Public works projects move ahead — A 2,100-foot replacement of an aging water main with a 12-inch pipe to improve water quality and system reliability along State Road A1A from Ocean Avenue south to Thompson Street in Ocean Ridge should break ground in mid-March.
The Phase 4 water main project will replace all customer service lines and install new hydrants to meet current standards.
In regards to repairing the Hudson Avenue sea wall, Ocean Ridge received notice of a recommended federal funding share of $400,235 contingent on final FEMA approval. Town staff anticipated having a contract by April.
Sea grapes removed — The Police Department is investigating the recent removal/trimming of sea grape and other vegetation at the Porter Street beach crossover. Police Chief Scott McClure said a contractor may have performed work without permits over a weekend at the Portofino condominiums.
“That’s a sore subject,” Mayor Geoff Pugh said when a resident mentioned the trimming. “It took us almost 15 years to get them that tall.”
The matter is under further review to determine if the trees were maintained on the town right-of-way or on private property, and is now scheduled for a special magistrate hearing on April 7. Town Manager Michelle Heiser says the state Department of Environmental Protection is also investigating.
Honor your elders — Ocean Ridge commissioners honored two senior citizens at their March 2 meeting. They approved a measure dedicating Ocean Ridge Linear Park to former Commissioner Betty Bingham, who is 96 years old.
They also read a proclamation for Thomas Ambrose, who turned 100 on Feb. 14 and was present at the meeting.
— John Pacenti
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