During a recent government meeting, officials discussed a significant $8 million infrastructure project that encompasses various improvements, including street repairs, sewer upgrades, and stormwater management. The project aims to address multiple issues, such as removing road humps, replacing water mains, and enhancing pedestrian safety with a 12-foot sidewalk.
The discussion highlighted the importance of value engineering to potentially reduce costs by reassessing the necessity of certain features, such as underground power lines and sidewalk dimensions. Officials emphasized the need for careful planning before proceeding with grant applications or design phases.
Additionally, the council is set to prioritize future projects through a new committee as part of an upcoming comprehensive plan update. This will involve developing a point system to evaluate project criteria, which will help in creating an initial list of prioritized projects. Among the projects mentioned, Kelly Lake Road is nearing completion, while the Churchill curve is slated for the 2025 biennium.
The meeting also touched on the need for a sidewalk relocation program, although it was noted that previous relocations had been handled privately. The council aims to address gaps in sidewalk coverage, particularly in areas frequented by schoolchildren, to enhance safety and accessibility.