Plymouth Approves $780,000 for Town Wharf Project, Reviews FY2024 Progress
Town Manager Highlights Achievements in Public Safety, Infrastructure, and Community Services
PLYMOUTH, MA - July 9 - The Plymouth Select Board approved $780,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for engineering and design work on a Town Wharf improvement project during their meeting Tuesday. The project aims to enhance the waterfront area by widening sidewalks, creating an elevated boardwalk, and improving coastal structures.
David Gould, Director of Energy and Environment, presented the project to the board. He explained that the improvements would focus on the area between Mabbett’s Park and the roundabout at Town Wharf Way.
"Anyone who's walked this knows the sidewalk is extremely narrow in this location," Gould said. "We also know that it's an extremely busy location during a lot of the year, not only for residents but for tourists."
The proposed design includes an extended boardwalk, an overlook area, and a new revetment and seawall. Gould emphasized that the project would address existing coastal structures that need work, as well as improve roadways, utilities, and pedestrian access.
Town Manager Derek Brindisi presented a comprehensive review of the town's progress on fiscal year 2024 goals. He highlighted several key achievements across various departments.
One significant accomplishment was the expansion of mental health clinicians working with the police department. "We've been able to expand it to a third mental health clinician and now we're able to provide coverage on the weekends as well," Brindisi reported.
The town has also made progress on implementing body-worn cameras for police officers. Brindisi noted that collective bargaining has been completed, and the next step is to identify the specific type of cameras to be used.
Another major achievement was the creation of a new Health and Human Services department. This department has already distributed $250,000 in pharmaceutical settlement funds to local organizations to help mitigate fatal and non-fatal overdoses in the community.
Brindisi highlighted infrastructure improvements, including the paving of 30 miles of roads, doubling the previous benchmark. Additionally, he mentioned the negotiation of a pilot agreement with Holtec for $13 million over eight years, which includes provisions for future land purchases and planning.
The Town Manager praised the success of recent community events, particularly the Fourth of July celebrations. He noted that this year's parade had the largest turnout ever recorded, with no arrests made during the festivities.
"When we talk about this community, it definitely comes together, and not just in the tough times but even in the good times too," Brindisi said.
He also shared a story of a police officer saving a choking baby during the Fourth of July events, emphasizing the importance of well-trained and dedicated first responders.
Select Board members expressed appreciation for the progress made and the efforts of town employees across all departments. They also discussed ongoing challenges, including issues at local ponds and potential housing developments that could impact the community.