A proposal that would ensure roads are in good condition before they are transferred from the state to municipalities is on its way through the yay or nay process that takes place at the beginning of each legislative session.
And we believe it warrants a yay from the Transportation Committee.
The committee heard testimony earlier this week on LD 67, sponsored by Rep. Andrea Boland, D-Sanford. Following a yet-to-be-scheduled, upcoming work sessions, the committee will make its recommendation.
The bill would require the Maine Department of Transportation to turn over several documents to the municipality upon the transfer, including survey and layout plans pertaining to the roadway; maintenance records for the prior 15 years; information on improvement projects and plans, including funding sources; and any other legal documents pertaining to the road.
A memorandum of understanding would also need to be developed between the DOT and the municipality, detailing improvements necessary to bring the road into good condition. The bill defines good condition as “all improvements necessary to avoid capital and non-routine maintenance activities for a minimum of 10 years.”
One reason the bill was submitted was an issue with a road in Waterboro, which Road Commissioner Douglas Foglio said left the town with a road that is not in proper condition.
In July 1, maintenance of Old Alfred Road in Waterboro was turned over to the town, because the town’s population had surpassed 7,500, according to the most recent census. Maine’s Urban Compact provision kicks in when that population threshold is reached, transferring maintenance responsibility from the state to the municipality.
Foglio, however, was not satisfied with repairs made by the state DOT to the roadway and had several conversations with state officials about it, without a resolution. He said the road wasn’t shimmed when it was paved, which results in problems in the future, and has other deficiencies as well.
Although Boland’s bill would not affect Old Alfred Road, Foglio said it will be important to the town in the future if other roads are turned over.
The bill has garnered bipartisan support, with state Sen. Ron Collins, R-Wells, as a co-sponsor and a member of the Transportation Committee.
We hope the bill will gain support of the full committee and Legislature as it moves forward in the process. There is no reason why the state shouldn’t be able to keep roads in good condition, and certainly ensure they won’t need major work before dumping them into the laps of municipalities. If the tables were turned, the state would likely insist on the same courtesy.
Ӣ Ӣ Ӣ
Today’s editorial was written by City Editor Robyn Burnham on behalf of the Journal Tribune Editorial Board. Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski by calling 282-1535, Ext. 322, or via email at kristenm@journaltribune.com.
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
