Multiple streets in Watertown will be impacted by exploratory boring beginning April 22.
“Disturbances to residents are anticipated to be minor, but residents may notice elevated short-term noise levels and equipment working,” according to the DPW announcement.
Two-inch bores will be taken to test soil. Each bore takes between 1-3 hours to complete. The holes will be backfilled, and the surface will be restored, according to the DPW.
Anyone with questions or concerns can call Weston & Sampson at 978-532-1900 ext. 2435, or the Department of Public Works at 617-972-6420 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
See more details about the project by going here: https://www.watertown-ma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/27024/DPW-Exploratory-Borings-Pine-Essex-Nash-Oak-Streets
Can anyone explain why the borings are being taken? What’s the purpose? Just curious.
Elodia Thomas – thanks for asking the obvious question — the “why” should have been included in the article. At the moment, a few guesses would be surveying watertable activity, or possibly toxicity levels from nearby (or historical) uses of the land or street-creation or -maintenance materials; or evidence of gasline leaks; or pesticide use (e.g., in the 50s, many neighborhoods were sprayed widely with DDT, which tends to stay in soil for a long time). Another guess might be to assess the solidity of the ground under the street toward dealing with pothole creation or prevention. Or perhaps someone buried all their grandmother’s jewelry and can’t remember exactly where. In other words, the absence of information, there will be speculation.
I just realized this is the area downhill from the independent gas station Main St. I believe they are seeing if an underground gas tank leaked.
Oak St is the complete opposite end of town.
Good point. Not sure why Oak Street is being looked at.
I was wrong about the purpose for the borings. The DPW is looking at areas where potential water main projects could occur, DPW Supt. Gerry Mee said. They are seeing what kind of soil and rock is underground.