New England 15 July 16, 2025 by Construction Equipment Guide

New $107M Connector Road Opens in Brewer, Linking I-395 to Highway 9

The long-awaited Interstate 395/Maine Highway 9 Connector finally opened to traffic June 27, 2025, after years of construction.

The 6-mi. stretch of road had been in the planning stages for more than two decades and under construction since 2017 north and east of the town of Brewer, across the Penobscot River from Bangor.

Officials of the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) and Orono-based Sargent Corp., the project’s prime contractor, were on hand for a ribbon-cutting ceremony prior to the road’s debut, reported the Bangor Daily News.

The $107 million project was developed to complete a “missing link” between I-395 and Maine Highway 9, the latter of which runs from the United States-Canada border at the town of Calais — in the eastern part of the state — to the border with New Hampshire in the west.

Billion-Dollar Amtrak River Rail Bridge Replacement Project Under Way in Conn.

O&G Industries of Torrington, Conn., and Tutor Perini/Los Angeles are the Joint Venture

O&G Industries of Torrington, Conn., and Tutor Perini of Los Angeles are joint venture partners on the $1.37 billion Connecticut River bridge replacement project. Construction began on Aug. 5, 2024, with completion scheduled for July 16, 2030.

Amtrak is the project sponsor, with primary funding provided by an $826.6 million Federal Railroad Administration grant. The remaining costs are being covered by Amtrak and the State of Connecticut.

According to ogind.com, the project “will involve building a two-track, electrified and resilient movable bridge structure equipped with new track, signal, catenary, power, communication, controls and security features.”

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Two Lynn, Mass., Transportation Projects at Different Stages

Nearly three years after winning a $20 million federal grant, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) hosted its first public forum on June 11, 2025, for a proposed transit-focused redesign of the Lynnway, a major highway that slices across the city of Lynn’s waterfront district.

A six- to seven-lane highway owned by the state’s Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Lynnway extends from the Rumney Marshes at the city’s southern boundary to Nahant Beach and is currently a loud, polluted barrier that divides downtown Lynn from its waterfront, according to StreetsblogMASS.

Although the Lynnway is lined with car dealerships, junkyards and strip malls, Lynn municipal officials have ambitious plans to transform the area into a walkable mixeduse district that can capitalize on its proximity to the city’s waterfront.

In its 2021 federal grant application, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the MBTA proposed to redesign the Lynnway by sacrificing some of its existing lanes to make room for “center-running bus lanes with

transit signal priority, a shared use path along the eastern edge of the Lynnway, improved bus stops and improved pedestrian crossings.”

But there was no mention of dedicated transit lanes or bike paths in any of the materials on view at the June 11 open house.

“We’re focusing today on existing conditions outreach, making sure we’re starting from square one to get feedback on what might go into the concept design,” Phillip Cherry, an MBTA senior project manager, told StreetsblogMASS. “This is the first time we’ve had any kind of public forum for this project.”

Northern Strand to Get Path

Through Downtown Lynn

Across town, construction is already under way at another project site on the Northern Strand Trail extension project, where crews are building a new curb-separated, on-street trail through Lynn that will include upgraded bus stops, traffic calming measures and crosswalk improvements.

According to StreetsblogMASS, the trail currently ends next to a hectic traffic circle

on Western Avenue, about a mile west of the city’s downtown.

The construction will eventually extend the Northern Strand on city streets to connect the trail to the city’s waterfront at Nahant Beach.

Work began on the project nearly a year ago, and most of the trail’s length is still an active construction site. However, many of the new curbs that will divide the trail from adjacent motor vehicle traffic have already been installed to give a sense of what the path will eventually look like.

At several locations, workers are also installing new platforms for the 426, 429 and 455 MBTA bus routes that also use the trail across the city.

Similar to bus stops that recently went in on Washington Street in East Somerville, Mass., these platforms will let MBTA buses stop without pulling in and out of traffic, while also providing a wide buffer between motorized traffic and the adjacent bike path.

In addition to the trail itself, the project also includes:

• building numerous traffic-calming and beautification improvements for the rest of

Market

Street; and

• the construction of two big median islands to give pedestrians easier crossings at the wide intersection of Market, State and Oxford streets.

In addition, new shade trees to soon be planted as well.

