Letters to the Editor March 21

Bedford Highway Department is responsive, thoughtful

To the Editor:

A note to thank and shine a spotlight on Bedford’s Highway Department. Two weeks ago, we inquired about our road’s drainage system. The department’s response was immediate, skilled, thoughtful, and thorough. 

Constructed in the mid-1970s, our road’s system directs water downhill, along our property, past our neighbors, and beyond. It includes a large pipe under the road (bracketed by beautiful stonework), ditches, storm drains and a catch basin. The pipe had begun to close, as plant matter accumulated on either end. The department inspected, then spent the better part of three days clearing the pipe, dredging the ditches, and emptying the drains and basin. The crew did much of the work by hand, the rest using specialized machinery. Coming and going, they spotted a paving issue around the corner — they’re addressing that now. 

Drainage systems prevent roads, homes and yards from flooding. We’re grateful for their maintenance — and for the other ways in which the Highway Department keeps Bedford running smoothly. Their work is often uncomfortable (cold, wet and dirty), inconvenient (plowing and de-icing in the wee hours), and dangerous (from ticks to power tools to teetering trees and downed power lines). Their efforts are both highly visible and frequently overlooked. 

Their work in our neighborhood last week was first rate, and everyone we interacted with — from the office to the bosses to the crew — was friendly, professional, and 100 percent effective. 

Bedford is fortunate to have an exceptional Highway Department staffed by exceptional people. Many, many thanks! 

Mary Duncan and Nick Gutfreund

Bedford