Our statutory road association voted at this year's meeting to develop a "10-year" road maintenance plan. The road is, at last, in pretty good shape overall with steady annual maintenance, however, we have had problems the last couple of winters with water running under a portion of the road during the spring thaw causing sink holes at a time when it is too early in the season to bring in heavy equipment to fix it. Also, we already know that a section of the road was built over stumps so it may never be ideal. Creating an entirely new road bed - even over the long-term - is likely to be cost-prohibitive. The property owners who have volunteered to get the ball rolling on our long-term plan would like to talk with someone who is qualified to advise them on how to begin. We have not ruled out paying an expert if it comes to that, but would rather not start with that premise. Any thoughts and experiences MARA members may have with launching a long-term road maintenance plan would be greatly appreciated!

There is a gentleman by the name of Philip Curtis who is the Maine Local Road Consultant, I believe with Maine DOT.

I used his expertise in 2013 to assist our road association with the installation of a tricky culvert situation. Phil was very helpful and his recommendation helped. There was no charge.

If Phil doesn't have what you are looking for, chances are he knows someone who does. His cell # is 431-6448 and his email is dpc@beeline-online.net

Give him a call, PDunn

Thank you both for your very helpful responses. I will check with our regional (Midcoast) SWCD to see if they have a sample plan they can share with us. Will also contact Philip Curtis once I receive something preliminary from our committee of property owners about their reasonable expectations for the implementation of such a long-term plan. Better to have something in hand before calling someone in so we don't waste their time. Much appreciated!