At the southern end of Market Street, the on-street trail will traverse a wooded park before joining the Lynnway next to Lynn Heritage State Park, StreetsblogMASS reported.

The easternmost leg of the project runs along the Lynnway from Market Street to the traffic rotary at the entrance to Nahant Beach. Along this segment, the construction has carved up one of the Lynnway’s six lanes to make room for the new trail on the waterfront edge of the roadway. Crews also removed thousands of sq. ft. of unnecessary asphalt to create new stormwater-absorption gardens between the highway and the trail.

Construction on this portion of the Northern Strand Trail is mostly complete, and several people on bikes were seen using the new path to ride to the beach on the evening of June 11. 

A rendering of the new sidewalk and bike path.

Solomon Foundation render

Chadwick-BaRoss Weighs in On Future of Equipment

Chadwick-BaRoss has been a familiar name in New England’s heavy equipment scene for close to a century.

With deep roots in the region and a clear understanding of what contractors face on the ground, the company has steadily built a reputation. In a conversation with Cole Leavitt, northern regional director, and Michael Anderson, southern regional director of Chadwick-BaRoss, we explored current equipment demands, evolving contractor preferences and what’s next for the industry.

Across the board, their insights reveal a clear shift: versatility, safety and service are driving contractor decisions — with compact machines, telematics and rental options rising in demand.

Contractors Want Machines That Do More With Less

“Customers value post-sale support, trusting the company not only for machines but for long-term reliability.”

Rental Market Growth, Flexible Ownership Models

One of the biggest shifts in the industry is the growing demand for versatile machinery that can handle multiple tasks without needing extra operators or machines. Attachments like tilt rotators are leading this change by enabling fast, seamless switching between jobs. Michael sums it up: “An operator can switch between jobs with one machine instead of needing two operators and two machines.” Cole points out that today’s contractors want machines that are fuel-efficient, cost-effective to run and easy to maintain. “Technologies like dig assist and load assist help streamline operations and improve productivity,” he said. To meet this growing demand, Chadwick-BaRoss introduced a dedicated technology manager. His role is to proactively monitor machine performance through Volvo’s CareTrack system and alert customers before issues escalate.

Automation, Grade Control Technologies Becoming Standard

Automation is now a top priority on job sites, revolutionizing construction site operations by enabling precise, efficient digging and grading. Michael said, “Many job sites are now automated using satellite and laser-based technology, you program the machine to dig exact dimensions, and it does it precisely,” highlighting how this technology removes much of the guesswork. Cole emphasizes the broader impact, noting the integration of smart technology “improves accuracy and reduces human error.” This precision not only boosts productivity but also helps avoid costly mistakes on the job site.

Modern Contractors Focus On Performance, Practicality

Another noticeable shift in the industry is the evolving mindset of new age contractors and business owners who are less influenced by traditional brand loyalty and more driven by practical efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Michael said, “Younger owners and operators are openminded to new brands and smarter machines, focusing on what delivers the best results rather than sticking to familiar names.”

Cole adds, “Customers value post-sale support, trusting the company not only for machines but for long-term reliability.”

It reflects a broader industry trend toward smarter, more deliberate decision-making on the job site, where results matter more than names on machines. This change in attitude is encouraging manufacturers and dealers to innovate and tailor their offerings to meet the practical demands of modern contractors, rather than relying on long-standing reputations alone.

Also, the industry is moving away from traditional, multipurpose machines like backhoes toward more specialized, compact equipment that delivers greater efficiency and precision. “Backhoe sales and market share has been declining; mini excavators and skid steers have taken over,” said Michael, highlighting how these smaller machines better meet today’s job site demands.

For instance, mini excavators and compact track loaders are gaining ground, reflecting their growing popularity and the shift toward machines designed for specific tasks rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

The equipment rental market continues to grow as contractors seek more flexibility in accessing and managing machinery. In fact, rentals now make up a significant portion of the industry. Michael said, “Larger companies increasingly choose full rental packages, while smaller ones tend to own some machines but still use rentals.” Instead of buying new equipment outright, many contractors now prefer to rent first and purchase later if it proves practical. Leasing has also become more popular, particularly for project-based needs — marking a significant shift from when ownership was the default, with a growing focus on equipment use. Innovations like Volvo’s hourly billing model also are gaining attention, allowing customers to commit to a usage duration and be billed by the hour. While still in the early stages, this approach is expected to see significant growth in the coming years.

