Residents press borough to finish Division Street alley paving after paver failure

Two property occupants, David Cook and Mary Smith of 137 and 137A North Railroad Street, told borough council on Aug. 26 that the Division Street alley between their building and the Caring Cupboard remains in a disrupted, partially prepped condition after work began in 2024 and stalled.

Cook and Smith said the borough started prep work in 2024 but never completed paving; they reported a lip of two to three inches where the alley was cut, potholes that fill after rain, and residual tar that tracks into residences. Smith said the temporary repairs appear to break down quickly after rain. Cook asked whether the borough had repaired its paver machine; borough staff said the paver is “dead,” parts are not available and the borough is exploring options including renting a paver or soliciting bids from local contractors.

Borough staff told the speakers they are looking at bids from local contractors and are assessing whether manpower and budget allow completing the work this year. Staff also said the borough previously tried to fix the paver but determined parts were unavailable and that options include purchasing or renting a replacement machine or contracting out the work. Councilors acknowledged delays and said recent staffing losses and other public-works issues had contributed to the slowdown.

No formal vote or directive was recorded to require immediate paving; residents asked for an update at next month’s meeting and councilors agreed to attempt to provide one. Cook asked the borough to provide at least a minimal interim report next meeting — for example, whether bids have been solicited or a contractor selected — and to clarify responsibility and timetable. Borough staff said obtaining a working paver is a current priority.

Why it matters: The uncompleted alley affects private parking and everyday access for residents and small businesses; residents described repeated impacts to vehicles and homes when temporary repairs fail during rain. The council and staff said they will prioritize resolving the equipment gap and will pursue bids or rental options so crews can complete paving and patch the damaged areas.

The matter remains in the discussion/inquiry stage. Residents said they will return next month for an update.