The Select Board received an update on the Tom Nevers debris removal and recreation projects on Dec. 17.

DPW and parks staff described Phase 1 of the Tom Nevers project as focused on removing subsurface debris (concrete structures and protruding materials) and creating a beach access ramp for the Department of Public Works to allow future maintenance. The project was bid in October and staff reported awarding the construction contract to Wixson Construction Company for $1.2 million; work is expected to begin after the new year and proceed in an approximate 60‑day window, subject to permit windows and storm season constraints.

Staff emphasized the permitting complexity: nine federal, state and local permits were required, and work must be coordinated to avoid mapped piping plover habitat and to manage the risk of unexploded ordnance (UXO). DPW noted the Army Corps required contract timing and the UXO subcontractor will be on site during excavation operations.

Parks staff also presented a separate, planned reconstruction of the Tom Nevers multi‑purpose surface (commonly described as a roller hockey rink) using a post‑tensioned concrete base that would be striped and reconfigured to serve tennis, pickleball, basketball and roller hockey. The reconstruction follows the Parks & Rec master plan and aims to increase year‑round recreational opportunities.

Why it matters: removing buried debris and making controlled beach access are critical for public safety and long‑term maintenance; the rink reconstruction is part of a parks master plan intended to expand user options.

Next steps: construction will proceed in the permitted winter window and staff will manage public updates and safety measures. The ramp will be blocked from general vehicle use and retained for DPW access until later phases connect ramp and inland subsurface work.