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City clarifies O'Connor Pump Station funding and Woodland Avenue earmark status
Summary
Staff told the council that phase 1 of the O'Connor Pump Station project has funding while a larger phase 2 remains unfunded (estimated at about $18 million); a $2 million congressional earmark for Woodland Avenue was not included in the final budget but is expected to be resubmitted.
During the study session, council members asked for specifics on projects tied to federal or grant funds. An agency representative clarified the funding status for two infrastructure items frequently discussed by the council.
Staff explained that the O'Connor Pump Station project has funding secured for phase 1, which will replace one diesel pump and retrofit the underground tank and piping. "Phase 1 is the project that's gonna replace 1 diesel pump and also retrofit the underground diesel tank and, retrofit the existing piping," the respondent said, adding that phase 2 is a much larger retrofit estimated at about $18,000,000 and is not yet funded.
On the Woodland Avenue safety improvements, staff noted a $2 million congressional earmark had been proposed but did not make it into the final federal budget; council was told the congressman intends to resubmit the request. Council members stressed the importance of distinguishing projects the city must complete because of funding obligations from those that are discretionary when setting priorities.
Staff told the council they will highlight grant- or contract‑backed carryover projects in the June memorandum so the council can see which projects are effectively mandatory to continue and which may be deprioritized.
