Public works official: Cooper Lane culvert replacement estimated at just over $1 million

John Winton, called to report on public-works activity, told the board that several road projects are progressing and noted a recent emergency response to Cooper Lane after a chip-seal surface began to soften and "bleed" in extreme heat.

"We absolutely had to do something this afternoon," Winton said, describing how crews laid down clean chipstone to allow traffic and planned to sweep it up after about a week while continuing to investigate the contractor's work. He warned drivers to be cautious: "There is loose stone" and the town will sweep the material when conditions allow.

Winton said Edgewood Street and Clinton Street are scheduled for milling, paving and sidewalks beginning next week if weather permits, and Gulf Road received a short overlay as a temporary measure while staff pursue grants for a full reconstruction. He acknowledged a delayed mowing schedule because the roadside mower was in repair and said staff are prioritizing high-visibility areas.

On larger capital work, Winton said the Cooper Lane culvert replacement is in design and "the cost estimate is just over $1,000,000," with construction likely in 2028 as design and funding progress.

What’s next: Public works will continue coordination with the contractor on Cooper Lane, perform temporary measures and present updated cost and schedule information at a future meeting.