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Historic-preservation commission asks for archaeology study for proposed bridge site
Summary
The historic-preservation commission requested additional cross-sections, elevations and a Phase I archaeological survey for a proposed bridge project near the Stone Bridge, a requirement that board members said could be costly and constrained by limited summer availability of qualified professionals.
The select board discussed a request from the state historic-preservation commission for more detailed documentation and an archaeological study related to a proposed bridge near the Stone Bridge.
Greg Mallister relayed that the commission asked for additional cross-sections and elevations and suggested an archaeology study of the land where the new bridge would be sited. Board members said Phase I archaeological surveys can be expensive and that only a few qualified professionals in the state can perform them during the summer months, which could delay project work if the study is required.
Members debated whether a restoration-only approach for the existing stone-arch bridge might avoid intrusive surveying; staff indicated the commission’s concern arises from a predictive model that flagged likely prehistoric archaeological sites in the area. The board asked staff to check with commission contacts to clarify the scope and cost of any required survey before moving forward with project plans.
No decision was made at the meeting; the board directed staff to follow up with the preservation commission and report back.
