By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Stanstead’s long-standing erosion issue along the Tomifobia River, which led to the temporary closure of the beloved Ye Olde Blacksmith art gallery last year, is finally being addressed. After months of delays and coordination, the necessary work to repair the riverbank is underway, offering relief to business owners like Gabriel Safdie, who had been directly impacted by the erosion.
A problem years in the making
The erosion issue has been a persistent concern in Stanstead, as noted by Mayor Jody Stone. In a recent interview, he explained that the problem has been known for about two years. “It’s work that’s been in the pipeline for a long time,” Stone remarked. “Finally, everything is lined up with the contractor, and the work has begun.”
The erosion along the riverbank not only affected Safdie’s art gallery but also exposed the town’s sewage infrastructure. “When the river took away the dirt, it uncovered the sewer as well,” Stone said. This created an urgent need for repairs to secure the sewer line and prevent further damage. The town, responsible for maintaining the sewer, has committed to covering the $150,000 cost of repairs. Stone confirmed that the work is expected to be completed by mid-October.
Art gallery closure and concerns
Gabriel Safdie, the owner of Ye Olde Blacksmith gallery, which sits close to the Tomifobia River, experienced the effects of the erosion firsthand. In an Oct. 2 interview, Safdie shared his frustration over the delays but expressed relief that the repairs are now moving forward. “Finally, they’re going to be able to fix it. There were delays, but they’re doing a decent job now,” he said. Safdie explained that last year’s gallery closure was a precautionary measure. “We weren’t in immediate danger of collapse, but it was a concern for the safety of our visitors.”
The erosion had washed away a lane next to the gallery, which was the only vehicle access to a nearby house. The precarious situation, with parts of the shore sliding into the river, led to a decision to close the gallery. “The gallery building is flush with the river,” Safdie noted. The town’s inspection last year confirmed the gravity of the situation, but the process of finding the right contractors and securing funding slowed the repair work.
This year, however, Safdie has been reassured by the progress made. “There’s no danger now. We’ve been given assurances by the experts that everything will be safe once the repairs are finished,” he said, sounding optimistic. Safdie also acknowledged the collaboration with the town, stating that despite the delays, “It’s finally under control now, and once this is done, it’ll be a good thing for the whole area.”
