When the appeal to the superior court is based on objections to the necessity of taking the land, or on dissatisfaction with the laying out, alteration, or resurvey by the selectboard members, the opening of the highway shall be stayed until the court renders its decision. The court may fix the time when it shall be opened, as provided in this chapter, and for paying damages awarded when the appeal includes or relates solely to the question of damages. (Added 1985, No. 269 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; amended 1997, No. 161 (Adj. Sess.), § 15, eff. Jan. 1, 1998.)