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Gaysport stormwater project may be delayed by archaeological review, borough told
Summary
Consultants have found artifacts during a phase 2 investigation; the state historic preservation office (SHPO) review and subsequent DEP permitting could push construction into midsummer or later; grant funding runs through 2029.
HOLLidaysburg, Pa. — Council received an update on the Gatesport (Gaysport) stormwater mitigation project on March 13 and was told archaeological finds have extended the schedule.
Ethan (project lead) told council consultants have located pottery and arrowheads during a phase 2 archaeological investigation. "We haven't found any human remains," he said, but added that additional finds could require a phase 3 investigation, which is typically triggered if human remains or other significant finds emerge.
Ethan explained the next steps: consultants document artifacts (photographs, write-ups and location information) and submit that material to the State Historic Preservation Office, which has 30 days to review. After SHPO sign-off, the borough can pursue a DEP permit for the work; the DEP process can take about 60 days. Taken together, those permitting steps could push active construction into midsummer. If a phase 3 investigation is required, consultants may need more time and the borough might have to rebid the project, which could delay construction into 2026.
Council members asked about grant timing. Ethan said the grant that funds the project runs through 2029, so the borough is not at immediate risk of losing funding because of the current archaeological work.
Why it matters: Stormwater mitigation is intended to reduce flooding and protect properties in the Gatesport neighborhood. Archaeological reviews are a standard part of many publicly funded construction projects and can add time for documentation and state review.
Next steps: Consultants will complete phase 2 documentation and submit to SHPO; council expects an update at the next meeting on whether a phase 3 investigation is required.
