DRAINAGE 2019
Prior to 2018, due to lack of drainage structures, the Highway Department had to allocate manpower to pump flood water from numerous areas that were threatening homes. Under my direction, the Town of Huntington Highway Department has installed/increased 46 drainage improvements throughout the Town and as a result, we have considerably reduced all of the areas that required pumping.
Currently, I have identified through resident’s concerns and my own observations approximately 90 areas that still need additional drainage. To help expedite this process, I will temporarily be adding an additional piece of equipment, a wheeled excavator, to aid in the installation of leeching pools and catch basins. Additionally, we are utilizing a camera system that allows us to view the interior of our drainage pipes. We are utilizing State, City and Town contracts for a camera system that allows us to view drainage structures for pipe blockages. Additional contractors can install new drainage, and lastly, we are employing additional equipment to clean clogged pipes and silt-filled catch basins. All contractors’ vehicles are equipped with our GPS system.
To preserve our harbors and natural waterways, we are undertaking this project using a mapped area cleaning schedule starting on the North Shore.
Please know that we are working to alleviate any drainage issues within the Town resolved as soon and as safely as possible.
TREES 2019
In January of 2018, there were approximately 600-700 diseased and dead trees that needed to be removed for the safety of our residents. I instituted a plan on removing these dangerous trees, neighborhood by neighborhood. Our number one priority was removing the risk of falling trees.
As of April 15th, 2019, we are now instituting the same type of plan to address the stump removal issue. However, there is another element to the stump removal process. We are now required by law to notify 811 (CALL BEFORE YOU DIG) upon removing any tree stump.
This process of marking out where electric, water, gas or telephone/internet wires are prevents damage to these lines and creates a safe working environment for our Town employees.
We are going to expedite this process by assigning several crews on a daily basis .We have approximately 800 stumps to grind, and should have the grinding completed by the end of the fall, weather permitting. You will be notified when your area is scheduled for this work.
Please know that we will be removing all stumps as quickly and safely as possible.
Sincerely,
KEVIN S. ORELLI
Superintendent of Highways