New safety features are coming to the parking lot at Harpswell’s A. Dennis Moore Recycling Center & Transfer Station as part of an ongoing renovation and expansion project.
Manager Charles “Chuck” Perow Jr. told the Harpswell Select Board at its meeting on Thursday, April 24, that new speed humps and concrete barriers are being installed following a series of dangerous incidents in 2024.
“Last year, we had three incidents where people drove into the building,” Perow said. “We had two incidents where they drove in and crushed two Garbage to Garden totes full of rotten food … one (vehicle) hitting the gate, the other hitting the bollard basically where (employee) Donnette (Goodenow) is usually standing.”
Perow said the Recycling Center will use concrete barriers to fortify specific areas, including where people drop off bottles and cans, and in front of the Garbage to Garden organic waste drop-off.
“People have their back turned to the parking lot — that’s a very vulnerable spot,” Perow told the board. “We want people to feel safe over there.”
A row of 3-foot concrete barriers will be installed in front of the containers where residents drop off garbage, as well. Previously, those barriers were made of plastic, and some motorists would drive right over them, he said.
Perow warned visitors not to try that maneuver in the future. “You’re going to be doing some serious damage, and it’s not going to be the town’s obligation to repair anything — it’s on you.”
Have a comment or news tip? Email J. Craig Anderson at craig@harpswellanchor.org.
