Andover Highway Department Garage Project Kicks Off

Attending the groundbreaking for the new Highway Department garage were (l. to r.): Selectman Dana Swenson, Jim Hanson, Donna Duclos, Selectman Roland Carter, Selectman Delaney, Gary Ladd (V.P., Construx, Inc.), Brian Shedd (Project Manager, Construx, Inc.), Les Fenton (Project Clerk of the Works), Frank Bryson, Mike Campbell, Robert Pavnik (R&B Services), Kimberley Edelmann, and Vinnie Tuzzo. Photo: Doug Phelps

September 27 was a momentous occasion for the Town of Andover as local officials, community members, and construction teams gathered on a sunny afternoon to mark the official groundbreaking for the new Highway Department Garage. This groundbreaking ceremony symbolizes the start of a project that promises to enhance our town’s infrastructure and serve our community for years to come.

The ceremony took place at the construction site, where heavy machinery and excavators stood ready to commence work. The event began with a warm welcome from Select Board member Dana Swenson, who expressed enthusiasm for this vital infrastructure project.

“This groundbreaking marks a significant milestone for our town,” Swenson stated. “The Highway Department Garage project represents our commitment to modernizing and improving our town’s facilities to better serve our residents and meet the needs of our community.”

The new Garage is set to bring a range of benefits to our town:

1. Enhanced Service: The facility will provide our Highway Department team with the tools and space they need to maintain and improve our town’s equipment efficiently.

2. Sustainability: The project incorporates sustainable design elements, including energy-efficient lighting and eco-friendly materials, aligning with our town’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

3. Future-Ready: This facility is designed to meet the evolving needs of our town, ensuring that we can provide essential services effectively in the years to come.

Following Swenson’s remarks, key stakeholders, including Select Board members and project leaders, took part in the ceremonial groundbreaking. Armed with shovels, they symbolically turned the first soil, signifying the start of construction.

Local resident Jim Hanson attended the ceremony and shared his thoughts. “I’m excited about the Highway Department Garage project,” Hanson said. “It shows that our town is committed to progress and ensuring we have the structure needed to support the community.”

The project’s construction is expected to be fully completed by September 2024, following a break this January for winter conditions.