Residents, businesses say Middleton construction notices fall short; staff cite understaffing and propose checklist, contract changes

At a meeting of Middleton’s Public Works Committee discussion forum, residents and business representatives told city staff that communication about ongoing street projects has been inconsistent and, in some cases, disrupted access to properties and services. Staff acknowledged the problems, linked some issues to understaffing and the dynamic nature of construction, and outlined possible fixes including weekly contractor updates, targeted mailers, improved signage and contract amendments to require contractor communication.

The committee discussed a memo outlining current outreach—largely web- and email-based—and low‑tech alternatives such as a yearly construction kickoff meeting, postcards to nearby residents, and placing advance signs in project neighborhoods. A representative reading a letter from Ellen Carlson on behalf of WayForward Resources said the…