Public Works recommends five‑year CIP; committee votes to forward to finance committee

Public Works staff summarized the proposed five‑year Capital Improvement Plan and associated planning process, lifecycle strategies and risks. Director (Rich) listed three primary risks: 11.5 miles of roadway projects depending on federal funding not yet secured; projects requiring exceptions to new standards for pedestrian and shoulder improvements; and construction inflation that continues to outpace other sectors.

Rich told the committee the CIP includes a $1,000,000 addition to the road and bridge fund targeted for small culvert repairs and identified 55 poor or very poor culverts across the county. He also flagged $5,225,000 of unscheduled projects pending the government‑center study and projected roughly $7,000,000 in planned projects over the next five years.

Committee member (motion maker) moved to recommend the five‑year CIP to the finance committee; the committee seconded the motion and approved it by voice vote.

The department also highlighted planned purchases and a renewed pavement‑preservation strategy intended to extend average pavement ratings toward the 30–35 year life‑cycle goal. Staff emphasized consultant peer reviews and the government‑center study that will inform scheduling and potential project shifts.