Village Council Approves Funds for Lynn and Weber Street Improvements

Ohio Valley Outdoor Services, LLC Selected as Contractor

RUTLAND - Lynn Avenue, Lynn Street and Weber Street will each receive improvements following legislation sponsored by Councilman Corey Arnold and passed by the Rutland Village Council appropriating public funds for storm sewer, ditch excavation and culvert repairs, with Ohio Valley Outdoor Services, LLC, selected as the general contractor.

Mayor Eblin explains the Lynn project was first envisioned in the spring of 2022 under then-Street Commissioner James Cline, who estimated a project budget of approximately $8,041.00. Following an unexpected decline in the Commissioner's health, several requests for proposals were since solicited from area contractors with bids far exceeding the original Commissioner's estimate, which could not be included in the fiscal year 2024 budget.

In January 2024, the Village received an Engineer's estimate for $120,000.00, which included the installation of a new storm sewer system along and the resurfacing of Lynn Avenue and Lynn Street, which was subsequently included in an application filed with the Appalachian Regional Commission for funding, which was not selected.

"The Village has kept the Lynn neighborhood on its radar for quite some time and I know us moving forward with the selection of a contractor to complete the necessary storm sewer repairs is a sigh of relief for all residents affected," comments Mayor Eblin. "Ohio Valley and its owner, Travis Painter, stepped up to tackle this long overdue project and we sincerely appreciate his cooperation and willingness to help our community."

The Lynn Avenue-Lynn Street Storm Sewer Improvement Project is tentatively planned to commence in November, 2024, and includes the replacement of approximately 200 feet of storm sewer from the catch basin along State Route 124 parallel along Lynn Street to a new catch basin junction at the corner of Lynn Avenue and Lynn Street, followed by the installation of approximately 30 feet of storm sewer parallel to Lynn Avenue to an excavated ditch approximately 130 feet parallel to Lynn Avenue.

In addition to improvements planned for the Lynn neighborhood, the Weber Street Ditching, Regrading and Culvert Repair Project is tentatively planned to commence in November, 2024, and includes the excavation of a ditch, approximately 360 feet in length, from the paved surface parallel to the limestone surface for improved water collection and funneling to culverts, which will also be replaced. The limestone portion of the roadway will be regraded and crowned to assist with water runoff.

Both projects will cost the Village $8,648.96. Mayor Eblin explains costs will be paid from the capital outlay appropriation in the Vilage's street fund.

"The Village is eager to work with Mr. Painter and Ohio Valley Outdoor Services in the resolution of ongoing issues adversely affect both Lynn and Weber neighborhood residents," comments Mayor Eblin.

The Mayor's Office will send letters to residents of Lynn Avenue, Lynn Street and Weber Street detailing the project and providing a timeline for informational and preparation purposes. These letters are expected to be mailed by the end of this week.