ACTON — Town Manager John S. Mangiaratti is pleased to announce that the Town of Acton has received a $75,000 state grant as a part of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ (EEA) Dam and Seawall Program.
On Wednesday, July 28, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that $17.3 million was being given to 28 cities and towns to address failing dams, coastal infrastructure and levees across the Commonwealth.
The Town will use the funding toward the design and construction of the removal of a structurally unsafe dam, at 53 River St. on Fort Pond Brook. Once the dam is removed, the town plans to construct a public park highlighting the industrial history of South Acton Village.
In 2017, The Town acquired the property including the dam following a vote during a Special Town Meeting. The property is a 7.26-acre former industrial site that was used for textile manufacturing in the mid-1800s. On the property, there are remnants of the historic dam and raceway that powered the mill.
In 2018, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Office of Dam Safety (ODS) determined that the dam was structurally unsafe and would eventually need to be mitigated through repair or removal.
“It is crucial for the Town to complete this project and ensure the safety of the people and property downstream,” said Town Manager Mangiaratti. “I am very thankful to the Baker-Polito Administration for providing us with this much-needed funding.”
“I’m grateful to the Baker-Polito Administration for awarding the town of Acton a $75,000 grant from the DCR Office of Dam Safety to remove the dam located on River Street in South Acton,” said State Sen. Jamie Eldridge. “I commend the Acton town officials who have worked for years on this important infrastructure project that will enhance public safety for all residents and improve ecological conditions for fish and other species in the rivers and streams running through Acton.”
“I am so appreciative of the Baker-Polito Administration for awarding Acton with this funding towards the removal of the dam at 53 River St,” said State Rep. Dan Sena. “The dam poses safety and property damage concerns, so the funding brings us closer to ensuring the area surrounding the dam is protected.”
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