Selectboard backs three river projects, requests two benefit‑cost analyses to qualify for FEMA funding

At its July 21 meeting the Marshfield Selectboard reviewed a flood‑scoping study led by Fitzgerald Environmental and agreed to move three consultant‑recommended projects forward for concept design.

Consultant Evan Fitzpatrick explained that the team "reviewed 10 alternatives" and that the immediate goal is to select three projects for concept designs and two projects for benefit‑cost analyses to demonstrate cost‑effectiveness to FEMA. The board directed that benefit‑cost analyses be performed for the Old Schoolhouse Common/School Street location and for the Twinfield/Rapczynski property so the town can present stronger applications when hazard mitigation funding becomes available.

Samuel Puddicombe of the Friends of the Winooski told the board the town does not need to wait for FEMA to pursue other grants and offered his group's assistance with funding applications. Consultants and board members also discussed regional implications, noting some projects could provide downstream benefits to neighboring towns.