HomeMy Public PortalAboutWheeler Ln Neighborhood Informational LetterTOWN OF WATERTOWN
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (P) 617-972-6420
124 ORCHARD STREET (F) 617-972-6402
WATERTOWN MA 02472
Gerald S. Mee Jr.
Superintendent
January 30, 2020
RE: Wheeler Lane Road Reconstruction
Dear Wheeler Lane Property Owner:
The Honorable Town Council approved a list of streets to be reconstructed as part of our 2020 Road Reconstruction
Program, including Wheeler Lane. We are sending you this letter to provide some additional background and
information related to the upcoming work.
What is the scope of work?
The work includes roadway reclamation, a process by which the surface and sub -surface of the road is ground up
and recycled to create a new "base" for the road. The base is then shaped, graded and compacted to accept the new
roadway surface.
In addition to a new roadway surface, granite curbing and concrete sidewalk/aprons will be installed. As part of the
work, a new grass border will be provided that can also accommodate tree plantings. All sidewalk work will
comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. A conceptual plan of the work is attached.
Due various constraints on the street, we will install sidewalk adjacent to the DCR property/fence line only.
WHEELER LANE
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Neighborhood Informational Letter. doc
What is the schedule for work?
The Town is in the process of selecting a contractor to perform the work, in accordance with public bidding laws.
Work is anticipated to be performed during the 2020 construction season (spring through fall 2020) and may also
be completed in spring 2021. Preparatory work including replacement of sewer mains is scheduled for spring 2020.
How will I be notified of the work?
The Town will provide door flyers at least 48-hours prior to the work beginning and at important milestones. Any
impacts to roadway or driveway access will be noted. Due to the nature of the various phases of work and
scheduling of crews, there may be periods where work is not being performed.
What if I want to replace my water or sewer service or install a gas line?
After the road is reconstructed, there is a five year moratorium on new excavations/digging in the road. We
strongly recommend that individuals make any desired utility improvements prior to our work. If you have a
question regarding your water or sewer service, please call the Water Department at 617-972-6420. Questions
regarding gas services should be directed to National Grid, at 1-800-732-3400.
What about street trees?
The Town Tree Warden will evaluate the condition of existing street trees and identify potential locations for new
plantings. Any removal of a non -hazardous street tree will require a tree hearing, in accordance with the Public
Shade Tree law, M.G.L. Chapter 87.
Please consider requesting a street tree in front of your property. To report a concern about a street tree or request a
new one, please contact us at 617-972-6420 or e-mail ddpwdept@watertown-ma.gov. Additional information is
attached.
Will my drivewav be impacted?
Driveways within the work area have been inspected by the Zoning Enforcement Officer (ZEO) for compliance
with the Town's Zoning Ordinance. A notice has been included with this mailing if your driveway opening
requires modification. A brochure summarizing residential driveway requirements is also attached with this letter.
If you wish to relocate, widen, or add a driveway, you must receive approval from the ZEO. Public Works will not
alter driveway openings without an approved plan from the ZEO. Public Works will coordinate work to the
maximum extent practicable, however we cannot change driveway openings once curbing is installed.
If you have any questions regarding driveway openings, please contact the ZEO at 617-972-6427.
If you have any questions in regards to this notice or in regards to the paving project in general, feel free to contact
us at 617-972-6420 or e-mail dpwdeptkwatertown-ma.gov.
Sincerely,
Gerald S. Mee, Jr.
Superintendent
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Neighborhood Informational Letter. doc