2019 Update #7

Tree Clearing Underway at North End of Project

The 2019 construction season got underway as planned on Thursday morning, in weather that Vermonters like to call “bracing,” with a day of tree clearing at the north end of the project.

Much of the first day’s work focused on clearing trees and brush that line the rail corridor at the back entrance to the Marble Works on Middle Seymour Street. Tree removal in this area will serve a dual purpose, clearing the way for reconstruction of the rail line up to the Elm Street overpass as well as preparing for 2020 construction of the town’s new rail platform and parking area for Amtrak service.

Several sugar maples will be left standing along this stretch as well as a majestic cottonwood that Tree Warden Chris Zeoli estimates at 85 years old. Chris walked the area with me on Thursday to review the work to take place.

As I mentioned earlier this week, tree removal is being performed by Trees Incorporated out of Rutland and will extend over about a two-week period. Hours of operation will be the standard 7 AM – 5 PM, Monday – Friday.

The area to be cleared extends from Middle Seymour Street south to Cross Street along the rail corridor. While the majority of trees to be cleared are on land owned by the State in the railroad right of way, all abutting property owners were consulted in advance.

More Firewood for HOPE

As was the case last year, I’ve arranged for Trees Inc. to donate cleared hardwood trees to HOPE for its emergency firewood shelter on Boardman Street. The cut log lengths will later be cut and split by volunteers. HOPE’s mission, as you may know, is “to improve the lives of low-income people in Addison County by working with individuals to identify and secure the resources needed to meet their basic needs.”

That’s all for today. See you downtown.

Please keep your comments and questions coming. Send me an email at jgish@townofmiddlebury.org and I’ll try to cover it in my next update.