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MassDOT to submit amended notice after contractor finds major culvert damage on Route 122; Uxbridge commission allows in‑kind replacement filing
Summary
MassDOT showed contractor video that revealed missing sections and wall failure inside a Route 122 culvert; the Conservation Commission voted to allow an amended Notice of Intent to replace the culvert in kind with precast sections so the broader road and site work can stay on schedule.
MassDOT and project consultants told the Uxbridge Conservation Commission May 19 that contractor video of a culvert under Route 122 revealed serious internal deterioration and missing wall sections that undermine the previously planned extension. Given the condition, MassDOT asked permission to file an amended Notice of Intent to replace the culvert in kind with precast sections rather than delay the larger reconstruction work.
Tracy Capolotti, MassDOT District 3 environmental engineer, explained the contractor had run an inspection camera through the culvert and provided video snapshots; DOT staff noted that some wall sections were missing and that downstream material had apparently washed away. DOT and consulting engineers said an in‑kind replacement with precast sections would be the fastest way to secure the roadway and allow related work (including the Big Y driveway and traffic signal) to proceed on schedule. DOT also said they were already coordinating with DEP staff who regularly work on DOT projects.
Commissioners reviewed the video and discussed hydraulic opening size and possible requirements for a larger crossing. Several commissioners observed that allowing an amended NOI to address an urgent construction need would be appropriate, while reserving the commission's right to require a larger crossing if subsequent technical review showed a need.
The commission voted to allow MassDOT to submit an amended NOI to replace the culvert in kind; MassDOT will file the amended permit application with DEP and the commission and provide trench/installation details and backfill specifications as part of the submittal.
What happens next: MassDOT will prepare and file an amended NOI and trench detail; the commission will review the amended submission and may require additional hydraulic or stream‑crossing analyses depending on permit review and DEP feedback.
