By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
Despite a request to the contrary from a contingent of residents, portions of city infrastructure remain in the plans for a small neighborhood street near Whitewater’s Armory building, following a recent decision by officials.
The Common Council on March 17 voted to retain curb-and-gutter into the city’s construction plans for George Street, a mostly residential corridor that runs in a cul-de-sac.
In addition to the curb-and-gutter, city officials planned other improvements for the area, including sidewalks — which have been deleted from the plans — and upgrades to water and sanitary sewer lines.
The curb-and-gutter component was put on the backburner in early February when several nearby residents implored city officials to reconsider their plans for the area.
Many of the vocal opponents especially expressed a desire to nix the sidewalk plans since the area is not heavily trafficked. But concerns about curb-and-gutter also entered the picture.
Residents also wanted to know whether the work would impact potential flooding in the area — particularly with Whitewater Creek being in close proximity. Since the meeting early this year, the city enlisted the expertise of contracted engineers through the firm Strand Associates.
Mark Fischer, project manager with Strand Associates, addressed the flooding concerns in correspondence to the city.
“It should be noted that the George Street reconstruction project will not address issues related to flooding of Whitewater Creek,” Fischer wrote. “The curb and gutter and storm sewer infrastructure proposed for George Street will, however, address nuisance drainage problems associated with routine rain events.”
Other concerns raised about the George Street work point to larger-scale issues in the city. Plans have been in motion to specially assess impacted property owners for the work taking place. However, city officials have since decided to review the overarching policy. Further deliberation is planned in the months ahead.
George Street is one of several roadways included in this year’s capital improvement plan. The initial projection for the work clocked in at $1.4 million.
