Infrastructure Modernization
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Current State of the City
Haverhill’s infrastructure is aging and, in some cases, operating beyond capacity. Water lines are decades old, roads and sidewalks are in disrepair, and our wastewater system is routinely overloaded during storms — resulting in pollution being discharged into the Merrimack River.
Despite these challenges, large-scale developments continue to be approved, increasing demand on systems that are already stretched thin.
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Vision for the Future
A city where roads, waterworks, and sewage systems are modern, reliable, and able to support both current needs and carefully planned growth — without passing the cost of upgrades onto current residents.
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Plan of Action
Comprehensive Infrastructure Audit
- Identify the oldest and most vulnerable components of the city’s water, sewer, and road systems.
- Rank repair and replacement needs by urgency and public safety risk.
Aggressive Grant-Funding Strategy
- Target programs like the MassWorks Infrastructure Program, EPA Clean Water State Revolving Fund, FEMA BRIC, and USDA Rural Development Water & Waste Disposal Grants.
- Work with state and federal legislators to maximize funding allocations.
Green Infrastructure Integration
- Install rain gardens, permeable pavement, and bioswales to reduce stormwater load and prevent flooding.
- Partner with environmental nonprofits for project funding and design.
Developer Impact Fees
- Require developers to pay for infrastructure expansions needed for their projects before receiving final approvals.
Public Progress Tracker
- Launch an online dashboard showing project timelines, budgets, and progress in real time.