Work continues on the footbridge improvement project first proposed by Robert Maroon Jr., owner of the Chowder House, on Sept. 28.

On Tuesday, Nov. 3, 11 town officials and local business owners met with Dan Courtemanch of the Department of Environmental Protection in the footbridge parking lot to discuss possible designs for the project, and what aspects of those projects might influence the DEP permitting process.

“All that really matters to us is the total square feet of additional impact [the project would have],” Courtemanch said.

A few ideas were discussed, including the creation of a wall with steps or a deck and town dock for launching kayaks and providing water access. Vice chairman of the board of selectmen Bill Hamblen asked about the creation of a green space buffer, and if the town would get any credit for doing that.

“I think it’s a great idea and I encourage you to do it but there’s no credit for doing it,” Courtemanch said.

“We need to sit down with public works and the people this project would impact and get their feedback,” Town Manager Tom Woodin said. “There is lots of room for beautifying here, it’s just a matter of money. We come up with a plan and projected costs, then see if the voters want to do it. It’s their decision.”

While everyone is excited about the idea of improvements, Woodin reminded the group that projects like these “take longer than you think.” While there is a possibility such a project could make it onto the town warrant in May, the earliest possible start of such a project would be next fall - and that is a very optimistic timeline.

Even so, according to Hamblen and Maroon, the feedback has been “totally positive” from members of the community. As of now,  it appears the town plans to continue working towards its completion.

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