Albany City Council approves $2.3M for road resurfacing and waterproofing projects

Dougherty County officials have taken significant steps to enhance local infrastructure during the December 16, 2024, Commission meeting, approving key funding for road resurfacing and maintenance projects.

The Commission unanimously approved a $72,000 contract with Merrick Building Construction Consultants for exterior waterproofing at the Albany Dougherty Government Center. This maintenance is crucial for preserving the integrity of the facility, ensuring it remains functional for public use.

In a broader initiative, the Commission also greenlit a comprehensive resurfacing plan for local roads, allocating $2,301,523.07 for the project. This funding will cover the resurfacing of 10.6 miles of roads, utilizing both Local Maintenance Improvement Grant (LMIG) funds and Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) revenues. The breakdown includes $459,427.54 from LMIG and $1,842,095 from SPLOST.

During discussions, officials emphasized the methodical approach to selecting roads for resurfacing. The engineering division employs a data-driven algorithm that assesses road conditions based on age and traffic patterns. This ensures that the most critical roads are prioritized for maintenance. Community feedback, particularly complaints about road conditions, also plays a vital role in the decision-making process.

Commissioners expressed concerns about specific neighborhoods, such as Raven Guard, which have been advocating for road improvements for over 25 years. While there is hope for including these roads in future plans, officials noted that funding availability will ultimately dictate the feasibility of such projects.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from the Commission to address community needs while navigating the complexities of funding and jurisdictional responsibilities. As these projects move forward, residents can expect improvements that enhance both safety and accessibility throughout Dougherty County.