Author: The Record
Published October 2, 2024

Photo by Ross Murray
Crews work to shore up the riverbank along the Tomifobia River in Stanstead, addressing the long-standing erosion issue that forced the temporary closure of nearby businesses. The repairs, which include securing the exposed sewage line, are expected to be completed by mid-October.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Stanstead’s long-standing erosion issue along the Tomifobia River, which led to the temporary closure of the beloved Ye Olde Blacksmith art gallery last year, is finally being addressed. After months of delays and coordination, the necessary work to repair the riverbank is underway, offering relief to business owners like Gabriel Safdie, who had been directly impacted by the erosion.

A problem years in the making

The erosion issue has been a persistent concern in Stanstead, as noted by Mayor Jody Stone. In a recent interview, he explained that the problem has been known for about two years. “It’s work that’s been in the pipeline for a long time,” Stone remarked. “Finally, everything is lined up with the contractor, and the work has begun.”

The erosion along the riverbank not only affected Safdie’s art gallery but also exposed the town’s sewage infrastructure. “When the river took away the dirt, it uncovered the sewer as well,” Stone said. This created an urgent need for repairs to secure the sewer line and prevent further damage. The town, responsible for maintaining the sewer, has committed to covering the $150,000 cost of repairs. Stone confirmed that the work is expected to be completed by mid-October.

Art gallery closure and concerns

Gabriel Safdie, the owner of Ye Olde Blacksmith gallery, which sits close to the Tomifobia River, experienced the effects of the erosion firsthand. In an Oct. 2 interview, Safdie shared his frustration over the delays but expressed relief that the repairs are now moving forward. “Finally, they’re going to be able to fix it. There were delays, but they’re doing a decent job now,” he said. Safdie explained that last year’s gallery closure was a precautionary measure. “We weren’t in immediate danger of collapse, but it was a concern for the safety of our visitors.”

The erosion had washed away a lane next to the gallery, which was the only vehicle access to a nearby house. The precarious situation, with parts of the shore sliding into the river, led to a decision to close the gallery. “The gallery building is flush with the river,” Safdie noted. The town’s inspection last year confirmed the gravity of the situation, but the process of finding the right contractors and securing funding slowed the repair work.

This year, however, Safdie has been reassured by the progress made. “There’s no danger now. We’ve been given assurances by the experts that everything will be safe once the repairs are finished,” he said, sounding optimistic. Safdie also acknowledged the collaboration with the town, stating that despite the delays, “It’s finally under control now, and once this is done, it’ll be a good thing for the whole area.”

Community impact and future outlook

The erosion had also affected other businesses along the river, including Pizzeria Steve, which had managed to install a retaining wall to protect its building. Safdie, however, could not make similar repairs due to the land in question being in what Stone described as a “no man’s land.” This created a complex situation where private and public responsibilities overlapped, delaying the start of work.

Stone acknowledged these complications, explaining that the responsibility for dealing with river-related issues often falls on property owners. However, the town’s exposed sewer line added urgency to the situation, making it a municipal priority. “It’s private property, but with the sewer line exposed, we had to step in,” Stone said, clarifying the town’s role in the ongoing repairs.

For many in the town, the erosion issue may have gone unnoticed, as Stone pointed out. “It’s not something that affects most people. It’s really only the buildings right near the river that are impacted,” he explained. Nevertheless, for those affected, the resolution has been a long time coming.

As the town shores up the riverbank and secures its infrastructure, there’s a renewed sense of optimism among business owners. Safdie expressed relief that the situation is nearing a resolution, noting that he can now focus on the future of his gallery. “We’re looking forward to reopening and welcoming visitors again,” he said.

The repair work is set to conclude by mid-October, weather permitting, and both Stone and Safdie are hopeful that this will mark the end of the erosion saga. “It’s taken a while, but it’s finally happening,” Safdie said. Stone echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of securing the area to prevent further issues. “We’re working with the landowners, and everyone is eager to see this finished,” Stone said.

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