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Ludlow water board approves credits as residents press for written plan, line replacement
Summary
After months of complaints about discolored and low-pressure water on Thompson Avenue, the Water Commission voted unanimously to credit affected homeowners while pursuing diagnostics, grants and possible bond funding for a line replacement.
The Village of Ludlow Water Commission voted unanimously to issue billing credits for two households on Thompson Avenue after residents described ongoing drinking-water problems and urged a written remediation plan.
Resident Chris Garvey told commissioners, “Flushing the lines never worked. When they flush the lines, it kicks up everything in the line and it hits in our home.” He asked for a firm, written timeline and said he wanted the line replaced, citing both water-quality and fire-safety concerns. Bill Davis added that a hydrant showed low pressure, raising safety worries.
Municipal Manager Penny Wu said the town has been providing bottled water through WB Mason while it awaits the final water report and that the town has applied through A&E for a Clean Water State Revolving Fund grant to address the issue. Wu gave a preliminary cost estimate from A&E “for about $1,000,000 including the sewer and about $500,000 just for the sewer.” She said M&M can place valves to help locate the source when frost conditions permit.
Commissioners discussed options including isolating segments with in-line valves, abandoning some connections and installing blow-offs, and moving ahead with a full line replacement if necessary. The board agreed to investigate whether a bond could be placed before voters at Town Meeting on March 2, 2026 to finance the work. Vice Chair Ron Bixby said the board would move as quickly as practical but noted that frozen ground currently limits excavation.
BJ Donohue moved to issue credits to 15 and 16 Thompson Avenue for 2025 and 2026; Ron Bixby seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Commissioners said credits would be issued while engineering and grant work proceed.
