Currently viewing the tag: "Bridge Replacement"

Mayor Don Briggs

Once again, thank you to the Community Heritage Day organizers, vendors, entertainers, and town staff for their behind-the-scenes support. The event continues to grow bigger and better every year. The fireworks show was fantastic.

Thank you to the town Parks and Recreation Committee for a wonderful, well attended “Evening in the Park” on July 15. Magician Michael Cantori left a lot of us gasping. Everyone should visit his store on West Main Street, near the Square. Following his show, hot dogs, refreshments, and other entertainment filled the evening schedule.

Thank you to Sherry Waselchalk, the Maryland State Highway project manager, for the bridge replacement; also the Square revitalization and sidewalk projects. We were supposed to have the Square closed for three days and nights, but the work was completed in one evening.

There are a lot of projects happening around town, so here are some updates and estimated dates of completion (EDC):

Pool: Building permit received. Hold up: resubmitted plans for underwater lighting. Now waiting for Frederick County Health Department approvals. EDC: May 2018 (to be open for next summer season).

Dog park: Site behind tennis/ basketball court is cleared. We have applied for a second grant to cover costs. Bidding going out for fencing. EDC: June 2018.

Square revitalization and downtown sidewalk project. EDC: June 2018. Trees to be replaced at locations approved by (fronting) home owners. Different tree varieties, all with no fruit droppings.

Flat Run bridge: delicate work around creek bed. EDC: Fall 2018.

The town was awarded $221,907 from a FY2018 Energy-Water Infrastructure Program (EWIP) grant through Maryland Department of the Environment. The grant funds will be used to replace the pumps at the Creamery Road Pump Station with two energy efficient pumps, a new generator, flow meter, and circulator. The equipment could save the town $6,007 annually in electricity costs.

We are in the process of applying for $100,000 +/- grant for a field for soccer, lacrosse, and rugby.

I had the pleasure to introduce new Congressman, James Raskin, at a recent meet and greet in Emmitsburg. It was good to have Frederick County Council Member Kirby Delauter and Sheriff Chuck Jenkins in attendance. The congressman likes to hike, so I think he will be coming up our way again (and soon).

Congratulations to Vigilant Hose Comapany No. 6 volunteer firefighter Elyssa Cool on being awarded the 2016 Silver Spring Trophy by Maryland State Firemen’s Association (MSFA). The MSFA presented the award on behalf of the sponsor, Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. It is presented each year at the MSFA Annual Convention to an individual who does the most in fire prevention for his/her community. Elyssa received an individual plaque for permanent possession and will hold the trophy for one year and then pass it on. The award is administered by MSFA Fire Prevention Committee and Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office. Thank you, Elyssa, for your service to our community. For more: Link on the MSFA Website – http://www.msfa.org/content/annual/SilverSpringTrophy.cfm.

From what we already know and have felt, but only mused as to why: (from the Wall Street Journal Jan. 17, 2016) bacon prices are up and up 80 percent. Nationwide, we bought 14 percent more bacon in 2016 then 2013. No longer only for BLTs and breakfast sides, bacon is now a standard in a salad mix, as a sprinkling on a cup of soup, or piled regularly on burgers. Move over salmon. The price to wholesalers for pork bellies has risen to $2.10 per pound. Bacon is becoming more of a specialty food item. Look for thinner strips and/or higher prices in restaurants.

Summer reading suggestion: History of My Own Times with a subtitle, The Life And Adventures of William Otter, Sen. Comprising a Series of Events, And Musical Incidents Altogether Original, Emmitsburg 1835, written by William Otter, an English emigrant. Emmitsburg is spelled several ways including “Emmitsburgh” and “Emmettsburg.”It’s a very interesting read.

The third and final “pool party” in Community Park will be held Friday August 18, from 6-8 p.m., featuring hot dogs, drinks, Rita’s Italian Ice, DJ music, and games. Start the weekend off in the park.

“Back to School Day” will be held on Saturday, August 5, from 12:00-3:00 p.m., and will feature school supplies, lots of food, games, and entertainment. Sponsored by Christ’s Community Church.

Groundbreaking for the new Seton Center is August 18 at 3:00 p.m., off E. Lincoln Avenue, west of the Mother Seton School.

This is a great place to live.

by Michele Cuseo

Thurmont

Snow Removal Ordinance Reminder   

As winter approaches, here is a summary review of the Thurmont Snow Removal Ordinance:  All sidewalks are to be cleared of ice and snow within twelve hours after snow has ceased falling.

When removing snow, it should not be pushed into the traveled portion of any public street.  Property owners can be fined for ignoring the snow removal ordinance. Town officials are also requesting that people park cars in their driveways when snow is in the forecast to ensure easy access for the snow plows.

Food Bank and Clothes Closet

Donations for the food bank can be dropped off at the town office and other designated locations around town. There is a need for additional food for the holidays and winter months. Also, warm coats, hats, scarves, and mittens are needed for those in need to make it through this winter. Please drop off items at the Clothes Closet, located at the Thurmont United Methodist Church on 13880 Long Road in Thurmont.     

Sidewalk Construction Update

The State Highway Administration (SHA) construction team is progressing on the sidewalk redesign, which is incorporating  handicap accessibility on all main street walkways. The work will continue on to North Church Street this month. Mayor John Kinnaird requested that the construction team avoid the downtown square area until after the holidays, so Thurmont citizens can enjoy the planned festivities.

View the Town of Thurmont’s website at www.thurmont.com or call the town office at 301-271-7313 for more information.

Emmitsburg

Bridge Replacement Planned

The bridge across the Flat Run area near Jubilee Foods is slated to be replaced in the fall of 2015.  The State of Maryland Highway Administration will replace the bridge that was built in 1912.  The bridge is in need of replacement due to age and issues with flooding. The new bridge will be sturdier and wider and will include a sidewalk on both sides for pedestrians. Originally, the state planned to put in only one sidewalk on one side.  The town asked that the sidewalk be placed on both sides and the state has agreed to the request.  One side of the bridge will be constructed at a time so that traffic can still pass over the bridge, sharing a single lane in both directions.

Town Staff Salary Review

The payroll for town staff was reviewed by the town’s human resource consultant, HR Solutions.  It was determined that some of the town staff is underpaid by as much as fifteen percent, according to current market comparisons. HR Solutions made the report to the town hall commissioners at the meeting on November 17.  Commissioners agreed to take the information under consideration, but took no further action at the November meeting.  The next town hall is scheduled for December 3, 2014.

Free Holiday Parking

Park free in Emmitsburg from December 17-24. As in previous years, the town has offered free parking to the public during the holiday season, and encourage the citizens to shop locally to support our community.

View the Town of Emmitsburg’s website at www.emmitsburgmd.gov or call the town office at 301-600-6300 for more information.