SAUGUS- CULVERT REPLACEMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION, WHEELABRATOR ACCESS DRIVE OVER CRESCENT MARSH/BEAR CREEK (MASSDOT OWNED)

The proposed project will replace an existing MassDOT-owned culvert conveying tidal flow and stormwater from the Crescent Marsh to the Bear Creek Estuary. The existing steel culvert is crushed under a capped landfill and requires replacement to restore tidal flow to Crescent Marsh and prevent contamination of the ACEC-designated Bear Creek estuary. The EPA and MassDEP have long expressed interest in the replacement of the culvert and are requesting MassDOT proceed with the design of the replacement to prevent regulatory action. However, any future substantial delays in progressing the project's development may result in substantial risk to MassDOT and may result in future enforcement actions from the regulatory agencies.