City Council delays Millett mill and overlay due to bridge construction impacts

In the heart of Victoria City Hall, city officials gathered to discuss crucial infrastructure projects that will shape the community's future. The meeting, held on July 1, 2025, revealed significant updates on road improvements, utility upgrades, and the anticipated delays affecting key projects.

One of the primary topics was the postponement of the mill and overlay project on Millett Road, initially slated to begin this year. City officials recognized that heavy truck traffic would soon flood the area due to ongoing bridge reconstruction, making it impractical to invest in road improvements that could be damaged shortly after completion. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has delayed the bridge project, prompting the city to reassess its timeline for road work. "We’d hate to spend a couple hundred thousand dollars doing a mill and overlay, and then those trucks just tear it up," one official noted, emphasizing the need for strategic planning.

As the discussion progressed, the council outlined plans for fiscal year 2026, which include a series of residential street projects across various neighborhoods. Notable improvements will target Bronson Terrace, Red River Heights, and Springwood additions, with a focus on enhancing accessibility and safety for residents. The council also highlighted the importance of utility work, particularly the replacement of aging water lines, to ensure reliable service for the community.

In addition to residential projects, the council is prioritizing thoroughfare improvements, including the paving and drainage work on North Street Phase 3A. This project will coincide with ongoing utility upgrades, although officials acknowledged that some work would extend into the school year, potentially causing disruptions. "We just hope the public is listening and they'll figure that out once we get there," one council member remarked, underscoring the need for community awareness.

Looking ahead to fiscal year 2028, the council proposed an ambitious budget of approximately $3.7 million for residential street projects and $15 million for thoroughfare improvements. These plans include significant upgrades to John Stockbauer and Airline Road, as well as the construction of a grit removal structure at the regional wastewater treatment plant. The council aims to ensure that all streets within the Springwood subdivision are brought up to standard, creating a cohesive and well-maintained neighborhood.

As the meeting concluded, city officials expressed optimism about the future of Victoria's infrastructure. With careful planning and community engagement, they hope to navigate the challenges ahead and deliver essential improvements that will benefit residents for years to come. The discussions highlighted a commitment to not only maintaining but enhancing the quality of life in Victoria, ensuring that the city remains a vibrant place to live and work.