Committee hears Crosscreek slope stabilization, Ridge Road tie‑in, Turnpike mitigation delay and NEORSD project timing

Engineering Department representative Brian Binsley told the Storm Water Committee on May 7, 2025 that two stormwater system applications were approved: a Crosscreek HOA slope stabilization that will include dewatering, excavation and installation of a gabion wall, and a localized flooding fix at 11105 Ridge Road that will allow a homeowner to tie a downspout and footer drains into the storm sewer. The city will fund 25% of the Crosscreek project up to $7,500; the remaining cost is the HOA’s responsibility.

Mayor Larry Antoskiewicz reminded applicants that the cost‑share program requires residents to apply for grants before work begins; the fund is not a reimbursement program and applications received after work may not be eligible. "Grants are awarded before the work has started," he said. Ms. Webber noted the program’s multi‑criteria application and that projects must meet at least one qualifying criterion.

Binsley also reported that the Turnpike mitigation project's sale date was pushed back after utility coordination with ODOT revealed a Cleveland Electric easement limiting work in the area; staff are clarifying easement language and now anticipate a sale in the first quarter of 2026. On regional projects, Binsley said NEORSD’s Thornhurst stream restoration has a pre‑construction meeting scheduled for the coming Friday and construction is likely to begin in late May; tree clearing was completed before April 1 to avoid Indiana bat restrictions. The Applewood culvert replacement requires vacating the Wildwood Drive stub street and that administrative process has delayed construction while staff consult homeowners who have been receptive, Binsley said.

Committee members asked about funding and timing; no final contract awards or construction start dates beyond the cited estimates were recorded in the meeting.