Residents press council on sidewalks, stormwater and transit during CIP hearing
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Summary
Town staff outlined a $182 million, five-year capital improvement program; residents used the public-hearing period to press for sooner pavement and sidewalk work, better stormwater repairs and temporary bike-safety measures while long-term projects remain years away.
Town staff presented the recommended five-year Capital Improvement Program (FY 2026–27 through 2030–31), describing 114 projects totaling about $182 million over five years and noting priorities such as athletic-field upgrades, a Progress Street parking facility, sidewalk and trail construction, transit bus replacements and stormwater and sewer rehabilitation.
After the presentation, a sustained public-comment period produced a series of targeted requests: residents asked why the Clay Street sidewalk project had been delayed and its cost increased (Charles Shade), called for more attention to recurring stormwater and sewer failures (Anna Chocky Chase), suggested interim bike-safety measures on North Main and Mount Tabor rather than waiting years for full reconstruction (Caitlin Jacobs), and asked for clearer signage and bike access on sidewalks (Emilio Santini). A number of speakers praised the CIP document’s thoroughness while urging different prioritization of projects to address pedestrian continuity and stormwater reliability.
Council said it will delay action until the Jan. 27 meeting, take the submitted comments to the upcoming work session and allow staff and the council to respond and refine priorities.
Why it matters: The CIP frames the town’s capital spending and shapes where multi-year investments will be made; public requests for interim and accelerated work on sidewalks, stormwater and bike safety reflect resident priorities and safety concerns.
What’s next: Council will discuss the comments at a Jan. 20 work session and may vote on the CIP at its Jan. 27 meeting.