During a recent government meeting, officials discussed several key infrastructure projects, including the opening of Perry Road following successful work by Cement Tech. The project, which involved significant utility coordination, was praised for its execution and the cooperation of local residents who provided necessary easements.

Attention then shifted to the proposed restroom facility at Macca Park, which has garnered interest from council members. The project is estimated to cost $415,000, with the lowest bid coming in at $490,000, leaving a funding gap of $80,000. The discussion highlighted a preference for reallocating $400,000 in ARPA funds towards the restoration of Howe Road, which has been rated poorly at 38%. The road's condition was described as \"horrible,\" necessitating immediate attention.

The proposed restoration of Howe Road includes reducing it from four lanes to three, maintaining the same width while adding bike lanes. This change aims to improve safety and reduce speeding in the area, particularly near the Freedom Trail crossing. The engineering for this project has already been completed, and officials emphasized the urgency of addressing the road's deteriorating condition rather than waiting for potential grant funding, which could take years.

Budget discussions revealed a total of $3.8 million needed for the Howe Road project, which encompasses road resurfacing, stormwater management, and sidewalk improvements. Officials indicated that the majority of the road program budget would be allocated to this project over the next three years, with minor paving improvements on other roads.

Concerns were raised about the lack of a separate stormwater management fund, which currently generates insufficient revenue to cover extensive projects. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the pressing need for infrastructure improvements, particularly for Howe Road, to enhance community safety and accessibility.