MATTAPOISETT — The concept design process for the Long Wharf redesign project can now begin after soil testing yielded “very positive” results, said Childs Engineering representative Andrew Nilson at a Tuesday, Sept. 12 meeting of the Mattaposiett Select Board.

According to Nilson, Long Wharf is currently labeled as “overall generally poor classification” meaning that the wharf has “deterioration in widespread areas.”

According to Nilson, a soil exploration report done earlier in the summer found that the soil underneath the wharf consisted of dense glacier material.

“The results that we got were surprising in that they were actually very positive,” said Nilson. “We found that glacier material is very dense material which is really advantageous to use as a base or foundation to put construction on top.”

According to Nilson, now that the soil exploration has been completed, the next step is to begin the conceptual engineering design stage.

Select Board members Tyler Macallister and Jordan Collyer emphasized the importance of using materials able to withstand weather conditions and the test of time. 

“At minimum we have to look at protecting the east side of the wharf, we have to rebuild it and restrengthen it so that it can last 100-plus years,” said Macallister.

The Select Board discussed options for fill materials including concrete, natural stone such as granite, or a hybrid of both. All fill options range in price. 

Nilson explained that manufactured stone has not been tested in a marine environment “as much as we would like.”

Select Board Chair Jodi Bauer encouraged the board to schedule open meetings for residents to have the opportunity to view and discuss multiple design options for the project. 

Dates for these meetings have yet to be determined as  concept designs for the project need to be completed.