Here's an interesting thought. I knew about the bridge proposal on Route 15 in Walden - the bridge that crosses Joe's Brook, by the town garage - but I hadn't given much thought to where/how traffic would be rerouted. David Covell sent us a message tonight - and I'm sure he's right - if Route 15 is closed, traffic will most surely increase on W. Shore Road and Brickett's Crossing Rd.

Even if traffic is officially routed to "numbered routes" as stated in this week's Hardwick Gazette, people who know the area are going to find the most direct route around the work site, and that's obviously down the west shore of Joe's Pond. If we think traffic is fast and heavy during a normal summer, imagine what it would be like if that happens.

Not only will there be extra traffic, there will also be extra wear and tear on the road which is not built for extreme traffic. The Town of Cabot will need to put extra money into the road to keep it passable and property owners will have to foot the bill. Surely there is a better alternative than closing Route 15.

There is to be a public meeting on Monday, January 24, 7 p.m., at Walden School. A representative from Vermont Agency of Transportation (AOT) will be at this meeting to give background, "explain deficiencies, proposals for construction alternatives, (i.e. phasing of construction, use of a temporary structure, temporary closing of Route 15 to include a temporary reroute of traffic on alternative state numbered routes), and time lines for implementation."

There will be an open discussion session following the presentation to answer questions and address concerns. If you wish to have additional information you should contact Northeastern Vermont Development Association at 748-5181 or the project manager, Carolyn Carlson at AOT, 828-0048.