Rockland Advances Hingham Street Overhaul and Federal Funding Strategies
Board Mourns Town Clerk
ROCKLAND - January 20, 2026 - The Rockland Select Board moved forward with plans for a multi-million dollar infrastructure project on Hingham Street and a strategic federal “Slum and Blight” designation for Union Street to unlock essential revitalization grants. The meeting, marked by significant policy updates, opened with a lengthy and emotional tribute to the late Town Clerk Liza Landy, who was remembered as a “mench” and a pillar of integrity for the community.
The Full Story
The primary focus of the evening’s business was the Hingham Street Corridor Improvement Project, a complex infrastructure initiative that has been in development since 2021. Assistant Town Administrator Courtney Bjorgaard informed the Board that the project is currently at the 75% design phase. While the original scope of the project was estimated at approximately $25 million, Bjorgaard noted that the town has “paired back the design” to a more realistic figure to better secure state construction funding.
Key upgrades for the Hingham Street corridor—stretching from Route 3 to the Reservoir Park Drive intersection—will include road widening, resurfacing, and the addition of new sidewalks on the south side to connect the hotel and Home Depot areas. A major realignment is planned for the intersection of Hingham Street and Reservoir Park Drive to accommodate anticipated growth from the nearby Union Point development. Bjorgaard indicated that construction could begin as early as next year, with a public outreach meeting scheduled for March.
In a parallel effort to secure funding, the Board heard a preview of a federal “Slum and Blight” designation for the Union Street corridor. Bjorgaard clarified that while the term can be “misunderstood,” it is a specific federal tool required to unlock Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for sidewalk and facade upgrades. To qualify, at least 25% of properties in the identified area—stretching from North Avenue to just past East/West Water Street—must meet the threshold for “fair or poor” condition. A formal vote on this designation is expected in February.
The meeting was also heavily defined by the loss of Town Clerk Liza Landy, who passed away unexpectedly on January 7th. Town Administrator Doug Lapp and members of the Board shared personal reflections on Landy’s journey from being a Council on Aging van driver to becoming a highly respected municipal leader. Vice-Chair Lori Childs described Landy’s dedication to service as “punk as hell,” referencing her quiet determination and authenticity.
“Liza led the clerk’s office with integrity, dignity, and respect for every resident she served. She was the embodiment of what it means to be a public servant.” — Selectman Steven O’Donnell [06:44]
Additionally, the Board set a timeline for Town Administrator Doug Lapp’s annual performance review, with a consolidated public document expected by the first meeting in March. In his report, Lapp also highlighted a new grant application to digitize the “quarter-million dollar” volume of paper files at Town Hall and confirmed that the governor’s budget is expected on January 28th.
Why It Matters
The infrastructure updates on Hingham Street and the federal designation for Union Street represent a dual-track strategy to modernize Rockland’s commercial hubs. For residents, the Hingham Street project promises to alleviate traffic congestion and improve walkability near major retail centers, while the Union Street designation serves as a prerequisite for federal money that maintains the downtown area without relying solely on local property taxes.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: Approve the minutes from January 6, 2026.
Vote: 5-0 ([14:07])
Motion: Approve the CDBG Private Cap Waiver request for a housing rehab project.
Vote: 5-0 ([15:12])
Motion: Enter into Executive Session for collective bargaining strategy (Police, Fire, Highway, Parks).
Vote: 5-0 Roll Call ([42:37])
Public Comment
There was no formal public comment session during this meeting; however, Board member John Ellard reminded residents that nomination papers for the upcoming town election are available until February 18th, noting that several positions currently have no candidates ([35:16]).
What’s Next
January 27, 2026 (6:00 PM): Abington-Rockland Joint Waterworks meeting at Rockland High School regarding water infrastructure for Union Point.
February 2026: Formal presentation and vote on the Union Street “Slum and Blight” inventory.
March 2026: Public outreach meeting for the Hingham Street Corridor Improvement design.
March 2026: Public presentation of the Town Administrator’s performance evaluation.
Source Video: WRPS Rockland