DPW reports start of leaf collection, Route 106 overlay and progress on playhouse ramp and Waveny parking

Department of Public Works told the Board of Selectmen on Nov. 3 that leaf collection began that day and will run through November with a final wrap-up beginning Nov. 30; the town’s Leaf Mulch Site will remain open through Dec. 13. Staff asked residents to be patient while crews complete five weeks of collection work.

DPW also reported that Route 106 is receiving an approximately 1-inch overlay on the stretch between Canoe Hill and the town line; the work will include temporary closures that allow only emergency vehicles, school buses and local traffic for the multi-day operation. Officials said the overlay will reduce the need for more extensive reconstruction until next year when a full repaving is scheduled.

Construction on the playhouse ramp and the associated dumpster enclosure is continuing. Crews are forming and pouring a slab for the enclosure, installing electrical conduit for the compactor, and will pour the connecting sidewalk next week. Work also includes blocking an unnecessary Bilco door to improve building envelope and water protection.

Work on the Waveny parking lot is progressing, including decorative lamp-post bases and paving; DPW staff said the contractor will then tie the lot to the opposite parking area and proceed to Pine Street. Staff reported ongoing issues with pedestrians crossing fenced-off construction zones to reach the dumpsters; DPW said signage and nightly closures are used but that the work’s early completion remains the best mitigation.

DPW staff noted the town received a $47,452.18 rebate check from Eversource for energy-efficiency measures installed at the police department, including high-efficiency lighting, boilers, domestic hot water equipment and HVAC upgrades.

Other minor traffic-safety adjustments were reported, including widening a stop bar on Elm Street and placing a planter with "Do Not Enter"/"Wrong Way" signage to deter wrong-way movements. Staff said those measures remain under observation.