Bridgewater

Bridgewater is getting close to the end of the road to recovery, says Nancy Robinson, town clerk. Aside from one lingering project, which involves a 150-foot long, eight-foot in diameter culvert replacement, everything is pretty much fixed to pre-Irene condition.

The town sustained close to $2 million in damages. So far, on paper, FEMA reimbursements have covered about $1.2 million. Thirty-seven roads needed some kind of attention, 14 bridges were damaged, and the recreation fields and playground needed debris removed and equipment replaced.

Five of the town’s properties were destroyed or damaged to the point of being uninhabitable. Those five are going through the buyout program; one family has permanently relocated. Close to a dozen homes also were damaged, and Habitat for Humanity has been active in rebuilding and remodeling at least two homes in the community.

Shortly before Irene hit, the town had celebrated its 250th year and, as it was a big success last year, it will be celebrating again this year.