The Goldsboro City Council convened on September 22, 2025, to discuss critical infrastructure improvements, focusing primarily on a pavement preservation program aimed at enhancing the city's streets. The meeting began with a presentation by city officials outlining the need for funding strategies to address the ongoing maintenance and improvement of roadways.

City Manager Kelly introduced the session by referencing a previous comprehensive study on the city's streets, which highlighted a significant funding gap of approximately $2 million annually needed to maintain current street quality. With only $1.2 million allocated for this year, the council is exploring options to bridge this financial shortfall.

Jonathan, a representative from the city's public works department, detailed the proposed pavement preservation strategies. He emphasized that the initiative is not solely about repairing damaged streets but also about extending the lifespan of well-maintained roads. The presentation included various cost-effective treatments such as crack sealing, microsurfacing, rejuvenators, and traditional reconstruction methods.

Crack sealing was highlighted as a proactive measure to prevent water damage by filling cracks in the pavement, thereby extending its life. Microsurfacing, a technique that involves applying a polymer-modified asphalt mixture, was noted for its ability to fill ruts and improve surface conditions without extensive utility adjustments. Although rejuvenators were not included in this year's plan, they were mentioned as a future consideration for restoring asphalt durability.

The council discussed the importance of these treatments in improving public safety and driving comfort, as well as their potential to enhance the overall pavement condition rating. Jonathan provided visual aids to illustrate the application processes and benefits of each method.

As the meeting progressed, the council members expressed their support for the pavement preservation program and discussed the need for a consensus on moving forward with the proposed strategies. The session concluded with plans for further discussions on how to secure additional funding for future street improvements.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to maintaining and enhancing its infrastructure, with a clear focus on proactive measures to ensure the longevity and safety of Goldsboro's streets. The council plans to revisit funding options and strategies in upcoming sessions to address the identified gaps in street maintenance funding.