The latest section of sidewalk to be upgraded around Station Place was finished this week, following removal of a tree next to the post office. “We will be putting in a new tree next month,” said First Selectman Henry Tirrell.
The tree was in an unfortunate spot next to the new walks and Tree Warden Matt Klimkosky marked it for removal. A public hearing was called before the tree was removed, where it was explained that, as feared, a major root had been severed while excavating for the new sidewalk.
Meanwhile, he hopes sidewalk work will continue along the west side of Station Place overlooking City Meadow. It is not anticipated that any trees will be harmed there.
Tirrell said funds were allocated for the sidewalk work under the road paving line item in the budget. About $350,000 to $400,000 was designated for paving Old Colony and Laurel Way Ext. with roughly another $50,000 for sidewalk work.
“When Laurel Way is done, we will see if there is more room in the budget for sidewalks,” he said. “We want to replace them anywhere there are those old brick pavers.”
The town also has $47,000 in state Local Capital Improvement Program money that can be applied to local capital projects, including sidewalk upgrades.