Our thanks go out to reporter Bella Levavi and the editors of the Recorder for your wonderfully thorough coverage of important public improvements scheduled for western Franklin County in the upcoming year (“Top News Stories of 2023: Part 1,” Recorder, Dec 28). Shelburne and Hawley are moving full speed ahead with climate friendly projects like LED streetlights and several new solar energy projects. Last summer we spent a delightful weekend in Shelburne and Shelburne Falls with our out-of-state friends, and enjoyed multiple crossings of the famous Bridge of Flowers footbridge, so it is welcome news to hear that the damage from Tropical Storm Irene and other repairs are being addressed. We had an easy time recharging our electric vehicle right in Shelburne Falls. It is inspiring to read how the leaders of Franklin County are meeting the future with common sense maintenance for a treasured part of the commonwealth.

Bill Beckett

Watertown