Select board approves grant-funded Malone Road Accessible Trail contract; town to front short-term costs for reimbursement

The Hubbardston Select Board on Jan. 21 authorized the town administrator to sign a contract for the Malone Road Accessible Trail project, a grant-funded effort the Open Space Committee has led to add an accessible ramp and viewing platform.

Why it matters: The project adds an accessible route and overlooks at a town-owned trailhead; the Open Space Committee and staff said the work is fully grant-funded though the town may initially front a small portion of costs pending reimbursement.

Project overview: The Open Space Committee solicited bids and received five responses; the low bidder was Terramor. Town staff said the work includes a handicapped-accessible ramp and a raised viewing platform near “Dotty Rock.” The packet included drawings showing the proposed route from the parking area to the overlook, and committee members said they plan a later, separate effort to fund and engineer the overlook platform if it cannot be included within the grant budget.

Funding and contract: Committee members said the project is being advanced with grants and that the town previously authorized the committee to apply for the funds; the board approved a motion authorizing the town administrator to sign the contractor agreement and said the town will temporarily front a modest amount (the board noted an example $40,000 fronted for reimbursement in process) with reimbursements to follow.

Motion and vote: A motion to approve the Malone Road Accessible Trail contract and to authorize the town administrator to sign was moved, seconded and carried by voice vote.

Next steps: With the signed contract the committee expects work to be scheduled and permit/engineering details finalized. Committee members said they will pursue a separate funding source to add or engineer a separate overlook platform if needed.