Vermilion residents concerned about deteriorating streets got a clearer picture of what’s ahead during the March 10th Streets, Buildings, and Grounds Committee meeting. City officials debated which roads should be prioritized and how much funding can realistically be allocated for repairs in 2025.
How Much Can the City Spend?
City Finance Director Amy Hendricks informed the committee that the current road budget is sitting close to zero. However, the city’s General Fund is projected to have a $4.8 million carry-over, with an additional $400,000 allocated for advanced funds. This led to a debate over how much money should be transferred to the streets program, with $2 million being the likely figure.
Hendricks added, “We’re already budgeting to spend over $2 million more than we’re taking in this year. We need to be careful.”
Which Roads Need Immediate Attention?
City Engineer Chris Howard outlined several high-priority streets that need significant repairs. These roads have failed base layers, meaning simple resurfacing isn’t an option. Instead, they require complete reconstruction.
- Pineview Drive – 1,400 feet of road, estimated at $1.3 million
- Brownhelm Station Road – From Highbridge to Vermilion roads, estimated at $1.46 million
- Hollyview Drive – From Forestview Drive to Mapleview Drive, estimated at $1.18 million
“These roads aren’t getting any better,” Ward 4 Councilman Jeff Lucas said. “We’re dealing with raised manhole covers, potholes, and buckling concrete.”
Councilman Lucas pointed out that Pineview Drive scored a 36 on the Pavement Condition Rating scale but has now dropped to a 15—well into the “beyond very poor” category. Hollyview Drive’s rating also declined from 29.6 in 2018 to just 14.5.
Debate Over Spending and Priorities
With multiple streets in need of major work, council members debated whether to focus on a single major project or spread funds across several repairs.
Councilman Greg Drew urged caution, saying, “Let’s tackle Pineview and see what the numbers really are before committing to more.” Others pushed to take on multiple projects at once, arguing that waiting longer will only make the costs rise.
In the end, council approved motions to move forward with design work for both Pineview Drive and Brownhelm Station Road.
What Happens Next?
- Engineering designs will be completed for Pineview Drive and Brownhelm Station Road before final funding decisions are made. Pineview Drive is going to get the green light to go to bed most likely and the viability of repairing Brownhelm Station will be discussed after design.
- Council will verify that previously approved OPWC grant funds have been properly budgeted.
- City leaders will explore professional road assessments to help guide future spending decisions.
Other Roadwork in 2025
- Haley Street – OPWC funding secured, but work will likely start after the new police station is completed.
- Sunnyside Road (Phase 3) – Already out for bid, funded through NOACA.
- West River Road (In Township) – Township-funded work, but no city involvement this year.
- Nautical Dr.
- Larchmont Dr. was selected for repair last year, but the work had not yet started because the geotechnical report was only recently completed. The report confirmed that the road has no base and will require full reconstruction
With millions of dollars at stake and Vermilion’s roads continuing to deteriorate, residents are encouraged to stay involved in the conversation. The coming months will be critical in determining how much funding is allocated and whether additional streets make the cut for repairs.
