Fletcher says park repairs are underway, bids advertised for bridge and streambank work; $133,000 in FEMA reimbursements received

The Town Manager reported several storm-recovery projects under way and noted progress and remaining work for the town’s park and greenway system.

Contractor work on the ball fields, multi-use courts and dog park is underway but slower than anticipated because of material-delivery delays; the dog park is complete and some fencing and posts are in place. Town staff said electrical repairs at the park are nearly finished. McGill Associates prepared specifications for repair work at a damaged pedestrian bridge and two sections of stream bank; the bids were advertised and a pre-bid meeting for contractors is scheduled for May 15, with bids due May 27. The town emphasized adherence to FEMA reimbursement requirements as it finalizes scope and contracts.

Debris removal of vegetative brush and construction/demolition materials in town is substantially complete, though large stumps and heavy vegetative debris still require contractor removal. The manager said municipal crews helped the county effort and municipal brush pickup has returned to normal schedules.

The town has received just over $133,000 in FEMA reimbursements to date and expects additional funds as projects proceed. Council members raised concerns about stream debris in Cane Creek and other waterways and urged staff to seek clearer county schedules for removal and next steps.

Next steps: staff will host a pre-bid meeting, receive contractor bids on May 27, seek approval of a responsible bidder, and proceed with repairs in a manner designed to preserve FEMA reimbursement eligibility.