Customer-Centric Approach, Regional Strengths Matter

Across the board, a strong customer-first mindset and broad regional presence stand out as key competitive advantages. Michael said, “We’re everywhere in New England, which many competitors can’t claim.”

Cole adds, “Flexibility and personalized service build lasting relationships,” a crucial asset in an industry marked by uncertainty. This combination of regional strength and nimbleness supports long-term customer loyalty and trust.

Electric Equipment Is Emerging, Not Yet Ready for Full Job Site Use

Sustainability and electric machinery are gaining momentum, especially in municipal projects, but challenges remain before electric equipment becomes mainstream. Michael said, “Electric equipment has potential, but the manufacturing isn’t quite there yet.”

According to a research and markets report, the global construction equipment market is projected to grow from $149.78 billion in 2024 to $194.78 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 3.8 percent. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) forecasts that construction equipment sales in North America will rise 3 percent in 2025, with compact equipment accounting for more than half of all units sold.

Chadwick-BaRoss sees this growth as a signal to keep evolving, driven by infrastructure investment, tighter labor markets and a growing demand for operational efficiency. Whether it’s through smart compact equipment, a flexible rental model, or a “get it done” attitude, their mission remains the same: helping contractors stay productive, competitive and unstoppable. 

Cole Leavitt

Chadwick-BaRoss

Chadwick-BaRoss logo

Liebherr

New Conn. River Bridge Construction Won’t Interrupt Service

The new bridge will be constructed approximately 50 ft. south of the existing structure, allowing uninterrupted service during construction. It will reconnect to the existing tracks 1,000 to 1,500 ft. from each end. Designed for a 100year lifespan, the new bridge will provide greater reliability and reduce travel delays by supporting more modern infrastructure.

Project highlights include:

• more than 25,000 cu. yds. of concrete;

• more than 13 million lbs. of structural steel, including a 207-ft. bascule span;

• more than 4 million lbs. of reinforcing steel;

• deep foundation drilled shafts ranging from 3 to 8 ft. in diameter;

• catenary and signal system upgrades; and

• demolition of the existing bridge upon project completion.

Located between Old Saybrook and Old Lyme, the

Connecticut River Bridge lies 3.4 mi. from the mouth of the river at Long Island Sound, along Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor. It is one of several movable rail bridges on the route.

According to Amtrak.com, “The existing Connecticut River Bridge is nearing the end of its useful life. Its decreasing operational reliability leads to cascading delays in both rail and maritime traffic due to failures in opening and closing properly.”

The replacement project is intended to improve long-term reliability, enhance serviceability and ensure continued rail and marine traffic.

Following the August groundbreaking, Peter Spath, senior project manager of O&G Industries, listed progress milestones including:

• mobilization;

• trestle design;

• invasive species treatment;

• clearing and grubbing;

• erosion and sedimentation control;

• design and construction of access roads;

• temporary aerial cable tower design;

• installation of a box culvert at 17 Shore Road;

• construction of the Eagle Landing fishing pier; and

• installation of monitoring equipment and additional boring investigations.

A statement on ogind.com described the new bridge as “a $1.3 billion modern and more resilient structure” featuring a trunnion bascule span, modernized rail infrastructure and increased rail and maritime performance. It will support train speeds up to 70 mph — a 55 percent increase over the current 45 mph limit. Vertical clearance in the closed position will rise from 18 to 24 ft., and in the open position, the navigable channel will expand from 71 to 90 ft.

Equipment used on the project by O&G includes:

• Cat 305 backhoe excavator

• Manitowoc 14000 (220-ton crawler crane)

• Ingersoll Rand SD105DX vibratory smooth drum roller

• JLG 860SJ aerial boom lift

• Stow 200ER vibrator

Tutor Perini added that its equipment inventory includes “top drive vertical drills, tieback and micropile drills, service and duty cycle cranes, crane-mounted drill rigs and limited access drills.”  CEG

(All photos courtesy of O&G Industries Tutor Perini.)

Manitou North America Adds Ferri Equipment as New GEHL Dealer

Manitou North America introduced Ferri Equipment as a new dealer to represent the GEHL equipment brand.

