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Council hears CIP update as University Avenue water‑main and resurfacing near completion
Summary
Public Works Director Hamza Javed reported progress across 32 CIP projects, said the University Avenue 12-inch water main is nearing completion with paving to follow in 4–6 weeks, and noted contractor staging and communication issues that staff will address.
Public Works Director Hamza Javed briefed the council on the Capital Improvement Plan, saying the city has 32 active projects across conceptual, design, construction and close-out phases. On University Avenue, Javed reported the 12-inch water main installation is substantially complete, and crews are finishing laterals and tie-ins. "The good news is that project, they have completed the installation of the water main...we are actually just maybe 6 weeks, 4 to 6 weeks away in wrapping that project up," Javed said.
Council members and residents pressed staff about construction impacts and contractor staging. Multiple public commenters described contractors leaving large equipment and portable toilets in front of Saint John Missionary Baptist Church on weekends, restricting congregants' access. Javed said staff will require designated staging areas in future project specifications and include maps identifying which hydrants belong to the city so contractors do not tap neighboring water systems. The presentation also updated progress and delays on the Newell Bridge and East Bayshore projects, Rutgers Trail Gate (regulatory concurrence issues), and Safer Bay levee work, which staff said will likely require substantial additional grant funding because recent estimates rose sharply.
