By CHARLENE LOVETT
In an area of the nation where winters are long, the arrival of spring is met with great anticipation. Warmer weather means more time outdoors and busy playgrounds. For some, it marks the season for planting and spring cleaning. For others, it brings opportunity for outdoor work. A renewed sense of energy seems to abound, both individually and collectively as a community. Spring for the City of Claremont marks the beginning of the budget season, Earth Day initiatives, outdoor maintenance work and new construction.
At the beginning of May, interim City Manager John MacLean presented his proposed budget to the city council. Working with his department heads over the course of several months, Mr. MacLean presented a budget that is level funded. The council is now reviewing his proposed budget, considering whether to approve the budget as is or make modifications. The final budget will be voted upon in June.
Though the weather proved to be challenging this spring, several projects were completed in recognition of Earth Day. Collaborating with the department of parks and recreation, Stevens High School students cleaned up trash along the rail trail, the Visitors’ Green and numerous parks on April 19. The department of public works (DPW) collected the trash, which amounted to several truckloads. On Saturday, April 20, residents throughout the community took advantage of Tire Day, bringing approximately 1,500 tires to the transfer station at no charge to them. During the last week in April, DPW collected bags of grass clippings and leaves from property owners. On May 5, members and friends of the Claremont-Sugar River Rotary Club picked up more than 10 construction bags of trash along Grissom Lane.
Parks and Recreation personnel are in the process of sprucing up the sports fields and parks. DPW crews are out in full force painting pedestrian crossings, sweeping roads and sidewalks, conducting water and sewer line maintenance, and preparing cemetery grounds for Memorial Day. Coordinating with the department of corrections for additional manpower, DPW completed an in-depth cleaning of the public parking garage
With the arrival of warmer weather, road and sidewalk construction is also in full gear. The reconstruction of Upper Main Street, a multi-million dollar project, will soon be completed. Landscape and new sidewalks along that road will improve streetscape and walkability. Construction of a sidewalk on East Street will soon begin, improving safety for students walking to nearby schools and the community center.
This, however, is just the beginning of what will be happening in the city during the warmer months. Citizens will be engaged in their own beautification projects, whether at home or on public grounds. Flower boxes and plantings in Opera House Square, around city hall and in Broad Street Park will bring color to the historic district. As the weather improves, clean-up projects will continue. After the municipal budget is approved, construction on other roads and sidewalks will begin.
It is exciting to see so much activity in the community, and the collaboration that is taking place to improve Claremont. Thanks to all who have participated in making these improvements.
Charlene Lovett is the mayor of Claremont and welcomes your feedback. Please email questions, comments or concerns to her at [email protected].
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