The Carroll City Council gave their go-ahead for architects to continue with design work for the final phase of the Downtown Streetscape Project at their meeting earlier this week. The estimated $1.6 million project includes sidewalk improvements, updated lighting, and more on Highway 30 between Highway 71 and West Street and Clark Street to Grant Road on Highway 30. According to Public Works Director Randy Krauel, the architecture firm, Confluence, put its work on hold until the council okayed additional designs.
Approximately 25 percent of the design work for Phase 11, valued at $30,000, has already been completed by Confluence. Ward Four Councilwoman Carolyn Siemann favored continuing with the Streetscape Project, which has been underway for nearly 20 years.
Ward Two Councilwoman Misty Boes agreed with Siemann, noting many businesses along these areas of the corridor are in favor of the proposed improvements. Ward Three Councilman Kyle Bauer expressed concerns that some aspects of Phase 11, notably the plan to add additional sidewalks, seemed unnecessary.
Ward One Councilman Tom Bordenaro questioned their options if bids came in over the $1.6 million estimate a year from now. Krauel says designs are still in the very early stages, and the council will provide input along the way.
The council declined to move forward with the resolution canceling the design contract with Confluence. City officials must provide additional approval before the project can be completed. Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2023.
