FARMINGTON — Selectmen Tuesday evening, Nov. 23, requested more information on a Maine Department of Transportation proposal to restripe Route 2, known as the Wilton Road.
A meeting was held recently with Public Works Director Philip Hutchins, Waller and the regional transportation manager and engineer regarding a previously brought up proposal to restripe a section of the road. Proposed is creating a single driving lane in each direction with a middle turn lane in each direction.
With the proposal’s significant change and past history, Waller wanted the board’s input. (MDOT) needs to know by January, he noted.
“We have heard some previous citizen input on the topic, having a turning lane, single lanes in either direction,” Bunker said. “I’m not sure that attitude has changed.”
“Something needs to be done,” Selectman Scott Landry said. “I’m not sure that’s the answer at this time. I certainly wouldn’t want to be painting the road now and covering it with snow and slop, expect people to know what’s going on.”
Other options such as roundabouts may provide time and safety enhancements without changing the current system, Waller said. The study for the current proposal projects adding 20 seconds to travel from Hannaford to the Wilton town line, he noted.
“I would like to see it on paper before I go too far with it,” Landry said.
“I’m open to more information,” Bunker said. “The original proposal was not well received, there were concerns. I am sure I am not alone in being concerned about traffic trying to turn left across traffic. It is a real danger issue.”
A copy of the updated plan, which Waller has, will be brought to the next discussion.
The section of roadway from the former Labonville to where Farmington Ford was stood out in discussions that Selectman Michael Fogg had with people when road changes were previously proposed.
That area plus just past the hospital are areas of concern for 18-wheelers trying to get up to speed, he noted.
(MDOT) is aware of the issue, has a plan in place to have a truck lane where it would be safe to combine and not be on a hill, Waller said.
“Did they talk much about pedestrian safety, having wider breakdown lanes on each side of traffic,” Foster asked. “There’s always people walking.”
It wasn’t part of the discussion but could be addressed, Waller said.
“It is a concern, there’s no sidewalk,” Bunker said.
“We need to take a look at the whole thing,” Landry said.
When brought up again, interested citizens should attend or plan to watch the meeting, live streamed by Mt. Blue Community Access TV, Bunker noted.
In other business, Selectmen approved a gift of $100,000 given by Judith Bjorn to the Parks and Recreation Department.
Farmington Parks and Recreation Department has received a $100,000 gift from Judith Bjorn. Previous gifts from the Bjorns have been used for new flooring of the Community Center gym, grandstand seating, lighting and curtains. Aiden Wilkins of Farmington dribbles in the gym in this file photo. Donna M. Perry/Sun Journal file photo
“Probably the best Monday-morning phone call I ever received,” Recreation Director Matthew Foster said. “I didn’t really say much on the phone. It was quite a shock, but not really. The Bjorns have been extremely supportive of the department for a lot longer than I’ve been here.”
Mr. Shible (former director) had a very good relationship with them, Foster noted.
“Use this $100,000 check to support your many programs for youth and families,” Foster read from Bjorn’s letter, continuing, “I’ve been a lifelong resident of Farmington and have a strong belief in providing healthy activities to our community. My wish is that you use my gift to enhance and continue your excellent programs.”
At Foster’s request, the money will be put in an escrow account while determining how best to use the funds. He would like to meet with Town Manager Christian Waller and Bjorn to discuss her visions or thoughts, then talk about possibilities with the Recreation Committee.
“This is a lot of money that you don’t want to make knee jerk reactions with,” Foster said. “I am a big fan of careful consideration and planning for the long term benefit.”
Spending proposals would be brought before the board, he noted.
“The Bjorns have been great benefactors,” Selectman Stephan Bunker said. “I can think back to several projects.”
“They’ve assisted with the floor, the grandstand seating, helped with the curtains, lighting, different things at the Community Center,” Foster said. “They built us a new park in town.”
“It shows how much (the Bjorns) care about the community, they value the community and what we do,” Foster said. “I think not only the Rec Department but selectmen, taxpayers, everyone are really thankful for their generosity.”
Selectmen also approved adding Jyssica Boudreault to the license already held by Cory Boyker for a medical marijuana store at 184 Farmington Falls Road.
Terry S. Bell was approved as an alternate member for the Zoning Board.
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