River Signs to be Posted

By Kim Siebert MacPhail

At Monday’s meeting, the Selectmen unanimously approved a proposal to install signs at bridges or overpasses where Bedford’s roadways intersect with rivers and brooks. The signs identify ten different waterways and are part of an effort to increase sensitivity to water resources. The initiative is authorized by the Clean Water Act through a permit with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and is the result, locally, of collaboration between Department of Public Works engineer Adrienne St. John and Conservation Administrator Elizabeth Bagdonas. According to a memo from Town Manager Reed, “the cost and installation of the signs will be covered by the Department of Public Works.”

The signs will be placed on one side of the street only,to be seen from the direction of those entering town. There will be a total of 26 signs: Concord River (2), Shawsheen River (6), Elm Brook (5), Mongo Brook (2), Hartwell Brook (2), Mill Brook Tributary (1), Peppergrass Brook (1), Vine Brook (2), Spring Brook (3), and Beaver Brook (1).

According to Town Manager Rick Reed, under the current sign bylaw the Selectmen are permitted to authorize special informational signs.Selectman Bill Moonan voiced a concern about additional signposts, particularly on The Great Road, requesting that if a pole in the correct position already exists, the river sign be placed there rather than on an individual pole. “I realize we are not captains of our own ship,” Moonan said, “but there are just way too many signs on the Great Road. It’s out of control. The objective isn’t displeasing to me but the execution is just mind-boggling.”

The Selectmen ultimately voted to allow “up to” 26 signs after reaching an understanding that the DPW would use discretion and install new posts only if they are necessary.