The Ashland City Council meeting on December 3, 2024, focused on a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing the city's sanitary sewer system. The proposed project involves the construction of a new trunk line that will run from Fire Station Number 2 along US 42, ultimately relieving pressure on the existing sewer system in the southwest residential areas of the city.

City officials highlighted that the new trunk line is essential for accommodating future residential growth, particularly along Mifflin Avenue and US 42. Plans are already underway for a potential development of up to 400 housing units in the area, which could include various types of residences such as single-family homes and townhouses. The council emphasized the importance of having the necessary utility infrastructure in place to support this anticipated growth.

The estimated cost for the project is $425,000, which city officials plan to fund using remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money. The council is seeking approval to hire MS Consultants to conduct land surveys, design the trunk line, and prepare construction documents.

In addition to the sewer improvements, discussions also touched on the potential need for expanding the water supply in the area, as well as the possibility of enhancing transportation infrastructure, such as adding lanes or pedestrian pathways along US 42. City officials noted that the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has shown a willingness to collaborate on these initiatives, reflecting a statewide priority for increasing housing and residential development.

The meeting underscored the city's proactive approach to planning for future growth and ensuring that essential services can meet the demands of a growing population. The council's decision on the trunk line project will be a crucial step in facilitating this development.