Residents: Which of these town projects are important to you?
The Long Range Capital Planning Committee is looking for feedback from the community on which projects it should be prioritizing over the next several years.
To gauge community interest, a short survey is available to rank 10 projects from Community Services Projects, Public Schools Projects and Public Works based on what residents deem most important. Additionally, there is an opportunity to submit written feedback to the committee.
Link to survey: bit.ly/LongRangeCapital
The results of the survey will be presented at three in-person, public workshops this September, focusing on Community Services Projects, Public Schools Projects and Public Works Projects.
Community Services: Tuesday, Sept. 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Council on Aging
Maria Connor Center for Active Living (COA). Upgrades to the Dartmouth Council on Aging are underway. Phase 1, which includes a new kitchen and enhanced gather spaces, is in progress. Phase 2 will focus on a general renovation.
Recreation Center. The town conducted a feasibility study in 2019, identifying the need and desire for a recreation center in Dartmouth.
Memorial Stadium. Repairs and upgrades are necessary to ensure continued community use and safety for those using the stadium.
Schools — Over the next 20 or so years: Wednesday, Sept. 17 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Dartmouth Middle School
High schools Rood & Windows. Dartmouth High School’s roof and windows have reached their expected life and must be replaced to maintain a safe and effective learning environment.
Middle School. The Middle School, constructed in 1955, needs replacement. A plan to build a new Dartmouth High School on that site and turn the current High School into a middle school is being considered.
DeMello & Potter School. DeMello and Potter Schools, both built in the 1950s, are slated for replacement. Planning is expected to begin in 2030 and 2035, prioritized by the condition of each building.
Quinn School. Quinn is expected to need important repairs by 2040 to maintain a safe and effective learning environment.
Public works: Thursday, Sept. 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. North Branch Library
Drinking Water Treatment Facility. As regulations change and the town creates more housing, a significant strain is put on Dartmouth’s water supply treatment facilities, which must be upgraded to accommodate new growth.
Wastewater Collection & Treatment Infrastructure. The existing Wastewater Treatment Facility has reached its permitted capacity and many elements of the 37-year-old facility need to be replaced.
Padanaram Bridge. Dartmouth is working with the state on design plans for a new bridge, which the state is funding. The construction timeline and funding are still uncertain. It was noted it may be a risk to the town to wait for state funding due the bridge’s current condition.