Durham Sewer Estimates Come in High

The Public Works Committee reviewed costs for the sanitary sewer portion of the Durham Drive reconstruction project, and the news wasn't good.

"Overall the bids came in about 20-50% higher than expected," said Noah Fiedler, Alderman for the 7th District as well as Public Works Chairman.  "Additional costs came in from the need to de-water the soil, which slows production and adds expense as crews lay pipe."

Several options were offered to the committee, requiring various levels of financial responsibility to close the gap from the original estimates. Committee members estimated the impact to residents' special assessments for the work would be as much as 33 percent, depending on the option.

A public hearing will be required because of the change, and Fiedler said, "we want to be able to hear from the citizens before we make any recommendations to council."

The hearing will be held on Tuesday, April 5 to discuss the proposed plan and increase to special assessments.  It is expected that if the Public Works Committee can make a recommendation that evening, the Common Council may vote on it by their next meeting in April.