At the most recent Hudson Board of Selectmen meeting, officials were informed of likely delays in the Target Distribution Center project – delays that could directly impact the Fire Department’s plans to purchase a new rescue boat.
The Board discussed a proposal to acquire a boat using funds from the Target Public Safety Fund. Fire Chief Scott Tice explained the department’s intent to purchase a 16 – 18-foot boat with a 60 – 90 horsepower motor, similar to models previously considered during budget discussions.
“This size boat can only be launched and recovered from a trailer,” Tice wrote. “We were looking at this size with the understanding that a boat ramp was to be built on the Merrimack River in Hudson.”
However, Tice noted that the ramp is now expected to be at least four years away.
“Not having a boat launch we can reach quickly can cause delays in reaching those in distress,” he said. As a result, the department is exploring the option of a smaller, 14-foot boat with a 30-horsepower motor. This type of boat could be carried from the trailer to the water, allowing for faster access without a ramp. However, Tice cautioned that a smaller boat would struggle to tow disabled vessels, which the department occasionally assists with.
If the larger boat is purchased, Tice said it would need to be launched from Nashua or Tyngsboro.
He also explained that the funds for the boat launch are tied to the certificate of occupancy for the Target project.
“At this point, the certificate of occupancy on the main building is not expected until 2029,” Tice said.
Town Engineer Elvis Dhima confirmed that the boat launch is planned for Merrill Park, citing its favorable topography and available space for parking and trailers.
“That’s the ultimate destination,” Dhima said. “There have been plans for Merrill Park even before the Chief and I arrived.”
Board Chair Dillon Dumont asked whether discussions had taken place with the developer about starting the boat launch ahead of schedule.
Dhima responded that offsite improvements are nearly complete, though some work may continue into next year. He noted that the building shell is finished, but the interior layout remains undecided.
“They cannot pour the concrete until they know exactly what it’s going to look like,” Dhima said. “There’s going to be a lot of robotics.”
While the timeline could change, Dhima emphasized that current projections are based on the information provided by the developer.
“The way the agreement is written, the main building must be completed and approved before the funds are released,” Dhima said. “But I’ll speak with the developer to see if they’d consider releasing part of the funds early so we can begin the process.”
No decision was made about the boat purchase during the meeting.
