Selectmen Close Unsafe Cut-Off

A cut-off at the intersection of Mack Hill, Jones and Dodge Road has been temporarily closed for safety reasons.

The Board of Selectmen voted to temporarily close the cut-off at this week’s meeting after  a recommendation from the Highway Safety Committee and hearing complaints from residents.

Voters will decide whether or not to permanently keep it closed in March.

The safety of this small section of roadway was called into question earlier this month by homeowners who live near the intersection.

Charlie Vars lives on Mack Hill Road, right next to the intersection, and said that it is dangerous for those who own homes close to the cut-off to back out of their driveway. He said that motorists have also driven the wrong way down it.

Bob Rowe lives on Jones Road and said, with the cut-off, he has to turn his head almost 140 degrees to ensure he will not be struck by passing motorists. Rowe said he does not use it because of the danger it presents.

“I don’t think it is necessary, it doesn’t serve a purpose,” said Rowe at this week’s Selectmen meeting.

The cut-off has not been used this summer, since it has been used as a staging area for Mack Hill road work.

DPW Director Bruce Berry agreed that the cut-off should be closed for good at this week’s meeting. He cited not just safety reasons, but also the impact on his already tight budget.

He said that paving the road would cost $4,700, grinding it would cost $470 and to loam it would cost $800.