Mr. Hawley presented preliminary plans for the Johnstown Drainage project seeking Committee guidance on budget and expected end product. Mr. Hawley further explained, with more direction from Committee, he will be able to draft a more accurate cost report.
Members inquired about the differences between the two options Mr. Hawley presented. It was noted that option 1 included curbs and gutters, while option 2 did not, explaining in further detail the pricing differences between the two options.
Members inquired as to where the proposed asphalt cut for placement of drainage pipes was planned. Mr. Hawley explained as there is no current sanitary system to navigate, the cut could be made anywhere, however, it was his suggestion to have it run along the side of the road. Mr. Hawley requested further direction from Committee on whether the Township intended to place new asphalt over the road or simply repair the cut made for the placement of the pipes, explaining there would be a cost difference between the two options. Members inquired if the placement could be made without cutting into the existing asphalt. Mr. Hawley explained it could not as it would undermine the pavement.
Committee noted the overall superior look of the end product when including curbs and gutters, though it was noted that property owners have been without curb and gutter until now and are likely used to not having them, Members also noted that this section was only one small part of the Johnstown Hamlet. Mr. Hawley pointed out that the decisions made in this area will essentially "set the standard" of future infrastructure improvements for the area.
Members voiced their concern with the length of time this project has taken, noting the process started back in 2009, and inquired if there was any way to get construction under way this year noting that next year was an election year and budget would likely restrict proceedings further. Mr. Hawley advised waiting to tender the project until late fall 2021 or January 2022, cautioning of increased costs associated with pushing the start date ahead as contractors already have projects for the summer/fall and could possibly raise fees if pressured to take on another project, as well touched on the many variables still not determined such as permits etc. that could cause delays and added costs if construction was to get underway. He further noted the need of a public information session before work proceeded. Members inquired of the possibility of starting half of the project this year and the costs associated with doing that. Mr. Hawley explained it was not his recommendation to do this, however agreed a ball park cost of approximately $500,000 would not be unreasonable for the West side of Mary St. to Hwy #2 but he could not definitively give a cost estimate with current fluctuating prices.
Committee noted drainage in the area has always been a problem, and that there have been several attempts to mitigate these issues through placement of culverts etc. Members noted their concern of flat curbs with option #2, pointing out the possibility of the public driving over the curbs and causing expedited wear and tear leading to earlier than expected upkeep. Members inquired about the possibility of individual public members requesting driveways be included in the project. Mr. Hawley advised Members to avoid incorporating driveway requests from the public for contractor work and instead encourage members of the public to approach the contractor on an individual basis.
Committee members inquired if it would be beneficial to "mesh" the Spencerville Drainage project with the Johnstown one. Mr. Hawley explained it was not advisable to combine the two projects due to the travel distance, two crews will still be required and travel time will be a factor into the cost.
Members noted their impatience to get this project underway, however accepted that perhaps a better approach would be to have all permits, tender in the fall etc. and have the work lined up for early next year and get everything done right in one shot.
Mr. Hawley noted the success that the Village of Westport had with a similar tender which they released this past Easter, noting the savings the Village of Westport benefited from due to the timing of tender, and informed Committee that the project was completed last week.
Members ensured Mr. Hawley had received the required direction from Committee, and thanked him for his presentation.