Salmon Brook Sidewalk Raises Concerns as Surveying Occurs

A new sidewalk system running from the center of Granby to Salmon Brook Park is amongst residents on the affected portion of Salmon Brook Street. Surveying for the project has been conducted in August.

While previous concerns were centered on the tricky issue of responsibility for snow removal, questions were recently raised about the path of the sidewalks.

Sharon Alleman, who lives along the part of Salmon Brook Street that is having sidewalks added, is worried that a tree planted by her husband to commemorate their marriage, which has grown for almost 14 years, will be removed because it is close to the road and possibly in the sidewalk’s path. Other residents on that street may be affected as well.

Alleman also pointed out that a neighbor is in a similar situation. A tree apparently in the sidewalk's path was planted for that neighbor's deceased infant child more than a decade ago.

Alleman was also concerned that announced meetings with property owners who are affected by the sidewalks wouldn’t happen, but Town Manager Bill Smith said those meetings will occur after a final report from surveying crews is received by the town.

“It made little sense to have a meeting before the sidewalk is planned,” Smith said, noting that a path has to be planned before changes, alterations or other concerns could be considered.

He was sensitive to Alleman’s concern about the two meaningful trees that may stand in the path of the sidewalk.

“Maybe it’s not in the way, maybe it can be moved, maybe it can’t be.” Smith said. “I respect and understand their concerns.”

Smith said the town is looking into federal and state grants that may help offset local costs. In a letter sent to property owners affected by the sidewalk, Smith said that the surveying had to happen before the town could get state permits.