Warwick officials discuss $3.8M paving budget and road maintenance strategies

The City of Warwick held its FY26 Budget Hearing on May 19, 2025, focusing primarily on the city's asphalt and paving budgets. The discussion highlighted the city's request for a total of $110,000 for asphalt and street maintenance, which is crucial for ongoing road repairs, including pothole filling and small asphalt repairs.

Public Works Director Kristen Moretti clarified that the paving budget, which totals approximately $3.8 million, is funded through reimbursements from Rhode Island Energy and is not part of the operating budget. This budget allows the city to manage road repairs effectively, ensuring that when utility companies cut into roads for maintenance, the city can repave curb to curb, adhering to state regulations.

The meeting also addressed the costs associated with road maintenance. It was noted that resurfacing a mile of road typically costs around $400,000, although this can vary based on the method used. Warwick is responsible for about 390 miles of roads, and the need for a long-term paving schedule was discussed. Currently, the city does not have a comprehensive plan due to the dynamic nature of road maintenance needs and funding constraints.

Concerns were raised about the sufficiency of the current budget allocations for long-term road maintenance. Moretti emphasized the importance of preventative maintenance, stating that while the city is efficient with its resources, additional funding would enhance their ability to maintain roads effectively. The discussion underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing budget constraints with the need for adequate road maintenance to ensure safety and accessibility for residents.

As the city moves forward, the implications of these budget discussions will be critical in determining the future condition of Warwick's roads and the overall effectiveness of its public works initiatives.