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BET committee clears release of conditions for Shore Road sidewalk design
Summary
The Board of Estimate and Taxation (BET) budget committee voted 4-0 to release conditions so Public Works can proceed with final design for a Shore Road sidewalk, clearing the way for design work and public engagement pending RTM funding action.
The Board of Estimate and Taxation budget committee voted 4-0 to release conditions so the Department of Public Works (DPW) can continue design work on a Shore Road sidewalk project, Jim Michael, Commissioner of Public Works, told the committee.
Michael said the release covers $125,000 tied to conditions requiring BET review of survey results and a DPW commitment that feasibility include public input. “We had a meeting a few weeks ago and gave kind of a spot-by-spot breakdown of the sidewalk that showed any last points of concern, but pretty much there isn't,” Michael said. He added the project team plans to place the sidewalk on what they are calling the north or west side of the road depending on final design and that they expect minimal major issues.
The nut graf: The release authorizes DPW to finalize design work but does not authorize construction. Michael said construction funding depends on the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) taking action on capital funding; once the RTM acts and funding is available, DPW expects to finish design mid to late summer and either bid construction for fall work or schedule work for next spring.
Committee members pressed staff on property impacts and public reaction. Harry Fisher asked whether easements would be required; Michael replied the department anticipates needing a single easement at a corner to accommodate curb ramps and to avoid a utility pole and that initial conversations with the property owner indicate cooperation. On public response, Michael summarized that comments at the public hearing were “very positive” and that follow-up remarks included requests to complete the work more quickly.
David (BET member) moved to release the conditions; the motion was seconded and designated routine. The committee approved the release 4-0-0. The vote releases design-stage funding tied to the $125,000 condition but, per Michael, construction will await RTM appropriation.
The committee also discussed related local projects, including a delayed North Street bridge project, which Michael said is being paced to reduce public impact while utility relocation and preparations proceed.
The committee recorded the action as routine; DPW will return with finalized designs and will incorporate public input as pledged once the RTM action provides construction funding.
