Town staff told the Parks Advisory Board on July 3 that a stormwater main on the northwest side of the Kiwanis track suffered a significant collapse during recent heavy rains and will require replacement and culvert upgrades.

The issue matters because the failing pipe runs beneath park grounds adjacent to the track and playground; staff blocked the immediate collapse area and notified park users and the school corporation of the safety hazard. Repair options carry substantial costs and could affect park use during construction.

Staff said the pipe appears to date to the 1950s and is constructed from welded metal sections; repeated inspections and drone flights showed areas where the metal has eroded and parts of the line have blown out after storm events. Repair estimates discussed at the meeting referenced a cost in the range of several hundred thousand to near $900,000 for full replacement and to upgrade the culvert under the road to current specifications. Staff said they are working with the stormwater board and Commonwealth partners to identify funding sources and consider phasing options. Until a plan is finalized, the park area near the collapse remains closed to the public.

Board members asked whether lining the pipe would be a viable short‑term fix; staff responded that lining would likely be a Band‑Aid because of the pipe’s condition and irregular interior geometry. Staff said they plan to present options to the stormwater board and then to Town Council for funding approval. If replacement proceeds, the town will brief the Parks Board on the schedule and expected impacts to park access.

The board did not vote on the matter; staff said a funding and construction plan should be ready within a few months for formal action.