During a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical infrastructure issues, focusing on the condition of local roads and bridges. The conversation highlighted the importance of proactive maintenance to extend the lifespan of these assets, with officials emphasizing that well-maintained roads are vital for community safety and economic support.

One official noted that the town's roadway and bridge infrastructure is among its most valuable assets, yet many roads are deteriorating due to insufficient maintenance. A significant portion of the town's roads, approximately 50%, are now classified as expensive to maintain, with costs escalating dramatically if preventative measures are not taken. The official pointed out that investing in routine maintenance, such as crack sealing, is cost-effective and can prolong the life of the roads significantly.

The discussion also touched on the need for better long-term planning and budgeting for infrastructure projects. Officials expressed a desire for more consistent funding to avoid last-minute budget discussions that often sideline essential maintenance work. Suggestions were made to hold additional meetings at the start of the budget season to ensure infrastructure needs are prioritized.

Concerns were raised about specific projects, including the condition of Main Street, which has not seen significant maintenance since 2012. The officials presented a model demonstrating that regular maintenance could save the town millions compared to infrequent, large-scale repairs.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the town's bridges, with officials reporting that a high-level asset management program is in place to monitor their conditions. Plans for upcoming bridge projects, including Division Street over Williams River, were also discussed, indicating that while some bridges appear to be in poor condition from above, they are structurally sound.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgent need for a strategic approach to infrastructure maintenance, with officials advocating for increased funding and community awareness to ensure the safety and longevity of the town's roads and bridges.