By Tim Cox
tcox@dailystandard.com The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has approved the reconstruction of a long stretch of Main Street through Celina in 2009.
ODOT will cover the bulk of the estimated $1.7 million project to completely rebuild Main Street and all curbs and sidewalks between Lake Shore Drive and Livingston Street. ODOT officials rejected the proposed reconstruction of Main Street from Livingston Street to Johnson Avenue for the 2010 construction season.
A smattering of applause broke out among Celina City Council members after city consultant Kent Bryan announced the ODOT grant award Monday night.
City officials are trying to secure additional ODOT money for decorative street lighting and other possible enhancements of the portion of the Main Street project that was approved, city consultant Kent Bryan said.
The work will involve completely digging out and rebuilding the street surface, including taking out the bricks that long ago formed the street surface. The underlying bricks have caused problems during past resurfacing projects. City officials also are planning to replace the water main underneath the street when the street is rebuilt. No ODOT money will go toward the utilities work.
In addition to rebuilding the street, city officials also hope to bury overhead power lines and other conduit. If ODOT comes through with further funding, the "sea of wires" hanging along Main Street will be moved out of public sight, Bryan said. |
