The Danvers Select Board meeting on April 1, 2025, highlighted a significant move towards formalizing the acceptance of private roads as public ways, a decision that could impact funding and infrastructure maintenance in the town. The board discussed the need to officially accept approximately 82 streets that have been maintained as public ways but were never formally recognized under Massachusetts General Law. This process is crucial for the town to access Chapter 90 funds, which are allocated for road maintenance and improvements.

The board clarified that this initiative is primarily a paperwork issue, with no involvement from developers, as many of these streets predate current subdivision regulations. The estimated cost for accepting each street is around $8,000, which includes expenses for asphalt planning, surveying, and recording necessary documents.

In addition to road acceptance, the meeting also addressed modifications to utility easements on Cemetery Road and Forest Street. These changes would allow residents to connect new accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to existing water and sewer lines, despite some confusion regarding state laws on utility connections. The board emphasized the importance of having separate utilities for these new units to ensure proper billing and management.

The discussions also touched on annual drainage liability and the need for a new high-pressure flushing and vacuum truck, essential for maintaining the town's wastewater collection system. The current truck, which is over 13 years old, has incurred significant repair costs and has been rented out frequently, leading to a proposal for its replacement.

Overall, the meeting underscored the town's commitment to improving infrastructure and adapting to new housing regulations while ensuring that essential services remain efficient and effective. The board plans to continue these discussions and actions in upcoming meetings, aiming for a smoother process in managing public utilities and roadways.