5 Changes in Danvers to Expect in 2012

Happy New Year, Danvers!

Wondering what's going to change this year around town? Here are a few things:

1. Mandatory Recycling: Starting on January 23, the town will officially begin mandatory recycling. Wondering what exactly that means? If you don't have your recyclables out with your garbage, it simply won't be picked up. .

2. Route 128 Construction: It began in the winter of 2009/2010, and Mass DOT has announced the project will be nearing completion this spring. The project's purpose was to construct new acceleration/deceleration lanes at the Route 35 (High Street) and Route 62 (Elliot Street) interchanges, as well as replacing the bridge carrying Route 128 over the unused MBTA rail road located south of the High Street interchange.

3. New Smart Grids: The $17 million project will be replacing all of the town's 13,000 electric and 8,000 water meters with "smart meters." The perks of the project, according to Town Manager Wayne Marquis, include more energy effiency, as well as being able to detect leaks and problems before they arise. 

4. DHS Renovations: It seems to have gone by quickly, but 's will be opening at the start of 2012. The new three-story science wing, school office and a library, among other new features, will be available for students and staff at a targeted date of this April.

5. Maple Street Tavern: It's been in the works for a few years now, but we're hoping the new downtown tavern will make its debut in 2012. .

What would you like to see changed or improved in Danvers during 2012? .