It has been about two years since new traffic lights were installed at Second and Third avenues in Marlinton. During that project, we discovered the deterioration of the mounting bases for the Main Street lampposts. Potential causes probably are (a combination of) the original grade of concrete, highway treatments in winter, and/or time itself – approximately 30 years. No doubt each has contributed to the present condition. At this point, determining the cause is a secondary issue.
Since the discovery of the condition of street mounting bases, two poles have been run into and knocked down by motor vehicles. Now, a third lamppost, we believe, must have blown down, during the Sunday evening windstorm.
Another potential cause is under investigation. Ironically, this was the first lamp-base to be discovered with crumbling concrete.
Now, we must decide what to do? There are three obvious options:
1. Knowing Main Street requires adequate lighting, and knowing the remainder of the lamp bases must be in a similar condition, safety is as big an issue as the lighting. The Town will immediately pursue Critical Needs financing through Region 4 to the Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council (IJDC)
2. Purchase three replacement lampposts, and try to match styles as closely as possible, or
3. Tape the electrical ends and cover the places where the lamps used to stand.
Number three does not sound like a logical option to me, but it was the first response that can be accomplished. The final outcome may depend on the IJDC response to the #1 option.
Sam