Road works

As most municipalities across the province, the Town of Springdale is no exception when it comes to dealing with roads that have seen better days.

But with recent gas tax funding from the federal government, a stretch of road littered with potholes may get a facelift.

The town is slated to receive $488,475 over the next four years in eight equal installments starting in October.

With this extra cash, Shawn Weir, deputy mayor and chair of the public works committee, said council is looking at the possibility of having the stretch of road from Rideout's Convenience Store to Main St., paved and drainage issues fixed.

"That stretch of road wasn't something we planned on doing," he said. "But because of the conditions this year, it has been the most common complaint from residents, so we've shifted our focus for the gas tax money and we're hoping to do it."

He said that portion of road has always been on the agenda to fix, but their focus was repairing side streets, and most of them are anticipated to be finished this year.

Mr. Weir said council is also considering adding sidewalks on that stretch.

In addition, there's some "indication that we may put three lanes there."

The third lane would be used as a turnoff lane to businesses.

"That has been a suggestion that is quite doable along that stretch," he said.

But before any work can be carried out, the town's engineering consultant, Cecon, will be in Springdale this week to estimate the cost of the project.

Because the stretch of road isn't too long, and drainage work doesn't appear to be extensive, Mr. Weir is confident the nearly $500,000 will cover construction costs.

He said council will also pressure the provincial government to pave the road from Little Bay Junction to Rideout's Convenience Store.

"Everybody is affected by it," he said. "Whether it's anybody new coming into town, or the many residents who travel it numerous times a day."

Bayview Road.

After finding out the work on Bayview Road was going to cost an additional $89,193, council decided to act.

Mr. Weir said council has been informed the provincial government will assist with the cost overrun.

"The exact spilt we're still unsure of," he said. "We're hoping it's 90-10."

The deputy mayor said if the split isn't 90-10, it will be divided equally by three levels of government.

The tender for water and sewer work on Bayveiw Road was awarded to Piercon Ltd., of Gander for $481,190.

Mr. Weir said unforeseen circumstances and outdated mapping of the underground water and sewer system resulted in the overrun.