Bridge reopens; council gets update on remaining punch list and related capital projects

Town Manager Joe Labello reported that the Pine Tree bridge opened following state approval and acknowledged remaining punch-list work including railing installation and light pole work. Labello said the bridge took longer than expected — roughly 11 months for the project — and that the contractor and subcontractors have been working with staff to complete final items. Council and staff thanked contractors and neighbors for patience during construction and noted additional small items (rails, lighting trims) still to be finished.

Labello also reviewed other capital projects completed this fiscal year (boat-ramp improvements, community park lighting, utility building repairs) and noted pending change orders related to the bridge and other capital projects. He said the town negotiated developer-installed water infrastructure for a new development (adding roughly 600 customers) and that the bridge opening has increased boating and traffic use of local waterways; council asked for additional marine patrols. Staff said lights for the bridge had arrived and the contractor will do final installation; council asked that staff continue to expedite the remaining items and report any change orders for council action.