Ferri Equipment will take on the full-line of GEHL skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, articulated front-end loaders and telescopic handlers.

“We are proud to partner with Ferri Equipment,” said Shawn Elliot, managing director for Manitou North America’s eastern region. “Ferri Equipment has a strong reputation in the industry, and we are confident they will provide outstanding customer support providing solutions for sales, rentals, service and parts for our GEHL brand. We look forward to a successful

and long-lasting partnership.”

Ferri Equipment was founded in 2014 as a family equipment business, headquartered in Wareham, Mass., with a primary focus on delivering customer service. it serves the greater New England construction market by providing equipment rental solutions, new and used equipment sales, attachments and parts. Ferri services all equipment brands offered in its lineup.

“Taking on the GEHL line marks a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering top-tier products and solutions to our New England clients,” said Boone Ferri, owner of Ferri Equipment. “Through this partnership, we will now offer an expanded lineup

with GEHL’s industry-leading machinery, all known for their durability, innovation and performance. This means our clients can expect greater access to high-quality equipment backed by our expert local support and service.”

“This partnership is a good fit as we’re both aligned with a vision of empowering clients through cuttingedge technology, sustainability and unmatched reliability,” said Carley Bockmeyer, owner of Ferri Equipment. “Together, we’re laying the groundwork for a dynamic future of growth, innovation and long-term success.”

For more information, visit Ferriequipment.com and Gehl.com. 

Construction began on Aug. 5, 2024, with completion scheduled for July 16, 2030.

Manitou photo Ferri Equipment will take on the full-line of GEHL skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, articulated front-end loaders and telescopic handlers.

Tutor Perini said that its equipment inventory includes top drive vertical drills, tieback and micropile drills, service and duty cycle cranes, cranemounted drill rigs and limited access drills.

O&G Industries of Torrington, Conn., and Tutor Perini of Los Angeles are joint venture partners on the $1.37 billion Connecticut River bridge replacement project.

BRIDGE from page 1

I-395/Maine 9 Connector Reduces Traffic, Travel Times

from page 1

The two highways are major traffic routes for the greater Bangor/Brewer area, the economic and employment center for Maine’s north central region. The area also is a hub for the movement of goods because of its proximity to the interstate highway system and Canadian markets.

MaineDOT believes the I-395/Maine 9 Connector will reduce travel times to the Calais area and to all of eastern Maine.

It’s opening also eliminates the need for drivers to use U.S. Highway 1A, Maine 46 and Maine 9 to reach the interstate, according to the Bangor news source.

Designed by MaineDOT engineers and awarded to Sargent in January 2022, the new road is built for 55 mph travel and will be a controlled-access highway, meaning that it can only be reached via U.S. 1A on the south end and the intersection of Maine 9 to the north.

In addition, the project includes five bridges, two snowmobile crossings, seven stream crossings — three in Felts Brook, one in Felts Brook Tributary, two in Eaton Brook Tributary and one in Eaton Brook — as well three wet-

lands and two wildlife crossings.

Among the new bridges that were built for the connector were crossings over Levenseller Road, Lambert Road, Clewleyville Road, Eastern Avenue and at the junction with U.S. 1A.

At the wildlife crossing sites, fences were erected to direct animals toward safe passageways under the connector road to lessen the chances of vehicles hitting the local fauna.

Not only will the new road improve traffic flow and safety but quicken the movement of goods while shifting a major highway route out of downtown Bangor and Brewer to better serve the region’s economy.

Funding for the effort came from federal, state and grant sources, according to MaineDOT.

Multiple speakers at the event said the connector is likely to make the Brewer, Holden and Eddington communities through which it passes quieter due to the decrease in truck traffic.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Bruce Van Note, MaineDOT’s commissioner, explained that the road was a much-needed addition to the state because truckers were

forced to wind down more residential routes prior to its opening.

“This little six-mile section has been a missing link from a system perspective,” he said.

Van Note also noted that the connector highway was finished months before its expected Fall 2025 completion date. He added that he often worries about some projects coming in on time, but did not think twice about the I395/Maine 9 Connector being late.

“When we do hundreds of projects a year and sign hundreds of bid awards a year, there’s ones that you sign and go, ‘I wonder how that’s going to go.’ And then there’s this one here,” Van Note said.

