Acton Housing Authority breaks ground on McManus Manor project funded by town acquisition

Acton Town Meeting on May 5, 2025, marked a significant step forward for community development and public safety, with key decisions impacting various local projects. The meeting highlighted the groundbreaking of the McManus Manor project, a new housing initiative by the Acton Housing Authority, which was made possible by the town's acquisition of the former Kennedy Landscape property. The town received $1 million from this transfer, which will be allocated to several pressing community needs.

One of the primary focuses of the meeting was the need for improvements to the Public Safety Building, which, despite its appearance, is over 20 years old. The proposed renovations, costing approximately $350,000, will address outdated HVAC systems and enhance facilities for female officers, reflecting the town's commitment to a diverse workforce.

Additionally, the Acton Memorial Library, which has served the community for over 25 years, is set for renovations to meet updated ADA standards and replace worn carpeting. The town hall, also in need of accessibility upgrades, will see improvements to customer service areas to better serve residents.

The meeting also addressed public safety with plans to replace aging police cruisers with hybrid vehicles, aiming to reduce fuel consumption. The fire department is set to receive a new command vehicle, while efforts to replace outdated turnout gear will begin, prioritizing firefighter safety by moving away from PFAS-containing equipment.

Traffic safety was another key topic, with plans for traffic calming measures to enhance pedestrian safety, including speed humps and other physical constraints. The town will also upgrade the traffic signal at the intersection of School Street and Main Street to alleviate delays.

Community support initiatives were discussed, including a $10,000 program to provide low-income residents with reduced access fees to the transfer and recycling center, and $30,000 in daycare subsidies to assist families facing high childcare costs.

As the town prepares for its 250th anniversary in 2026, funding for fireworks was also included in the budget discussions, ensuring a celebratory event for residents.

Overall, the decisions made during the Acton Town Meeting reflect a proactive approach to addressing community needs, enhancing public safety, and supporting local families, setting a positive trajectory for the town's future.