The Greenbelt City Council convened a special meeting on August 3 to discuss a critical roadway resurfacing project on Mandan Road, aimed at completing the work before the upcoming school year begins on August 25. City Manager Saint Maron, unable to attend due to illness, had previously highlighted the need for this project to ensure safe transportation for school buses and students.

During the meeting, Assistant City Manager Tim George and Acting Public Works Director Brian Kim presented plans to resurface two sections of Mandan Road, with an emphasis on areas heavily trafficked by school buses. The project is expected to take approximately two weeks, contingent on weather conditions, with the actual resurfacing work anticipated to last about a week.

Council members raised questions regarding the project’s scope and budget. The resurfacing contract includes a total allocation of $1 million for various roadworks, with approximately $50,000 earmarked for potential base repairs. The council discussed the importance of ensuring that the contract language addresses non-performance issues, as delays in project completion have been a concern in the past.

Residents also voiced their opinions during the meeting. One resident inquired about the condition of the intersection at Greenbelt Road, expressing concerns about potholes and rough surfaces that remain unaddressed. Another resident suggested updating the terminology used in the contract regarding accessibility features, advocating for more inclusive language.

The council acknowledged these community concerns and committed to reviewing the suggestions, including the possibility of implementing deconstruction protocols to promote recycling and reuse of materials during the project. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of timely action to enhance road safety for the upcoming school year.