Voting in favor of road upgrades on August 19 is a ‘win-win-win’

On August 19, voters will be asked to approve Article 8 (Ballot Question 1), which requests $27.5 million for road maintenance, sidewalk repairs, and traffic safety. This program was approved by over 90% of voters at Town Meeting. Unfortunately, the “Arguments Against” section sent to voters contains incorrect and misleading information:

1. At public hearings, it was clearly explained how we got here. For over a decade, Public Works has warned that continued underfunding would lead to deteriorating roads and a growing backlog of repairs. As people did not look at these mounting liabilities, it was just so easy to kick the can down the road. As a result, the backlog has grown to over $20 million, and if we continue at the current rate of $2.5 million annually, it will exceed $37 million in 10 years. The current program is already funded by debt, specifically short-term debt, which carries higher annual payments than the proposed long-term debt. At Town Meeting, it was noted that the average taxpayer would save about $1,500 over 10 years with the proposed plan and enjoy a $150 lower annual tax burden thereafter.
2. Public Works developed a 10-year plan showing how road maintenance will resume after the five-year catch-up period. This was presented extensively in commission meetings and public hearings. With improved road conditions, maintenance needs and costs will decline.

Acton is reaching a tipping point: Within three to five years, roads will deteriorate faster than we can fix them. Delaying action would multiply future costs, as failed roads are six to eight times more expensive to repair. Without increased funding, the backlog will rise to $37 million in 10 years. The proposed plan reduces that to $9 million, delivering better roads, improved safety, and lower tax liabilities. That’s a win-win-win.

Sven Weber

Belknap Street

The author is a member of the Public Works Commission, writing on his own behalf.