The Maine Department of Transportation is set to undertake a significant project in downtown Dover-Foxcroft this coming summer. The corner of East Main and South Street (Route 15 and Route 7) is slated for widening to facilitate easier turns for tractor trailer trucks. This is a crucial step in the pre-construction process, as approved during a meeting on Monday, Dec. 16. Town Manager Jack Clukey emphasizes that such projects are routine for the DOT. Per the agreement, if MDOT needs to use local roads for the project and equipment weight limits exceed municipal limits, the town will make reasonable accommodations. However, given the project's location at the intersection of two state highways, this scenario is unlikely.

Traffic Improvements and Accommodations

The widening of the intersection will address issues faced by tractor trailer trucks making turns on and off Route 7. Town Manager Jack Clukey is willing to be reasonable with MDOT to accommodate the project and issue permits if needed. This shows the town's commitment to facilitating necessary infrastructure improvements while considering the needs of all parties.In other business, the Dover-Foxcroft Select Board approved a $23,300 bid by DM&J Waste for the demolition and disposal of a dwelling at 130 Pleasant Street. The property had been a source of concern due to its deteriorating condition and being an eyesore. Code Enforcement Officer Brian Gaudet had previously reported issues such as a collapsing roof and garage and a sinking front porch. DM&J Waste had previously worked on a similar job at 11 Grange Street.The administrative committee also met to discuss the 2025 implementation of Maine Paid Family Medical Leave and the 1 percent payroll tax. Many area towns split the cost between the municipality and the employee, and this is the recommendation of the administrative committee. Select Vice Chair Cindy Freeman Cyr noted that it is a new initiative and could change in the future. Select Chair Tom Lizotte updated the board on the town manager search process. Clukey is departing in early January after more than two decades in the position. Over two dozen applications have been received, and the first interviews will take place this week. It is unlikely that a successor will start in January, with February being a more likely timeframe.During public comment, Manda Stewart from the Piscataquis Area Community Center gave an update. The organization is working to fill the void left by the closure of the Piscataquis Regional YMCA. A walkthrough with mediators and representatives of the PACC and the Old Town Orono YMCA was conducted, and the plan is to open on Feb. 1. The PACC is awaiting final approval to become a non-profit. Reopening the pool may coincide with the opening, depending on the transaction timeline.In his report, Town Manager Clukey mentioned an engineering study proposal from Kleinschmidt Associates of Pittsfield to be presented to the Mayo Mill Dam Review Committee on Wednesday, Dec. 18. The study looks at the feasibility of rehabilitating and restarting the mill hydro facility. The Mayo Mill Dam Review Committee was formed after a referendum vote in June to reject removing the dam. The committee has approved an engineering study bid at $19,200 to assess previous studies and potential hydropower generation. While the financial implications are uncertain due to variables, the town could face a significant project cost. The dam needs to be in compliance with FERC requirements and a plan is due by June 30, 2025. Restoring hydropower at the dam is remote due to lack of viable options, but efforts have been made over the years with consultants and a private developer.Finally, the MDOT held a meeting on the Lincoln Street bridge project on Dec. 4. The bid date is set for late 2025, with work starting in early 2026 and completion in late 2027. The PCEDC also received a grant from the Maine Connectivity Authority to fund digital literacy efforts in the region, and the council will inform the public about related programs.