Officials discuss Echo Road relief sewer and downstream coordination with neighboring jurisdiction

City staff and consultants briefed the Public Improvements Committee and council on a multi-project stormwater package that included Echo Road relief sewer, downstream improvements, and other local relief sewers. DLZ engineers and city staff said one project — the Echo Road relief sewer — can be completed without downstream improvements but requires final authorization from neighboring Mineral Falls because the design ties into Mineral Falls’ storm sewer system. City staff also flagged that two property easements inside Stow remain to be acquired before work can proceed.

Council members asked whether projects must proceed sequentially and how the city’s five‑year capital improvement plan would accommodate the work. Staff said the projects are not strictly chronological, that some downstream improvements are entirely within Mineral Falls and will require interlocal discussions about cost participation and design, and that Echo Road remains the most immediately actionable Stow project if Mineral Falls signs off.

Committee members asked about scheduling, capital budget inclusion and the process for additional legislation. Staff said the final study was completed after the five‑year capital plan was adopted, which is why the projects were not already included in the adopted capital budget; completing Echo Road would require separate authorization and appropriation. Council agreed to discuss project priorities and potential timing when the capital improvement plan returns for further consideration.