Sand Cove stormwater project sees progress; 'jellyfish' treatment units and final overlay planned for September

The select board received an update on the Sand Cove stormwater project on Aug. 4. After a contractor delay and rebid, Excavating completed site work and installed initial components, including stormwater treatment cartridges (described in the meeting as "jellyfish chambers") designed to capture the first inch of runoff and reduce bacteria and nitrogen that have previously forced beach closures.

Engineering said the contractor installed the binder course and will return in September to place the final 1.5-inch surface overlay and complete landscaping. Staff noted a few installation issues: two treatment chamber frames were cast at an elevation that left limited field adjustment and one chamber was too low and needs a riser; the team is deciding whether to modify units in the field or seek replacements. Officials said they expect the work to be wrapped up by mid-September, subject to finalized adjustments.

Why it matters: the project aims to improve water quality at Sand Cove and reduce beach closures through targeted runoff treatment; progress and timely completion are important for public health and shoreline access.