Kernersville adopts budget amendment, awards signal contract for Fire Station 42

The Kernersville Board of Aldermen approved Budget Amendment No. 10 at its May 5 meeting, increasing general‑fund expenditures for several department needs and authorizing a contract to install an emergency traffic signal to aid responses from Fire Station 42.

Town Manager Mr. Swisser said the amendment includes nine expenditure increases, the largest being $220,000 for a traffic signal at Highway 66 at Station 42; the town expects $200,000 in state DOT funds and anticipates an additional $50,000 contribution. The amendment also adds $52,000 for a cybersecurity firewall upgrade (offset by a Department of Public Safety grant), $65,000 for gasoline and diesel in public services, $187,000 in outside legal fees for governing‑body matters, and reimbursements for sidewalk work and a Harmon Lane sidewalk grant reimbursement of $77,000.

Following the budget amendment vote, the board authorized a $28,969 contract to Traffic Control Devices LLC to begin installation of the emergency signal. Members discussed a nearby drainage and road‑geometry issue on Highway 66 that, they said, could create hazardous conditions in certain weather; board members encouraged continued coordination with NCDOT should funds or opportunity arise to correct road geometry and drainage.

The board approved the budget amendment and contract by unanimous voice votes. Staff said the signal installation will proceed with the grant funding in place and that they will continue outreach with state DOT regarding drainage and safety in the corridor.