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H 3770

An Act authorizing the Department of Highways to acquire a certain dam in the town of Norwood

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Rogers and 1 co-sponsor

Bill H 3770 allows Massachusetts to swiftly acquire and repair the Willet Pond Dam in Norwood, enhancing public safety by bypassing permits and appraisals.

Accompanied a study order, see H4710
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Bill Summary · H 3770

Summary of Bill H 3770: An Act Authorizing the Department of Highways to Acquire a Certain Dam in the Town of Norwood

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3770 aims to authorize the Massachusetts Department of Highways to acquire the Willet Pond Dam and a portion of Brook Street in Norwood through eminent domain. The primary goal is to facilitate immediate repairs and rehabilitation of the dam and surrounding infrastructure to ensure public safety.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  1. Eminent Domain Acquisition:

    • The Department of Highways is empowered to take by eminent domain the portion of Brook Street that traverses Willet Pond, including the earthen dam, spillway, and related structures.
    • This acquisition is intended to support emergency rehabilitation and repair efforts.

  2. Immediate Repairs:

    • The Department of Highways is mandated to undertake and fund all necessary repairs to Brook Street and the Willet Pond Dam.

  3. Permit Exemption:

    • No permits will be required from state or local agencies to carry out the repairs outlined in the bill, streamlining the process for urgent work.

  4. Appraisal Waiver:

    • The bill waives the requirement for an appraisal of damages prior to the taking of property under eminent domain. Any necessary appraisals will be conducted and funded by the Department of Highways.

  5. Naming of the Dam:

    • The dam will be officially named the "Honorable Gregory W. Sullivan Dam" in recognition of Gregory W. Sullivan's service to the Commonwealth.

  6. Effective Date:

    • The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Affected Parties

  • Local Government: The town of Norwood will be directly impacted as the acquisition and repairs will be conducted within its jurisdiction.
  • Public Safety: The bill is designed to enhance public safety by ensuring the structural integrity of the dam and the surrounding roadway.
  • Department of Highways: This agency will be responsible for the acquisition, funding, and execution of the repairs.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Referred to Committee: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing Scheduled: May 13, 2025
  • Accompanied by Study Order: November 10, 2025

Conclusion

Bill H 3770 represents a proactive approach to addressing infrastructure safety concerns in Norwood by enabling the Department of Highways to act swiftly in acquiring and repairing the Willet Pond Dam and associated roadways. The bill's provisions aim to eliminate bureaucratic delays, ensuring that necessary repairs can be made without the usual permit and appraisal processes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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