Dying to water the grass? That was the talk at the Select Board’s meeting Monday as David Manugian, the Department of Public Works Director, presented updates on a proposed irrigation system at Shawsheen Cemetery.
Portions of the cemetery grass have withered in recent years, and officials think irrigation is the long-term solution.
After meeting with a contractor this past fall, Manugian said that the approximate costs for irrigation remain around $1 million. DPW aims to establish a design team, including an architect, in 2021 and design the improvements for the following two years. This plan projects a tentative first phase of construction to take place between 2024 and 2026.
After fielding questions from the Select Board members, Manugian explained that the cost reflects the need for higher water pressure. As memorial stones and other obstacles will likely impede water flow, Manugian explained that the increased pressure would help ensure all the grass is watered.
Success with Solid Waste Recycling Program
In addition to the proposed irrigation system at the cemetery, Manugian also presented an update on the solid waste recycling program.
The director explained that due to the effect of Covid-19, DPW adjusted recycling strategies to meet increasing demand for composting. The department utilized a private-public partnership with Black Earth, a curbside compost service, to help with DPW’s food waste diversion initiative.
Since building the partnership, 41 additional residents enrolled with Black Earth. The increased number of households taking part in the program, now totaling 224, has lowered the program’s annual charge by $30, now only costing residents $69.99.
Manugian said the company reported collecting over 60 tons of food waste in 2020. Select Board member Emily Mitchell added that Black Earth presents benefits to those even with “at-home composting” as the company can collect and compost food waste like bone and fat.
The successes with recycling were not limited to the extended partnership with Black Earth, Manugian added. In October, throughout four Saturdays, the town collected 33 tons of material. Furthermore, the compost center collected an estimated 400 tons of yard waste, and town departments diverted 40.5 tons of scrap metal and 5.7 tons of wood.
The DPW is also focusing on planned capital projects, including sidewalks, shoulders, and easements. It was noted that any takings require town meeting approval.
Upcoming projects include the Minuteman Bikeway extension; the reconstructed intersection of North and Chelmsford Roads; the South Road sidewalk; upgrading the water system, including fixes to water meters and water billing; and various construction projects through the spring and summer.
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