Chris Pelletier, Nederland Public Works Manager. The Streets Division of the Public Works Department in Nederland is responsible for over 17 lane miles of roadways in Nederland, over three miles of sidewalks, parks, and all public facilities. Streets staff is also responsible for all its own vehicle and equipment maintenance. The Streets Division is committed to providing the highest level of service to residents through improved grading and snow removal techniques.

Public works will emphasize improving pavement at various locations in town. Improving drainage and storm water management is also a priority of the department. Other efforts include tracking waste diversion at all town facilities. Efforts are ongoing to reduce power consumption and trying to reduce operating costs. 

Here are some of the accomplishments of 2020:

Nederland is employing environmentally friendly road stabilization techniques to improve the longevity of non-paved roads in town.

Public Works acquired a paving machine and trained in paving operations.

Conger Street and the entrance to the Community Center was paved by staff.

Added a part-time sustainability coordinator.

Secured grant funding to add a high speed EV charging station.

Completed the development of electrical to support future events.

Added a bus shelter on Hwy 119/72.

This year, we are continuing work outlined in the Master Infrastructure Plan, along with following Board objectives including goals within the Comprehensive Plan. The TIP project will be a big focus of the Department as well. 

Some of the projects include:

Public Works will continue to employ an innovative technique to stabilize dirt roads. Big Springs Drive drainage will continue to be a focus of the department this year.

Construction of a wetland at Fisherman’s lot will begin.

The Department will be working on a design for a sidewalk project and paving at the Visitors Center parking lot and Jefferson Street.

Hope to make improvements to Guercio Field.

Continue to make paving improvements.

Public Works Streets Division is looking forward to a productive 2021 and hope to make significant improvements that provide the highest level of service to our residents. 

(Originally published in the December 31, 2020, edition of The Mountain-Ear.)