Groton Expected To Deny Request To Extend Mystic Streetscape Contract

The contractor handling the Mystic Streetscape project wants an extension until Aug. 12 to finish work, but Groton officials are expected to deny that request today.

The project was supposed to be done by June 30, but Pettini Contracting requested an extension of an additional 34 days; until July 12 to finish large-scale work like paving and until Aug. 12 to finish smaller-scale work like installing benches, Planning and Development Director Mike Murphy said.

The town is expected to answer the request today.

“I don’t expect to recommend any extension,” he said.

After June 30, the contract penalty for failing to finish the work is $500 per day.

, saying it was dragging on and crushing business. Business owners begged the council to halt the work immediately.

At least two said they’re in danger of folding; four businesses recently moved or closed for good, shop owners said.

The project has resulted in torn sidewalks, snarled traffic and businesses sometimes denied access to their front walks. In one case, construction trapped customers in a shop for three hours.

Shop owners said they want the project halted so they can make money over the summer and endure. Business owners are scheduled to meet at 9 a.m. today in the Mystic Arts Centre.

Murphy said he understands what business owners want, but he said if the town puts the project on hold, there could be financial consequences such as rising labor costs.

“If you grant an extension to let them do that substantive work in October, then you’re subject to dealing with those labor costs over that period, because you’re authorizing the delay,” he said.

The streetscape project, __, but has suffered delays that also coincided with bridge repair and a recession.