DPW Director Flags Concrete Errors in East Milton as Town Approves $6.49 Million Budget
Key Points
- The $6.49 million DPW budget was approved unanimously following concerns about East Milton infrastructure.
- MassDOT identified concrete specification errors responsible for "crumbling" walkways on the new East Milton deck.
- Milton received $1.2 million in Chapter 90 state aid for road repairs this year.
- DPW is integrating sidewalk upgrades with paving projects to maintain ADA compliance.
Town Meeting members approved a $6,495,834 budget for the Department of Public Works (DPW) under Article 11, though the discussion was dominated by concerns over the quality of recent infrastructure projects in East Milton. Member Brian Kelly pointed out significant issues with the newly constructed deck in East Milton, noting that walkways are already crumbling
and pavement in the crosswalks is moving. DPW Director Marina Fernandez confirmed the town has flagged the issue with MassDOT, stating, There was an error in the concrete specifications. MassDOT has identified the panels that need to be replaced.
Director Fernandez, who was thanked by members for her service as she prepares to depart her role in Milton, also updated the body on the town’s road treatment strategy. She noted that the town received $1.2 million in Chapter 90 state funding this year. While the town no longer lists specific streets in the warrant to allow for contractor flexibility, Fernandez confirmed that sidewalk improvements are now being performed in tandem with paving to ensure full ADA compliance. The town has also applied for Complete Streets funding to bring multimodal improvements to Brook Road.
Member Bill White urged the department to continue implementing safety measures like those seen on Governor's Road. I urge the town to use more speed humps... It has slowed traffic to 12-15 mph and increased safety,
White said. The DPW budget passed unanimously by a voice vote of 200 members.
Motion: To appropriate $6,495,834 for Public Works.
Vote: Passed 200-0-0