From the First Selectman
The Ashford Road bridge over Bigelow Brook project is moving along quickly. With changes to reimbursement procedures from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CT DOT), along with changes to the contracts originally signed by the towns, Eastford and other participating towns now must assume many responsibilities previously handled by CT DOT. These responsibilities include financing the project in stages and then seeking reimbursement from the state.
To help manage this process and ensure Eastford maintains adequate cash flow, the town has advertised for a financial advisor to review the funds and cash flow currently available to the town. We are also exploring a line of credit that we could use, if necessary, during peak periods of the reimbursement process.
Many surrounding towns have already been through, or are currently going through, this same process. We are learning from one another and working closely with the financial administrators at NECCOG to navigate these new requirements as effectively as possible.
Construction of the Ashford Road bridge is currently scheduled to begin April 1, 2027. The town will post detour route information on its website as it becomes available. One year after construction begins on the Ashford Road bridge, construction is expected to begin on the Old Colony bridge over Bungee Brook.
I want to take a moment to recognize and thank the phenomenal people who work for the Town of Eastford. Every day, our employees give 110 percent to ensure that our town runs smoothly, efficiently, and effectively. Much of their work happens behind the scenes — work the public may never see or fully realize. For that reason, I want to give all of our town employees a well-deserved standing ovation and a heartfelt thank-you for everything they do for Eastford and its residents. Your dedication, commitment, and hard work do not go unnoticed. We truly appreciate everything you do for our town!
The Town Treasurer and Deputy Treasurer positions have been filled. Amy Whitehouse has been appointed to fill the remainder of Martha Burgess’ term, and Amy Pond has been appointed to fill the Deputy Treasurer position vacated by Kym Cyr. Welcome to the awesome Eastford employee team!