hopkinton-independent-logo2x
Hopkinton, MA
loader-image
Hopkinton, US
7:06 pm, Saturday, May 24, 2025
56°F
70 %
Wind Gust: 8 mph

SIGN UP TODAY!
BREAKING NEWS & DAILY NEWSLETTER





Letter to the Editor: Put all downtown utilities underground

by | Sep 28, 2021 | Letter to Editor

First of all, I just want to say that I am fully supportive of the Downtown Project and I appreciate all of the hard work that everyone has put into it. When it’s done, Hopkinton will have a truly unique downtown with its beautiful bike path, sidewalks, trees, etc.

However, I do have a concern about the above-ground utilities. If you look at the current state of the project, you can see that only half of it, from the Town Common to the police station, will have the utilities underground. The other half, from the police station to Wood Street, will remain above ground, as you can see from the new utility poles that were recently installed. This seems unwise to me, since, if those utilities are put underground in the future, the nice sidewalks, curbs, bike route and road will need to be dug up again. Now I know the original plan was to underground the entire project, but the original plan was voted down at an Annual Town Meeting.

So, I do believe that it’s not too late to modify the plan and I would like to suggest two options. The first option is to present an article at the next ATM for the additional money needed, which I would hope that the town citizens support. And the second option would be to not do this section yet.

My hope is that the whole length will be put underground as part of this project. This town has done the right thing in the 26 years that I have been a resident, with new schools (3), police and fire stations, and a library. So let’s do the right thing for this project.

— Dave Paul, Hopkinton

Editor’s note: The opinions and comments expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Independent. Submissions should be no more than 400 words and must include the writer’s name and contact information for verification. Letters should be relevant and not primarily for the purpose of promoting an organization or event. Letters may be edited by the Independent staff for space, errors or clarification, and the Independent offers no guarantee that every letter will be published. For a schedule of deadlines for letters and other submissions for the print edition, click here.

0 Comments

Related Articles

Letter to the Editor: Kizner, Mannan for Select Board

One of my first memories of Matt Kizner is him walking up to the mic and asking a question of one of our town leaders. He was new to town at the time, yet cared enough and was courageous to cut through the chase. I continue to see the ability to process...

Letter to the Editor: Doyle for Select Board

I’m writing to support Jeff Doyle for the Hopkinton [Select Board]. Jeff grew up in town and is now choosing to raise his own family here, it's clear he has made a commitment to this community. He is concerned about our commercial base, the budget, clean water and...

Letter to the Editor: Mannan for Select Board

I am writing to enthusiastically endorse Shahidul Mannan for Select Board. I have had the privilege of knowing Shahidul, and I can say with full confidence that he possesses the intelligence, integrity and dedication that our community needs in its leadership....

Letter to the Editor: Mannan, Kizner for Select Board

As we approach Election Day, I want to take a moment to remind all Hopkinton residents to vote on May 19. The truth is, you have more control, influence and access to local politics versus anything you see on TV about national issues. And local officials have more...

Letter to the Editor: Doyle for Select Board

I am writing this letter to ask you to vote for Jeff Doyle and his ideals to become a member of the Hopkinton Select Board. Like many others who have written to endorse Jeff, I have known him for a very long time. To be honest, I’ve known him since the July Fourth...

Letter to the Editor: Doyle for Select Board

I’m writing to express my support for my husband, Jeff Doyle, for the Select Board. As his wife, I’m lucky to know Jeff’s heart better than most. But for those who don’t, I’d like to share why I believe he’s the kind of person we need leading our town. Jeff knows...

Key Storage 4.14.22