The fact that Sargent Corp. is headquartered in Maine and employs many workers from the state also helped him feel more at ease about the project, he said.

Sargent President Eric Ritchie said that the job not only supported his Maine workers but will continue to help the state become better connected by shortening travel times and making far-flung places more accessible.

“A connector like this keeps Maine people in Maine,” he said. 

Chadwick-BaRoss Sweeps Two Awards at Marketing Summit

Chadwick-BaRoss was recognized with two awards at the recently held 2025 Volvo Marketing Summit in Chicago: best multichannel marketing campaign for its “Be Unstoppable with Volvo and Chadwick-BaRoss” initiative, and the best first award in recognition of its standout use of the Tint platform through an engaging social media photo uploader tool.

These honors celebrate ChadwickBaRoss’s marketing strategies and its approach to customer engagement through real-world content and cross-platform storytelling.

The awards were presented by Holly Neil, head of dealer marketing North America of Volvo Construction Equipment, who praised the campaign’s integrated marketing approach. She said, “Chadwick-BaRoss demonstrated an innovative way to promote and sell aftermarket services, a category where most dealers struggle. Additionally, this campaign epitomized the results that can come from aligning your sales and marketing teams, which was an important focus for this year’s summit.”

The campaign featured an integrated lead generation strategy designed to reengage customers in an acquired territory where Chadwick-BaRoss has no physical presence. Users were targeted via direct mail, digital ads, social media and email and encouraged to download an educational guide featuring aftermarket services available from Volvo and ChadwickBaRoss.

Chadwick-BaRoss photo

(L-R) are Dave Foster, head of marketing and communications of Volvo Construction Equipment; Katie Barrett, marketing services manager of ChadwickBaRoss; and Volvo Dealer advisory council member and Holly Neil, head of dealer marketing North America of Volvo Construction Equipment.

CONNECTOR

Chadwick-BaRoss photo Jordan Grochot, social media manager of Chadwick-BaRoss.

WHY CHOOSE ABLE TOOL and EQUIPMENT...

• Local Ownership with flexible approach

• Trained staff for repairs and maintenance

• Dedicated Parts personnel on site

• Focused on the Heavy Construction Industry

• Providing the BEST support equipment available

• Experienced outside sales staff

Volvo Awards Chadwick-BaRoss for New Marketing Approach

from page 12

“We know that an aftermarket parts, service or customer support purchase is a perceived lower risk than buying an expensive piece of equipment from a dealer you don’t know,” said Katie Barrett, marketing services manager of Chadwick-BaRoss and Volvo dealer advisory council member. “So the strategy here was to get our foot in the door with a lower value transaction, build trust and nurture the relationship further. With the collaboration of our aftermarket product support team, we were able to identify the offerings available on Volvo machines and educate known fleet owners on the unique tools they may not have known were available to them through their dealer.”

“Marketing leads in our industry take a long time to nurture and close, but we are confident that the groundwork we’ve laid with this campaign will support our efforts to expand into this territory in the future,” said Steve Bodtmann, corporate product support manager of Chadwick-BaRoss.

Chadwick-BaRoss also received the “best first” award, recognizing its use of the Tint platform through a social media photo uploader tool. The tool was used to collect on-the-job photos from both customers and employees, helping bring real-world stories

into the company’s digital marketing efforts. To drive participation, Chadwick-BaRoss placed QR codes directly on its machines

“User-generated content lets us show the real impact our customers make every day.”

Jordan Grochot

Chadwick-BaRoss

and distributed counter cards at all branch parts counters, making it easy for users to access and engage with the tool.

“User-generated content lets us show the real impact our customers make every day — and there’s nothing more powerful than that,” said Jordan Grochot, social media manager of Chadwick-BaRoss. “Tint helped us turn everyday job site moments into a community-driven story that reflects the pride and grit of the people behind the machines.”

Winners at the Volvo Marketing Summit 2025: Katie Barrett of Chadwick-BaRoss with fellow award recipients celebrating excellence in dealer marketing.

The Volvo Dealer marketing summit, held each year by Volvo Construction Equipment, brings together sales and marketing teams from across North America to share ideas, learn from each other, and celebrate standout work. This year’s theme, “Sync to Swim,” highlighted the power of

marketing and sales working together as one team with shared goals and a clear vision for growth. Chadwick-BaRoss is the exclusive Volvo construction equipment dealer throughout several regions in New England, with stores across Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Massachusetts. 

