On April 9, residents of Mechanic Street in Mattapoisett’s historic village were invited by Town Administrator Michael Gagne to meet with Jon Connell of Field Engineering and Mattapoisett Highway Surveyor Barry Denham.
This informal meeting gave residents an opportunity to air their questions and concerns regarding the roadway and infrastructure repairs slated to begin in the coming weeks. About 10 residents attended the gathering at Center School.
Most folks were primarily concerned with the length of time the construction would take, curb cuts and driveways, gas line replacement, and stormwater management.
When asked how the Town would be paying for the expensive improvements, Gagne reminded people that $400,000 was approved by Town Meeting, earmarked for such repairs, along with anticipated Chapter 90 funding arriving around July 1.
Two property owners, whose homes are located north of Hammond Street, asked why the plans did not include that section of Mechanic Street. When told that it came down to money and priorities, they exited the meeting appearing miffed.
Another resident wanted to know if trash collection would be disrupted during the construction phase. Connell said that notice would be given to alert residents to place their trash in the designated curb location for each collection cycle prior to construction, thereby minimizing any disruption.
But Connell also said, “There will be inconvenience,” reminding all that this type of work isn’t without hiccups.
On the theme of gas line upgrades, Denham told the townspeople that the work taking place on their private property by the gas company was between them and the gas company, not the Town and the gas company.
“We don’t have any control over where they locate the pipes on your property,” said Denham. However, Gagne said he would discuss reseeding lawns as promised by the utility.
Denham gave them the biggest wake-up call, however, when he announced federal regulations.
“Under current water management, MS4, we are supposed to identify and eliminate any private drains going into the sewer,” said Denham. “I must warn everyone that the Town may have to eliminate them in the future. It may be necessary.”
To this statement, Pat Donoghue asked, “Well, are you going to move the river then?” She said it was the river that caused basements to fill with water.
Further stormwater and drainage issues were discussed with Denham as he and Connell noted on maps where current public drains were located and the possibility of adding one or two more along the east side of Mechanic Street. However, with the placement of water mains, sewer mains, and gas lines he said, “There isn’t much real estate under the road.” Denham said of water, “It’s going to be a horror show no matter what we do.”
Continuing on the theme of water management Denham said, “I’ve dealt with problems in Mattapoisett for 50 years. As federal laws change, Mattapoisett may have to eliminate the private connections.”
Denham said the regulations take into consideration the possibility of freshwater and saltwater contamination from sump pumps that foul the water with fuel from heating oil tanks and washing machines.
Gagne said that the work would likely begin in about four to six weeks, once the bidding process is completed. Connell assured the residents that his team will be available to work closely with them to ensure as much collective cooperation as possible during their summer of construction noise, asphalt smells, dirty windows, and a new road with new sidewalks.
By Marilou Newell
