WESTFIELD – The Legislative and Ordinance Committee (L&O) voted last night to make a positive recommendation to the full City Council next week to approve a package of easements needed for the first phase of the Route 187 reconstruction and improvement project.
City Engineer Mark Cressotti presented details of the project to improve the Feeding Hills Road section of Route 187 to the L&O members, stating that the project, in particular the installation of drainage system, will require 25 temporary five-year easements and 10 permanent easements.
“The City Council approved a $2.8 million bond for this project several years ago (2010) that included $200,000 for the right of way (land) takings,” Cressotti said.
The bond was approved because while the state Department of Transportation is funding the Route 187 improvements, the city is responsible for the design and permitting process required to facilitate the project.
“There is no appropriation associated with these takings because they will be funded through the bond,” Cressotti said.
Cressotti said the 33 temporary and permanent easements will cost $67,920 and will be paid through the bond, a figure that surprised L&O members because it is so low compared to the cost of easements for the Main and Broad street road improvement project.
“This is only the first piece,” Cressotti said, “There is still the little River Road and bridge portion easements for stormwater management that will also be financed through the bond, as well. The difference in cost from the easements required for the downtown improvements is urban versus rural land values.”
The easement agreements have been reviewed by the city’s Law Department and the DOT, Cressotti said.
Cressotti urged the L&O to bring the easements before the full City Council at its only July session slated for Monday because the state is planning to advertise the contract bid in August.
The Finance Committee, which is also reviewing the easements, brought the Route 187 land takings out at the June 20 session for the first reading. Approving an “order” to release bond funds usually requires two City Council sessions for final approval.
