Local Engineering Firm Awarded Manor Township Project

by Jonathan Weaver

Manor Township’s go-to engineering firm will also be responsible for a water line extension project in the township later this year.

Last night, County Planning and Development’s Community Development Coordinator Kathy Heilman discussed the recent request for engineering proposals advertised for the Boyd Road Water Line Extension Project.

“On February 29, we received four engineering proposals – from Bankson Engineers, Gibson-Thomas Engineering, Markosky Engineering and Senate Engineering,” Heilman said. “At this time, we recommend Senate Engineering at a price not to exceed $11,000.”

Manor Township Supervisors Paul Rearick, Bob Southworth and Don Palmer unanimously agreed with Heilman’s recommendation. Supervisors must recommend Senate Engineering’s appointment to the county commissioners since the county will officially receive the grant funds and it will be disbursed to Manor Township.

According to the advertised request that began during the second week of February, the proposed scope of work includes the installation of approximately 300 feet of water line pipe; 30 feet of 3/4” service line, three service connections including corporation cocks, three curb boxes and three curb stops , and the connection to existing water line, among other specifics.

A trio of households will be provided a potable water source eliminating the need for a private well to provide water for their consumption.

Previous experience on similar projects and technical qualifications and ability to complete the project during the next year were all considered with the application.

Completed proposals were due by 4PM Monday afternoon.

In 2012 and 2013, money was earmarked for resurfacing and drainage improvements along Short Street (which is only a block over from School Street), and that project was recently completed.

Shadco, LLC of Marion Center was the contractor responsible for improving road conditions for about five households.

About $48,750 was designated to extend water service to three residences along Boyd Road (based on the road’s condition and engineering) and the remaining funds were allocated toward housing rehabilitation.

The water line extension project will be completed this year.

Hileman is currently working on collecting income surveys to possibly reconstruct Iseman Hill Road with the next grant allocation. Public hearings to address possible uses of 2016 funds may begin as soon as this Summer.