Green Street project continues as planned

(11/21) The scope of the Green Street project has kept it on the Town’s radar for over a year now. It includes the replacement of a trenchless structural storm drainpipe lining, sidewalk, curb and gutter installation and repaving. This work is necessary due to a brief investigation into a portion of cracked asphalt done last year showing a breach in the storm drain. The galvanized pipes in question were installed in the 70’s and with over 50 years of wear and tear, they are showing signs of severe deterioration.

In October, a bid was accepted from Wastler & Son for $453,432 for all labor, materials and equipment required for replacing a total of 530 linear feet of corrugated metal pipe lining. This repair is considered a "middle of the road" option. Wastler & Son is the same company that completed work on Maple Avenue and in the Deerfield community. The Town has been very satisfied with their work.

Up to this point, the residents living on Green Street have cooperated with the Town in making plans for the repairs. However, when the Town discussed adding a sidewalk to the corner of Maple Ave and Green Street, pulling the sidewalk in front of No. 3 Green Street out five feet, and inevitably connecting it to Fulton Avenue, reactions were mixed.

In response to this decision, one of the Green Street residents sent an email to the Council complaining about the addition of the sidewalk, claiming it would prevent them from being able to park in front of their house in the future.

Although sympathetic to the residents' concerns, Commissioner Russ Winch was adamant that public safety is by far more important. "The stated purpose for this [sidewalk] is public safety," he said. "There are a lot of kids that walk up and down that road."

Winch pointed out that the residents will not lose any land because of the additional sidewalk installation. This was also the reason why the Council discussed turning Green Street into a one-way for its entire length, with parking being restricted to the second portion of Green Street on the Maple Avenue side.

Burgess Chad W Weddle explained that while the complainant was not the owner of the property, it was someone who does live there. He also mentioned that during the Maple Avenue project, sidewalks were added where they previously had not been and there were upset residents then too.

When surveying the audience at the meeting, Commissioner Betsey Whitmore-Brannen asked if anyone was specifically there to discuss the Green Street project. When no one stepped forward, Brannen's question was answered.

While the Council agreed further discussion was needed over the one-way designation, they were all in agreement for adding the sidewalk.