Newport reports progress on 100 capital projects; streets, water, parks and airport upgrades highlighted

Newport city officials presented an update on the city’s capital projects during a work session, saying the fiscal‑year portfolio contains 100 projects: 45 in progress, 30 not started, 16 completed and nine on hold.

City Manager Nina said staff selected a subset of projects to highlight, noting staff capacity and timing with state and federal funding as recurring constraints. "We're relying on other sources of funds often," she said, and added that some projects are long‑term or carryovers.

The presentations prioritized projects that affect public safety and daily services. The largest categories citywide are streets and sidewalks, followed by city facilities, water, parks and other infrastructure. Speakers described budgeted amounts, near‑term construction schedules and funding sources for several projects.

Chris, a project manager with the city, described work at the Visual Arts Center, where an aging timber staircase was replaced. The project had an original budget estimate of $125,000; construction costs were about $20,000. "We got a really good deal on it," he said, and staff reported the stairway is safer and more user friendly.

At the recreation center, staff upgraded an HVAC control system installed in 1999. The project was budgeted at $185,000 (75% general fund, 25% room tax). Construction costs are near $176,000 and the system is roughly 90–95% complete; the remaining work awaits arrival of some parts.

Fire Chief Murphy gave an update on the combined‑use facility in…