By AUBRIE GEORGE
The township is taking precaution to ensure four roadways won’t present dangerous flooding or icing issues come cold weather.
Last week, Council awarded four contracts for drainage improvement projects at Baker Boulevard, Pelham Road, Country Lakes Drive, and Tara Terrace.
The projects are part of the 2010 budget’s capital improvement plan. All four were issues brought to the township’s attention by concerned residents, Township Manager Tom Czerniecki said.
Ocean Excavating, Inc. of Toms River will perform drainage improvements at both Baker Boulevard and Tara Terrace. The contract awarded for Baker Boulevard is not to exceed $22,805 for improvements including the installation of a new curb drain.
At Tara Terrace, officials awarded a contract not to exceed $22,750, to replace an under drain because drainage problems cause flooding at the intersection with Meadow Lane as well as flooding in nearby residents’ basements.
Sansalone Excavating, Inc. of Vineland will install inlets and a new under drain system along Pelham Road to fix ponding problems for a contract not to exceed $32,380. At County Lakes Drive, Giberson Plumbing and Excavating, Inc. of Shamong will replace a drain that causes flooding for a contract not to exceed $13,500.
Czerniecki said the improvement projects would address public safety concerns, particularly in wet and cold conditions, when flooding and icing could cause car accidents.
Officials said it would be a priority to have all four projects completed before cold weather arrives and icing could occur.
The Council meeting scheduled for Oct. 19 has been cancelled. Council will hold a special meeting on Oct. 14 at 7:30 p.m. where former mayor Gus Tamburro will receive the title of Mayor Emeritus.
Council is scheduled to meet for their next regular action meeting on Nov. 9 at 6:30 p.m.
