Residents press town to press state on Ashwood Veil washout and trespass risks
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Summary
Residents told the Selectboard the Ashwood Veil washout has produced unsafe conditions and repeated trespass; board and staff said they will draft a letter asking state agencies for on-site timing, liability information, and consideration of temporary barriers while longer repairs await funding.
A resident asked the Selectboard for an update on a major washout at Ashwood Veil, reiterating concerns about safety, frequent trespassing and a lack of clear state coordination on repairs.
Town staff said Jennifer (a state contact) and Representative Rhodes have been engaged and that a written response will request three items from the state: (1) a scheduled date when state crews will visit the site, (2) confirmation of the state's planned 2026 work and whether that remains on schedule, and (3) an assessment of liability and whether temporary Jersey barriers or other protections can be deployed at the north end to limit trespass.
Residents said the washout is deep and dangerous, and one family reported an incident in which a passer-by threatened legal action over injuries. Staff said FEMA previously provided a rough damage estimate of about $500,000 with 80% coverage, but the town had not yet received a formal FEMA notification on current eligibility. The board said it will draft the letter, copy the resident and continue to press state agencies for a coordinated site visit and interim protections.