During a recent meeting of the Southborough Trails Committee, discussions centered on the ongoing challenges related to the construction of a new bridge as part of the project’s second phase. The committee is currently facing delays due to unresolved concerns from the structural engineer regarding the bridge's height in relation to the hundred-year flood level.

The engineering firm Beals and Thomas is collaborating with the structural engineer to address these concerns, which include potential liability issues if the bridge is not adequately elevated to withstand flooding. The committee is exploring options to conduct a hydraulic study to better understand water levels, but financial constraints are complicating this effort. Dave Lapointe from Beals and Thomas is attempting to engage with the Massachusetts Water Authority (MWA) for insights that could help mitigate these concerns without incurring additional costs.

A significant point of contention is the proposed height of the bridge. While the goal is to ensure the bridge remains safe during extreme weather events, there are complications regarding how high it should be built. Raising the bridge could lead to it being higher than the adjacent road, which raises further design issues, particularly concerning the abutments that have already been approved by conservation commissions.

Committee members expressed the need for clarity on the height requirements and the implications of potential changes. The discussion highlighted the unique nature of the waterway, which is controlled by the MWA, allowing for some level of flood management. However, the unpredictability of natural elements, such as falling branches, remains a concern.

The committee emphasized the urgency of resolving these issues to move forward with bidding for the project. The next steps involve further discussions with the structural engineer to ensure that all parties are comfortable with the proposed design and its implications for safety and liability. As the committee navigates these challenges, the outcome will significantly impact the timeline and feasibility of the bridge construction, which is a critical component of the Southborough Trails project.