Road Repair Priorities Discussed

The board of selectmen said they hope to get more “bang for their buck” in their plans to fix Grafton roads.

At their Tuesday, June 14 meeting, the board addressed the town's short-term plan to repair Grafton roads, which will start next fiscal year.

Some of the roads that are being considered for repair include Worcester Street, Millbury Street, Old Upton Road and Westboro Road.

The board said the main funds for road repairs will come from Chapter 90 funding. Chapter 90 funding is allocated by the state for road work.

Town Engineer Brian Szczurko said the money from Chapter 90 Funding can be used for new machinery and labor costs. He said the town would use the money in the most fiscally sensible way.

The Department of Public Works will make the repairs in the least disruptive manner, he said. The department will try to "minimize the inconvenience and detours.”

Even though funding will assist the patch-ups, Szczurko said it may not fully cover long-term projects, such as major sidewalk repairs and drainage issues.

However, Town Administrator Timothy McInerney said a little will go a long way.

“The most cost-effective way is to do smaller repairs,” he said.

The board addressed other problems associated with fixing the roads, including speedy drivers.

With newly paved roads, selectman John L. Carlson said fast drivers will pose a danger to the town.

“Residents are saying if we take out all the bumps, people will go 80 miles per hour,” he said.

Despite a couple bumps, the board plans for the roads to provide a smoother ride soon. 

“This is a safety issue,” Carlson said. “This is something we should keep up with and have a plan for.”