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Bourne's Pond project stalled by permitting reviews as estimated costs more than double
Summary
Town officials said the Bourne's Pond restoration has been delayed in federal and state review offices, and reported construction cost estimates rising from about $4 million to over $11 million; the town is seeking help to expedite bridge and permitting reviews so it can bid the project.
FALMOUTH — Town officials told the Select Board that long permitting delays and rising construction costs are the main obstacles to starting work on the Bourne's Pond project.
Town Manager Mike Renshaw traced the timeline: the town’s application dates back to 2014–2015 and was held up for years in U.S. Army Corps of Engineers review. Additional requirements from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection added new scouring‑plan work, and the project is now mired in the Massachusetts Department of Transportation Bridge Office review, Renshaw said.
Renshaw said construction cost estimates have increased significantly since planning began. 'The cost has more than doubled over the years. Gone from $4,000,000 project to over an $11,000,000 project,' he said. Renshaw added the town recently discussed the matter with the lieutenant governor’s office and hopes that engagement will help expedite the state review and allow the town to go out to bid.
Officials said they are considering staging work—prioritizing the inlet and bridge elements and postponing some beach nourishment elements—to stay within existing funds. Town staff and consultants are preparing to move forward if the outstanding state and bridge reviews can be completed without further delay.
No new construction contract was awarded at the Jan. 28 meeting, and the town stressed continuation of permitting and coordination with state offices as the next steps.
