Madison Board Of Finance Funds Boston Post Road Improvements, Discusses Garvan Point

The Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program grant will fund significant infrastructure upgrades in Madison.
MADISON, CT — The Madison Board of Finance last month approved a $1,845,600 Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) grant for sidewalk and crosswalk improvements along Boston Post Road. The Board of Selectmen had approved accepting the grant in January, and the motion to approve the grant was passed with a unanimous vote.
During the Feb. 18 meeting, Stacy Nobitz, Finance Director, noted that $24,000 in town funds associated with the project were for planning and engineering, approved through CIP or the Planning Reserve. Fire Marshal Sam Deburra added that the local Traffic Authority included additional beacon crosswalks, costing approximately $20,000, which will be the Town’s responsibility. Deburra also stated that two utility poles needing relocation should be covered by the grant.
Project engineers have been in contact with the State regarding the timeline, with a goal to go out to bid in the coming months. Nobitz reported that the town has spent approximately $140,000 on planning and engineering as its portion so far.
In another discussion, finance board member John Rasimas reported that Madison’s pension plans are well-funded compared to other towns, but the OPEB (Other Post-Employment Benefits) plan needs attention in the next budget session. Rasimas also mentioned an upcoming comprehensive public input summary on the Surf Club from a consultant.
Board member Bob Donahue updated the board on the Madison 200th Committee, noting that a mailer went out regarding scheduled events and the committee is seeking sponsors.
Board member Judith Hession also reported that the Library Trustees will present to the Board of Finance next week and are planning several fundraisers.
Rob Reinhardt, also a board member, highlighted health insurance costs as a significant budget issue for both the Board of Education and the Town.
Also, during the public comment portion of the meeting, resident Andy Vallombroso, raised concerns about the Garvan Point sea wall project. He stated that he believes the project has not had proper inspections and that payment should not have been made without them. Vallombroso said he contacted the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the state agency that issued the permit, and a representative observed defects and a potential code violation at the site.