The Public Works Department has received a needed improvement that officials say has both environmental and safety benefits. A new fuel storage facility on Drive Way will allow the Town to store up to 10,000 gallons of fuel while complying with Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) regulations.

According to Public Works Director Dave Castro, the new above-ground system replaced the previous below-ground facility that had reached its certification limit and required replacement.

“The tanks that were inground were expired. There is only a certain life expectancy for underground tanks which had expired, so we had to dig them up and replace them,” said Castro.

Castro said the Town decided to install the new system above ground for convenience and safety reasons.

“The tanks last much longer when above [ground]. And when above ground, it is much easier to find a leak if one occurs. [It's] much easier if any repairs or inspection needs to be done,” said Castro.

Many fuel and propane tank systems are stored underground for aesthetic reasons and also for space considerations on respective sites.

However, Castro said, the tradeoff is that underground tanks can degrade more quickly than above-ground tanks. Above-ground tanks are also easier to maintain and repair.

First Selectman Matt Hoey noted that above-ground tanks are also more environmentally friendly and comply with DEEP regulations.

“It’s more environmentally safe and sound and puts us in compliance with DEEP regulation. Underground tanks for storage are obviously rife for potential environmental issues, and this addresses that,” Hoey said. “We’re thrilled to have the latest technology.”

All town vehicles except for the fire department will utilize the new fuel facility, according to Castro. The police department has a fueling station in conjunction with the fire department, but Castro said they often use the Public Works facilities to fuel up as a matter of convenience when on duty.

The new system will feature both gasoline, which will be stored in a new 4,000-gallon tank, and diesel which will be stored in a 6,000-gallon tank, all above ground.