VERMILION — Several road and infrastructure projects are expected across Vermilion in the coming months, according to an update provided by the city engineer during Monday night’s Streets, Buildings and Grounds Committee meeting.
During the March 9 council meeting, the engineer outlined multiple projects involving road reconstruction, drainage improvements, water line work and pedestrian safety upgrades planned across the city. One project received approval to go out to bid immediately, while several others are expected to move forward later this year.
This was not presented as a complete list of all road work or infrastructure projects that may happen in Vermilion this year. Instead, the report focused on projects currently being discussed publicly and those moving through planning, funding or bidding stages. Other projects may be addressed later as timelines, funding and project details come together.
Safe Routes to School project
One of the first projects discussed was Phase 3 of the city’s Safe Routes to School program.
Council approved a motion during the meeting authorizing the project to go out to bid.
The project will install a sidewalk on the east side of State Route 60 beginning near Sailorway and continuing south toward the railroad tracks for approximately 2,100 feet. The project will also include a pedestrian crossing that connects to an existing sidewalk on the west side of Route 60.
Federal funding of up to $362,443 is available for construction, inspection and administration. Bids must be received by April 16. If the city receives an acceptable bid, construction could begin in mid-June with completion expected in September.
Highbridge Road reconstruction – Phase 3
Another project expected to move forward this year is Phase 3 of the Highbridge Road reconstruction project.
The work will reconstruct approximately 900 feet of roadway beginning north of the previously completed bridge project and extending toward Parkside Reserve.
The existing pavement is about 19 feet wide. Plans call for widening the roadway to two 11-foot lanes with 4-foot paved shoulders on both sides.
The city received $325,000 in grant funding and an additional $118,000 loan through the Ohio Public Works Commission.
The project has not yet been authorized for bidding. Utility relocation work by Columbia Gas is expected to occur in early May before construction can move forward.
Haley Street reconstruction
Haley Street is also scheduled for reconstruction from State Route 60 to Douglas Street, covering approximately 875 feet.
The project will widen the roadway from about 21 feet to two 10-foot lanes with 2-foot paved shoulders. Storm sewer infrastructure will also be replaced and underdrains installed to improve drainage.
According to the engineer’s report, council will likely be asked in April to approve legislation allowing the project to go out to bid.
Jackson Street drainage improvements
Storm sewer improvements are also planned for Jackson Street.
The project will install storm sewer infrastructure to replace roadside drainage ditches and provide improved drainage along about 150 feet of roadway. The pavement will also be widened from roughly 18.5 feet to two 10-foot lanes.
The Jackson Street project will be funded entirely by the city and will require council approval to go out to bid at a future meeting.
Additional projects in planning
The engineer also outlined several additional infrastructure projects that remain in the planning or design stages.
These include Phase 4B reconstruction work on Vermilion Road, Phase 4 improvements to Highbridge Road, and a water line replacement project along Edgewater Boulevard.
Some of those projects are tied to grant funding that is expected to become available later this year, meaning construction timelines have not yet been finalized.
About the Author
I was under the impression that our roads in Valley View area would be a priority this year. Was I lied to again? I want to know how school safety for schoolchildren is best served by a sidewalk when the streets the schoolbus drives on are hazardous. This issue has been ongoing for the 48 years that we have lived here. I request an honest answer for once. When will this section of Hollyview be replaced? Or maybe, what century?