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Merrimac disability commission raises accessibility concerns as Mill Street project stalls and residents report uncleared sidewalks
Summary
Commissioners discussed sidewalks on East Main Street that residents say are not being cleared of snow, noted enforcement under the town sidewalk bylaw, and heard that the Light Department's Mill Street project is on hold after federal funds were withdrawn.
The Merrimac Commission on Disability on March 4 discussed accessibility problems tied to local sidewalk maintenance and a stalled Light Department project.
Residents raised concerns that sidewalks on East Main Street had not been cleared after snow events. Chairman Christopher Gaudet said the commission should encourage property owners to help clear sidewalks to assist the Department of Public Works. The minutes note that property owners are required to remove snow but that the town also has responsibility, and that the sidewalk bylaw is enforceable by the police department.
Commission member Robert Sinibaldi said the town-owned sections of Route 110 may involve MassDOT for maintenance and suggested the resurfacing of East Main Street should be examined in next year’s paving plan. Sinibaldi told the commission he will look into the paving plan and timeline ahead of the next meeting.
Separately, the commission reviewed an email from the Light Department stating its plans are not finalized and that the Mill Street project is on hold because federal funding was withdrawn; the department is aware of accessibility and sidewalk concerns. The minutes do not specify when the Light Department expects to restart planning or restore federal funding.
The commission recorded no votes on these items and directed staff and commissioners to follow up; the meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
