In a few minutes Monday evening, Woolwich voters at a special town meeting accepted up to $335,963 in federal funds through the American Rescue Plan Act.

As stated in the warrant, the use of ARPA monies could include buying emergency gear for first responders, installation of a ventilation system at the town office, broadband expansion, water lines-culverts, solar panels, and audio/visual equipment for televising selectboard meetings. The monies must be used on approved COVID-19 related items or services and don’t have to be spent until 2026. The town must make its first reporting on how it intends to spend its ARPA monies by April 20, 2022.

After Town Clerk Anthony Blasi called the meeting to order at 6 p.m., John Chapman was elected moderator. After reading the article, Chapman asked if there was any comment; there was none, and the article to accept the ARPA funds passed unanimously.  The selectboard and eight other residents were there.

During selectmen’s regular meeting, the board discussed the state’s planned replacement of the Station 46 bridge on Route 1. Chairman David King Sr. suggested inviting Maine Department of Transportation Commissioner Bruce Van Note to meet with the board. “I think it would be beneficial to share some of our concerns directly with him,” said King. “I’d like to get a definite answer on where we stand on the George Wright Road. If they intend to close off its south end, then we need to know whether we can put in a new connector road.” The connector road would be about a quarter-mile north of the current George Wright Road/Route 1 intersection.

Selectman Jason Shaw said, “The frustration for us as a community is simply not knowing. What we want are answers from them,” he commented. “We also need more information about the planned traffic signal at the intersection of Route 1 and Nequasset Road.” MDOT plans to install the temporary traffic light during construction of the new bridge which spans the railroad north of Taste of Maine restaurant. The project also includes raising Route 1 near the dike about five feet. Funding for the project has been approved and work is stated to begin next year.

Road Commissioner Jack Shaw weighed in, as well. “I think in the long run the town would be better off to have that connector road.”

Selectman Allison Hepler agreed to draft a letter on the board’s behalf to MDOT.

Woolwich will close the town office at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 24 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.