MARLBORO — To all Marlboro residents: By now you will see work being done on all our roads to repair the storm damage and prepare for winter.
Initially, all efforts were directed to opening all roads in town (especially Ames Hill, Higley Hill, North Pond, Butterfield, Lower Dover, Stratton Hill, and Adams Brook) and to rescue residents who were totally cut off by the enormous flooding on the Branch Brook.
The town is contracting with various heavy equipment operators to supplement the road crew to get the work done. We have had numerous discussions with road foreman David Elliott and feel confident that the work will be done before it snows.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will look at the entire scope of the work needed to bring conditions back to where they were before the storm. FEMA will come up with an estimate for the total cost, then pay 75 percent of that bill. To date, we have found the FEMA representatives on the ground to be very responsive and helpful to work with.
A word about work on the stream beds:
Work on Whetstone Brook is being done by the state. Our crew has been working in and along the Branch Brook on Augur Hole Road. State engineers have been consulted as the work has progressed, and they have signed off on what has been done to date. Restoration will take time since virtually everything washed away in many places.
Even though you do not see the road crews working on your road, remember they have prioritized the reconstruction. We thank you for your patience and support, and request that you drive with special care while the roads are being repaired.
The Marlboro Alliance is planning a big celebration and potluck dinner in early December.
Questions about the roads should be directed to the Marlboro Town Garage at 802-257-0252. Let's all hope for a long fall and late snow!