By Lucas Willard
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-999708.mp3
Pittsfield, MA – The Route 183 improvement project in Lenox received the major injection of funds to upgrade the aging Brunnell Pump Station, and will also provide new piping to handle overflow problems, and expand the town's sewer system.
The Brunnell Pump Station, some of which dates back to the 1800's, has been facing overflow problems for years. Public Works Superintendent Jeffrey Vincent says this funding will avoid costly sewer rerouting. The system has overflowed 7 times in the past fifteen years.
Rep. William "Smitty" Pignatelli, who secured the MassWorks grant, has been familiar with the problem since he served as a town selectman years ago. Pignatelli stated that the project will aid economic development.
Canyon Ranch will now be able to expand, thanks to the planned upgrade to sewer capacity. Canyon Ranch is considering building condominiums. Tanglewood had previously used a costly "tight tank" waste disposal method, where sewage is collected and contained before disposal. They will now also be able to use the sewer system.
Lenox Town Manager Gregory Federspiel says that Canyon Ranch and Tanglewood are the two main economic drivers of the town, and the improvements they will be able to provide will affect other nearby businesses.
Representative Pignatelli said that the MassWorks grant to help with the Route 183 improvement project was not immediately approved by the State.
The project could bring 50 construction jobs, and could lead to 150 new jobs in the tourism sector, if Canyon Ranch expands.
Jeffrey Vincent said the project will begin taking bids immediately, with a plan to start construction after the threat of snow passes in April or May. He hopes to have the entire project completed in June.