Monticello plans for N. Sycamore reconstruction

     It was a packed house on Nov. 25 inside the Monticello City Council Chambers as city officials and residents met to discuss the N. Sycamore Street reconstruction project.

     “The project includes rehabilitation and reconstruction of N. Sycamore Street,” explained City Engineer Patrick Schwickerath with Snyder & Associates, Inc.

     The scope of the project involves the stretch of N. Sycamore from E. First Street north to E. Seventh Street. Preliminary construction costs are estimated at $2.4 million.

     Work would generally include new sanitary sewer, new water main, new subdrain, new storm sewer, new sidewalks, and a new 7-inch thick concrete pavement with 6-inch curb.

     So why is reconstruction needed?

     In Schwickerath’s professional opinion: “The existing pavement is in poor condition. This project should help reduce noise, reduce rough driving conditions, and improve timeliness of police, ambulance and/or fire due to the roadway improvements.” In addition, the project would also improve the ability to remove snow and ice, improve storm water drainage, reduce standing water, and improve the quality of street parking with reduced curb height.

     “There is ongoing maintenance related to the sanitary sewer due to it being in poor condition,” added Schwickerath. “Reconstructing the street and replacing the associated utilities will improve all of the items listed above.”

     This reconstruction project affects quite a lot of property owners at approximately 75. Schwickerath said the assessments have yet to be finalized in terms of what the property owners would be responsible for. However, he said it would be finalized prior to the project bid letting, which is set for early 2019.

     In comparison, though, recent city assessments have included: 4-foot width residential sidewalks, replaced driveways, and lineal feet of curb and gutter.

     With the project tentatively scheduled for spring 2019, Schwickerath said the hope is to have the road open by Thanksgiving 2019.

     “This is a large project and construction will be impacted by weather,” warned Schwickerath. “The final grading and seeding is planned for the spring of 2020.”

     The project will be put out for bid in February or March 2019.

     “Snyder & Associates appreciates the opportunity to help make this a successful project for the community,” offered Schwickerath.