Town Reports Major Infrastructure Updates in Norwell

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NORWELL – Norwell residents can expect the long-closed boardwalk connecting the middle and high schools to reopen by the end of the year. During the Oct. 29 Select Board meeting, Highway Surveyor and Tree Warden Glenn Ferguson provided a detailed update on the reconstruction, which has been underway since the structure was shut down last November for safety reasons.

Ferguson said the rebuilt walkway uses stronger materials and a design that far exceeds the load capacity of the original. “This is the real deal,” he said, noting the use of four-by-eight beams, improved bracketing, and treated wood designed to last 40 to 50 years. “I kind of promised the Select Board and the public that we’d have it open by the end of the year, and we’re on course to do it,” Ferguson told the board.

The $1.8 million project was funded through Community Preservation Committee (CPC) allocations and town meeting approval. Ferguson said his team performed much of the demolition work in-house, saving an estimated $400,000. The project remains on or under budget, despite a denied state grant.

Select Board members praised the workmanship. Layne said the rebuilt decking feels “almost like concrete,” and far more solid than the old segments.

Ferguson added that future CPC requests will focus on maintaining the eastern boardwalk toward Circuit Street, but the current rebuild should require minimal upkeep. “There is no real maintenance that needs to be done,” he said. Ferguson said engineers advised the wood in contact with ground or water will last its anticipated life 40 to 50 years.

Select Board members used the discussion to emphasize the importance of long-term maintenance funding. Board members agreed to request a written statement from engineers outlining potential long-term maintenance needs.

Ferguson also shared updates on the town’s million-dollar sidewalk and road reconstruction along High Street. The project adds granite curbing, grass strips, and new sidewalks to improve pedestrian safety and slow traffic speeds.

“We are bringing public safety to High Street into Hall Drive,” Ferguson said. Ferguson also noted that it may help reduce traffic speeds because people tend slow down when they see curbing.

Paving is expected to finish in November, with topsoil and seeding to follow. Board members commended Ferguson for working closely with residents to resolve access and mailbox issues during construction.

Ferguson said the town is contending with widespread tree loss caused by disease and age. “We’re taking down 20 to 25 trees a week,” he said. “It’s the biggest concern I have in town. I don’t want to come and tell you we lost a resident because a tree fell.” He added that national utility crews have struggled to keep up with requests for assistance removing dead trees near power lines.

The DPW is prioritizing high-traffic roads while planning for future challenges from tree disease and storm-related debris.

Ferguson highlighted a recent culvert replacement on Wildcat Lane that saved the town about $500,000 by using town crews. He noted the team’s hands-on role in rebuilding the road and installing a new water line sleeve beneath it. The project cost roughly $300,000, half of initial estimates.

He also mentioned coordination with Eversource on gas line work and emphasized his focus on safety, storm preparedness, and efficient use of resources.