Old Town resident urges clearer advance notice after three overlapping construction projects

A Midlothian homeowner urged the city to ensure residents receive direct notice before construction that will affect their property or access. Michael Clark said his Old Town neighborhood experienced three major projects at once — gas‑line upgrades, street reconstruction and sidewalk construction — and that residents often learned about work only after crews arrived.

"When construction will significantly impact the homeowner's property, access, utilities, or parking, I would like the city to provide clear direct notice before the work begins," Clark said. He described equipment blocking both access points to his house, a prior $2,500 emergency repair after a gas project, and concern that relocation of a gas meter became a permanent curbside fixture.

City staff did not contest the description of Clark's experience and the mayor thanked him for raising the issue; staff follow‑up was requested at the dais. Clark recommended notice be provided early enough for residents to make parking and access arrangements and for the city to coordinate work when multiple projects could overlap. The council did not vote on a specific ordinance, but staff were asked to look into ways to improve advance notification and coordination between utilities and the city's project schedules.

Next steps: Council asked staff to follow up with Public Works on Clark's specific address and to report back on possible formal notice procedures for projects that materially affect private access or utilities.