Chadwick-BaRoss photo

‘Glowing Support’...

Officials in Saco Consider Remodel of Town’s Historic Park

The town of Saco, Maine, could see a remodeling project of its historic Pepperell Park in the near future.

At a Saco City Council meeting on June 16, 2025, councilors heard a presentation from Ryan Sommer, the town’s parks and recreation director; and Todd Richardson, a landscape architect, on the potential renovation plans, the Portland Press Herald reported.

“We’ve been working on this project for about a year now with the initial design,” Sommer said. “We’re looking for a direction of where to go next.”

The remodel centers around the removal of John Fairfield Elementary School, located in the middle of the park. After the construction of two new elementary schools in Saco are completed, the older facility will no longer be needed.

Saco voters approved a funding plan for the new pair of schools last summer.

Pepperell Park is centrally located in the community, Richardson said, allowing for

access from both vehicles and pedestrians.

“There are a lot of people who can access this park just by walking,” he said. “It’s right in the heart of the city.”

Saco is located just more than 17 mi. south of Portland, Maine’s largest city.

Currently, Pepperell Park is both the site of the Fairfield School as well as an active community park. It includes a cemetery, community gardens and a dog park with sidewalks leading from surrounding neighborhoods.

Plans for the remodeled park include a pond with a fountain and a perimeter walkway, a picnic area, gathering spaces, an amphitheater and a playground with equipment for children of all ages and capabilities.

“This park would serve a lot of diverse age groups,” Richardson told the Portland news source. “There are a lot of different walking and gathering opportunities.”

In Pepperell Park’s open spaces, community events like farmers markets could also be held, he said, and winter activities like snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and even pond skating could be available.

The current plan also includes some of the renovation’s logistics. For example, Pepperell Park’s entrance would be located on Beach Street, with multiple pedestrian entrances scattered around the park’s perimeter. In addition, two parking lots would be available — one at the main entrance on Beach Street, and another near School Street.

Renovation proposals also suggest the creation of a new boulevard with plantings that connects School Street to Beach Street on the edge of the park.

“This would not be an average road,” said Richardson. “It could be closed for activities and community events.”

Pepperell Park is already one of the oldest

and most heavily used parks in Saco. Besides the old Fairfield School, the 12-acre park includes a large parking area, a stone water tower, a pavilion, a new playground (installed in 2023), an Edu-Course Fitness Trail, picnic tables, park benches and open green space.

In addition, it features a community garden and a gymnasium inside the school and a paved walkway within the park. A portion of Pepperell Park is handicap accessible via the path from Beach Street to the school.

City Councilors Report

ÂGlowing SupportÊ From Saco Residents

After hearing Richardson’s proposals for upgrading Pepperell Park, Saco city councilors expressed their interest in the project. Joe Gunn, a council member representing Ward 3, told the Press Herald that he is excited by the inclusion of an amphitheater and performance area.

“That’s something that has always been lacking in an outdoor space in Saco,” he said.

Ward 7 Councilor Nathan Johnston noted that he has already heard “glowing support” for the project from Saco residents, including those who live in the neighborhoods surrounding Pepperell Park.

Some town residents even voted for the new school bond specifically in hopes of renovating the park, according to Johnston.

“I’m supportive of this,” he said. “It’s a real unique opportunity.”

He doubted whether Saco would get a second opportunity to renovate Pepperell Park if it did not seize the chance to do so now and “reclaim that historic park to what the intent always was.”

His colleague, fellow city councilor Phil Hatch (Ward 5) also liked the plan, according to the Press Herald, but asked if Fairfield School could still be used in some way, noting pressures on housing and space at Saco City Hall.

However, according to Sommer, Pepperell Park can only be used as a park or a school due to deed restrictions.

“At the end of the day, that school has outrun its life,” he said.

In the coming weeks, Sommer hopes to put together a committee that will help the city reach the park’s final design and look at ways to fund the project.

“To be candid, there are a lot of things that still need to be worked out,” Richardson said. “We’re just getting started.”

An aerial photo of the current Pepperell Park. City of Saco photo