Mr. Shahda for a Capital Projects update.
A motion was made by Daryl Hendricks, seconded by Natalie Santos, that this Bill
is forwarded to full Council.
3 - Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos and Daryl Hendricks
Enactment No: 15936
Yes:
Updates
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that they are delighted to gather around this
evening and provide them with the Comprehensive Update on the ongoing
Capital Projects within the Public Works Department. He stated that
commitment to improving our city's infrastructure and services are at the
forefront of our efforts. He stated that they are excited to show the progress
and plans with you all this evening. Presently, the Public Works Department
is managing 26 Capital Projects. He is happy to report that four of the
projects are ready for closure due to the successful completion. He stated
that they are proud of the achievements. It contributes significantly to the
enhancement of our city. Additionally, our focus remains on the six annual
projects that they are currently overseeing. These initiatives which include
the Cost Share Program with UGI and LCA. Curb and sidewalk
construction, shade tree revitalization in the Streets Program. Constituents
are the core to our ongoing efforts. Each project is essential in maintaining
and improving our city's infrastructure on a constant basis. They have in
place three capital accounts that are earmarked for emergencies. These
accounts are instrumental in addressing critical needs such as urgent
bridge repairs, roof maintenance, and essential renovation to city hall.
Turning our attention to ARPA funds, they are thrilled to inform them about
the three projects that have been made possible through its funding. First,
the stormwater lining projects is in full swing and is expected to include this
summer. Additional funds have been allocated for the Operating Budget
for 2023 - 2024 ensuring the projects continuity and effectiveness. The
second and third ARPA funding projects encompass the watermain and
filter replacement initiatives. These projects are on track for completion in
the Fall of 2025. The water main replacement project, initially a part of
Cycle 7 has undergone a strategic shift and now will be combined with
Cycle 8 instruction in 2024. Meanwhile the water filter replacement project
is scheduled to commence construction in Spring 2024. Within the diverse
range of projects, this significant portion falls under Traffic and Planning.
The School Pedestrian Safety Improvements Project backed by the TASA
Grant is designed to enhance safety around our schools. It involves an
installation of new school zone flashers and an RRFB at Fourth and MLK.
Currently in its final design and bidding phase, this project is set to
commence construction later this year. The traffic signal modernization
project funded through the MTF PennDot Grant aims to modernize our
traffic signal systems. This initiative includes installing a new traffic signal
at 15th and Highland and upgrading two existing signals to integrate within
an adaptive system. While still in the preliminary design stage, this project
holds immense promise for improved traffic management. Diving further