Councillors approve additional $300,000 for Lindbergh Drive project
September 25, 2024 at 3:45 AM
The town is dipping into one of its reserve funds to pay for extra costs associated with an infrastructure project on Lindbergh Drive.
A staff report sought approval to increase the budget for the project by $300,000, with the extra money coming out of the Roads Refurbishing Reserve. The report blamed “scope changes” for the need for added money.
The $300,000 comes on top of the $4.3 million that was budgeted. That number was also higher than what was initially approved by council and required a budget amendment when tenders came in higher than anticipated.
“This will allow us to complete the project based on what was said in the past and what we expect and what the residents expect,” said Kelly Walsh, director of infrastructure services.
The work being done includes reconstruction of watermains, sanitary sewers, storm sewers and roadways. Walsh described the vision of the project as a “semi-urban cross section” similar to work the town has done at Daytona Drive and Lakeside Road.
“It has all the typical infrastructure underground but it’s lacking a curb and gutter system so we address drainage through shallow swales, not ditches,” Walsh said.
However, the report said minor changes to road elevations along with elevated foundations of nearby residences have “led to swales that are much deeper than originally expected.” The $300,000 is needed to address these changes and finish the project.
“That’s what was promised to the residents and that’s what we want to achieve in the end,” Walsh said, adding the idea of the swales was to promote positive drainage, but would also be easy to maintain.
Councillor George McDermott said he’s received some calls from residents concerned about what’s happening with the project.
“I know how proud these people are on this street,” he said. “I’ll put my trust in the infrastructure department to make sure the ship’s righted.”
Museum strategic plan developed with a sense of urgency
Council returns serve on tennis club agreement
Town ‘not prepared to spend $7M’ on Gibson Centre expansion
About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
Stay Informed