Plymouth allocates $10M to improve 39.9 miles of roadways this year

The Plymouth Select Board meeting on May 27, 2025, highlighted an ambitious $10 million road improvement program aimed at enhancing the town's infrastructure. The plan, presented by Assistant DPW Director James Downey and Public Works Director Bill Coyle, focuses on maintaining and upgrading approximately 40 miles of roads, balancing the need to repair the worst streets while ensuring that well-maintained roads remain in good condition.

Downey emphasized the importance of a proactive approach to road management, which includes both preservation and recycling techniques to extend the life of existing roads. The proposed funding will cover 14.2 miles of hot mix asphalt paving and 25.7 miles of rubber chip seal, with the latter being a cost-effective method that helps preserve road surfaces and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

The meeting also addressed the challenges of maintaining unaccepted roads, which are not officially recognized as public roads but still require some level of maintenance. The board discussed the need for a strategy to manage these roads effectively, especially as many homeowners associations struggle to maintain their private roads.

In response to community concerns about the condition of gravel roads, Downey assured residents that the town has a grader actively working to maintain these areas, although the frequency of maintenance can vary based on weather conditions.

The board's discussions underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making in prioritizing road repairs, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to address the most pressing needs. As the town moves forward with this ambitious road program, residents can expect ongoing updates and opportunities for public input on future road management strategies.