured the property and saw the damage – and potential damage – firsthand.
“I was impressed with the amount of damage there – it’s a severe situation that will take a substantial effort,” said Pinell. “There is damage to private property. In my mind, the need has been established as a priority.”
Neece said because it is Chapter 90 funds that must go thought the Department of Transportation, it could take two weeks for funds to be approved.
“I don’t want to wait two weeks – we want to start it next week,” Neece said, adding that Crestview Construction would perform the work.
