Council backs application for Brexville Road water-main replacement and resurfacing project; $30 million estimate cited

The City Council authorized the mayor to prepare and submit an application to participate in state capital and local transportation programs for Brexville Road (State Route 21) phase 2 and 3 water-main replacements and resurfacing, and placed that authorization on the consent agenda.

Engineering staff presented the application as a multi-year, comprehensive infrastructure project affecting water mains and roadway resurfacing. "It's a $30,000,000 overall infrastructure cost," the presenter said, and staff described the preferred funding scenario as 40% grant and 60% local match. The presenter also said "nearly 2,000,000 of that is, committed by ODA for services" as part of the local funding picture.

Staff said the application was due to the state this Thursday and that the project is a candidate for funding under OPWC and local transportation programs. The design and construction would be phased; staff described phase 1 as design and initial construction in 2026 and anticipated additional construction in later years. Staff noted the scope includes water-main replacement, curb repairs and downtown streetscape elements and that some segments could be constructed in separate phases.

Council asked about specific technical details included in the application. One council member asked whether there are 87 lead connections on Brexville Road (the packet showed a count); staff said records indicate a number of lead connections but that field verification is ongoing. Staff said the total project would likely be constructed over two years with design and permitting first.

The ordinance to allow submission of the application was listed as Ordinance 2025-114 and was placed on the consent agenda; the consent agenda passed by roll call, advancing the application authorization.

Staff emphasized the application deadline and the need to authorize submission promptly; the council authorized staff to submit the application and pursue grant awards and matching sources.