Huntington Council approves Woodhaven Drive slip remediation contract and bond refinancing

In the heart of Huntington, city officials gathered on December 9, 2024, for a pivotal meeting of the Public Works Committee, where two significant resolutions were discussed that promise to impact the community's infrastructure and financial management.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming a quorum as members prepared to tackle the agenda. The first item on the docket was a resolution authorizing the mayor to enter into a contract for slip remediation on Woodhaven Drive. This project, which aims to address critical road safety issues, follows a bidding process that concluded on December 3, 2024. The winning bid was awarded to Allen Stone Company from Vincent, Ohio, at a cost of $156,950. This decision was met with unanimous support from the committee, highlighting the urgency of the repairs needed to stabilize the road and protect the surrounding utilities.

As the discussion unfolded, committee members acknowledged the complexity of the repairs, noting the precarious condition of utility boxes leaning downhill, which underscored the necessity of prompt action. The funding for this project will be sourced from the public works and street construction budget, ensuring that the city can address these pressing infrastructure needs without delay.

The second resolution focused on the refinancing of the city’s combined sewer and stormwater system bonds. Brian Bracey, the executive director of the Huntington Water Quality Board, presented this supplemental resolution, which is the final step in a process aimed at merging two utilities. This refinancing is expected to streamline operations and potentially reduce costs for the city. The committee expressed its support, moving the resolution forward with a favorable recommendation.

With both items receiving enthusiastic backing, the meeting concluded efficiently, reflecting a collaborative spirit among the committee members. As Huntington continues to navigate its infrastructure challenges, these resolutions mark a proactive step towards enhancing the city’s resilience and financial health. The community can look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition, reinforcing the city’s commitment to maintaining safe and effective public works.