By 1808Delaware
The Powell City Council has officially adopted the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), outlining the city’s strategic investments in infrastructure and community development for the next five years. The plan, approved during the recent council meeting, includes a proposed $54.6 million in spending, with $14 million allocated for projects in 2025 alone.
Investing in Powell’s Future: Key Projects and Allocations
City Manager Andy White emphasized the importance of the CIP, stating, “Powell’s success relies on the infrastructure and services provided by the City. These capital investments in streets, parks, police, and other infrastructure will improve our community.” This year’s CIP includes 23 major projects, ranging from street maintenance to public safety improvements.
Here are some of the notable projects planned for 2025:
- Annual Street Maintenance and Repair Program: A $2.8 million investment will go towards maintaining and repairing streets and pedestrian paths across the city to keep them functional and safe.
- Scioto Street Extension and New Parking Lot: This $2.4 million project will extend Scioto Street from Liberty Street to Grace Drive, adding a new public parking lot to ease parking concerns in the northeast quadrant.
- North Depot Street Reconstruction: Allocated $2.1 million, this project aims to completely reconstruct North Depot Street, including new sidewalks, paved parking, street lighting, and improved drainage.
- Lechler Building Renovation: The city plans to invest $1.3 million in renovating the historic Lechler Building, enhancing this key gateway into the community.
- Adventure Park Parking Expansion: A $650,000 project will expand parking facilities at Adventure Park, supporting increased usage from the newly constructed Pickleball Courts.
Addressing Community Needs: Parks, Public Safety, and More
The CIP also targets several other essential areas, including public safety enhancements and community amenities:
- Village Green Master Plan: With a $500,000 budget, this project will develop a master plan for Powell’s historic downtown and the Village Green property. The planning will include detailed analysis, data collection, and community input to revitalize the area.
- Adventure Park CSX Railroad Tunnel Rehabilitation: This $250,000 project focuses on repairing the deteriorating concrete structure of the CSX tunnel, ensuring safe and continued use of this crucial pedestrian pathway.
- Liberty Road Shared-Use Path Connection: A $170,000 initiative will connect the shared-use path on the east side of Liberty Road to the existing path on the west side of Murphy Parkway, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist connectivity.
- Outdoor Warning Sirens: With a $170,000 allocation, Powell will install new outdoor warning sirens to enhance public safety and improve response during severe weather conditions.
Funding and Financial Overview of the CIP
The funding for these projects will come from various sources, including Powell’s municipal income tax revenue and targeted grants. The city will also utilize a capital contingency fund of $300,000 to manage unexpected costs related to these initiatives.
Key departmental requests for 2025 include:
- Engineering Department: Allocated $8.6 million, this department will oversee major infrastructure projects, including street reconstructions, shared-use path expansions, and critical crosswalk improvements.
- Public Service Department: With $1 million in funding, this department will focus on vehicle and equipment replacements and installing outdoor warning sirens.
- Parks & Recreation: The department will receive $650,000 to address the growing demand for recreational facilities, including expanding parking at Adventure Park.
- Police Department: Allocations include $13,000 for police drones, $56,600 for security camera replacements, and $15,000 for upgrading aging rifles, enhancing the city’s law enforcement capabilities.
Looking Ahead: Powell’s Commitment to Growth and Improvement
Powell’s CIP reflects a commitment to maintaining and enhancing the city’s infrastructure, focusing on safety, accessibility, and community engagement. With these investments, Powell aims to create a more connected, vibrant, and resilient community.
Residents can review the complete Capital Improvement Plan and detailed project descriptions on the city’s official CIP page.
