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Committee backs revised engineering and grant applications for Elmwood/Elm Grove pedestrian bridge
Summary
The committee approved sending a recommendation to council to proceed with revised bridge drawings, pursue two grants (as cited in the packet) and, if necessary, a joint DEP permit to lower the bridge and include a stormwater facility to meet grant and permitting requirements.
Marlborough’s Infrastructure Committee voted Jan. 27 to recommend that borough council authorize staff to proceed with revised engineering drawings and grant submittals for the Elmwood/Elm Grove pedestrian bridge.
Staff described the project as identified in the capital improvement plan and master parks plan and said the borough is applying for two grant programs referenced in the meeting packet (the transcript identifies them as the "Monco 2000 and 40" grant and the DCNR C2P2 grant). Both grants require matching funds and shovel-ready project documentation.
Tony of Pennoni reviewed the proposed site layout and permitting constraints. He said DEP indicated the project could qualify for a general permit only if the bridge deck remained above the flood elevation and if a stormwater basin was not included. "...in order to stay in that general permit, your bridge has to be above your under your flood elevation and you cannot... have stormwater basin in your project design because that will push you into the more comprehensive permit," Tony said. After consideration, engineers recommended pursuing the DEP joint (more comprehensive) permit so the bridge can be lowered to better match existing grades and a stormwater facility reinstated; staff warned this will add roughly three months to review and approximately 30–40% more engineering work.
Staff said revised drawings showing the stormwater facility and updated bridge geometry will be required for grant applications and that the borough may include demolition costs in grant asks to reduce local expenditure. The committee agreed staff and consultants should coordinate grant timelines and decide whether to include the low-volume road grant for the stormwater elements.
Chair Mike Salatin moved to recommend the next steps and pursue the revised engineering and grant applications; the committee approved the recommendation by voice vote.
The recommendation will be forwarded to borough council so staff can complete revised drawings and prepare grant submittals.
