Geotechnical survey finds high groundwater and fill; on‑site wastewater location unsuitable, sewer connection explored

Dave Potter of PAR presented the results of subsurface borings, test pits and environmental sampling at the middle school site. The team reported a fill layer typically about four feet deep within the building footprint and, in some places, dips to roughly six feet. That requires additional over‑excavation and placement of structural fill before foundations can be placed.

Potter said test pits showed the seasonal high groundwater table rises to within inches of finished grade in some locations. The presence of high groundwater made the originally proposed on‑site wastewater treatment location (in the softball/outfield area) unsuitable under DEM inspector guidance. The team is evaluating alternatives: relocate the leaching area to the known existing leaching field corner, pursue reuse/rebuild options for the existing leaching area, or pursue connection to the town sewer network as a longer‑term preferred solution.

Public sewer options were discussed; the nearest sewer connection points are approximately 2,500–2,700 feet from the site (toward Phillips/Church or north of Tower Hill Road), making lateral construction and possible lift station infrastructure considerations that will require cost estimates. The project team will schedule a second day of test pits with DEM to evaluate alternative leaching locations, collect lifecycle and maintenance cost estimates for each option, and continue to review environmental lab results received for soil contaminant testing. The team reported laboratory data are under review and will provide follow‑up to the committee in the coming weeks.