Acton Town Officials Present New DPW Facility Plan at Public Forum

The Acton Select Board meeting on April 28, 2025, focused on the much-anticipated Department of Public Works (DPW) project, with presentations from Wesson and Sampson and PMA Associates. The meeting served as a public forum to update residents on the project's progress and gather community feedback.

John Cuomo from Wesson and Sampson outlined the project's history, emphasizing the long-standing need for a new DPW facility. The current building, constructed in 1970, has become inadequate for the town's growing population, which has increased from 7,238 in 1960 to over 24,000 today. The outdated facility, originally designed for 36,000 square feet, now operates at just 19,000 square feet, limiting the department's ability to effectively serve the community.

Cuomo highlighted the critical role of the DPW as a first responder, responsible for snow and ice removal, road repairs, and support for other emergency services. The new facility aims to enhance these services and accommodate the department's expanding responsibilities, including managing a fueling station and providing community services like hazardous waste drop-off.

The meeting also addressed the project's timeline, with a ballot question set for the following day to advance the proposal to the upcoming town meeting. The Select Board has been proactive in securing funding for the new facility, with preliminary design work already underway. The community's input will be vital as the project moves forward, ensuring that the new DPW facility meets the needs of Acton's residents.

In addition to the DPW discussions, the meeting included updates on other town initiatives, but the focus remained on the DPW project, which promises to significantly improve public services in Acton. As the town prepares for the upcoming vote, residents are encouraged to engage with the process and voice their opinions on this essential development.