Relative to roadways and road markings
If enacted, H3349 would amend Chapter 84 of the General Laws of Massachusetts by introducing a new section that details the responsibilities of public utilities and private contractors regarding roadway repairs. The bill aims to enhance community safety and accessibility by ensuring that repairs are made promptly after disturbances. Additionally, by clearly defining the timeframes for repairs, the bill seeks to hold entities accountable for their maintenance obligations, thereby encouraging responsible behavior from contractors and utilities operating in public spaces.
House Bill H3349, presented by Representatives Steven S. Howitt and Joseph D. McKenna, focuses on improving the maintenance of roadways and the prompt restoration of road markings following disturbances caused by utility work or contractor activities. The bill mandates that public utilities and private contractors must patch and seal impacted roadways within 30 days of breaking ground and restore any disturbed road markings, such as crosswalks and bike lanes, within 7 days. These timeframes are stipulated to ensure that road conditions remain safe and navigable for the public.
Notably, H3349 includes provisions for penalties for noncompliance, whereby entities failing to meet the specified deadlines would incur a fine of $100 for the initial month of delay, with further penalties of at least $100 for each week thereafter. This stipulation may foster some contention among stakeholders, particularly utilities and contractors who might argue that the timelines are too stringent or impractical under certain weather conditions. As such, debate may emerge around the proportionality of penalties and the impact of such regulations on the operational workflows of these entities.