The City of Lawton will be moving to its next round of residential street upgrades early next year, as city officials continue to expand repair and replacement opportunities through two tax programs.

MTZ Construction Inc., Lawton, submitted the low bid of $1,932,807 for the project that will rebuild four residential streets in north and central Lawton, or almost $91,000 less than the $2,023,806.77 engineering estimate. The concrete project has a 360-day timeline, city engineers said. Construction is expected to begin by mid-January and will include the road work itself, along with Americans With Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalks, and work associated with replacement of the road, to include driveways, waterlines, sewer lines and storm water drain lines.

City Engineer Joseph Painter said the projects on Carroll Drive, Southwest 26th Street, Cornell Avenue and Northwest 36th Street are project 1B of the multi-stage Phase 1 of the residential street projects being funded through the 2017 Ad Valorem Street Improvement Program. City residents approved that program in 2017, voting to keep the citys share of ad valorem taxes at 10.5 mills and dedicating the amount not needed to cover annual city debt toward a program that will upgrade residential streets and arterials. Council members were allocated about $2 million per ward for residential street work.

Painter said the work will accompany two other phases of residential streets already are under construction, and one new phase expected to be bid early next year.

Weve really had a lot of these coming forward fast, said Mayor Stan Booker, of programs now are possible because of ad valorem funding, as well as funding categories dedicated in the citys Capital Improvements Programs (CIPs), including the 2019 program.

Painter said a new round of road work will be advertised for bid through January, with potential award of that contract in February. He said advertising also will be done for two road repair projects that will benefit the west Lawton industrial park: Neal Boulevard and Ard Street. Neal Boulevard runs east and west, creating the intersection with Goodyear Boulevard in front of the Goodyear plant; Ard Street runs north and south, on the east side of Goodyear Boulevard.

This new round of residential street work includes almost 4,000 feet of concrete paving. Projects are:

Carroll Drive in north Lawton, 1,104 feet from Northwest 14th Street to Mobley Street.

Southwest 26th Street, 311 feet from West Gore Boulevard to Cornell Avenue; and Cornell Avenue, 579 feet from Southwest 26th to Southwest 27th streets. These projects were identified by residents as long-standing needs when contractors petitioned for zoning changes that allowed construction of a new Arvest Bank at Southwest 26th Street and West Gore Boulevard, and EZ GO on West Gore Boulevard at Southwest 27th Street. Residents were concerned about the potential effect on increased traffic from the expanded convenience store on already deteriorating streets.

Northwest 36th Street, 1,969 feet from 10 NW 36th to 40 NW 36th (between West Gore Boulevard and Northwest Arlington).

See more here:
City of Lawton prepping for new street projects in the new year - The Lawton Constitution

There are many benefits for having your driveway paved with stamped concrete. A stamped concrete driveway is fun, unique, and affordable!

Did you know that in America, 63% of homes have either a garage or a carport? This means that if youre part of this demographic, you most likely have a driveway as well.

If youre thinking of redoing your driveway, then youll want to consider a stamped concrete driveway. Not only does it look nice, but it also comes with a myriad of other benefits too!

Are you now interested in getting a stamped concrete driveway? Then youll want to keep reading. Here, well outline all the benefits you can get from one!

Well start the list off with one of the best benefits ofstamped concrete: its very affordable! In general, you can expect to pay around $8 to $12 per square foot for basic stamped concrete. If you want more intricate designs, the price can go up to $18 per square foot.

When you compare this to other materials like brick or flagstone, its just a fraction of what youd pay for them. So if you dont want boring basic concrete but cant afford to pay for flagstone, stamped concrete is definitely a nice alternative.

For all other materials (such as brick, wood, or flagstone), the contractors will have to lay them out. As a result, this drives up the price, as theres more detailed labor and time involved.

With stamped concrete, its poured out. Not only is this easier, but its also less time-consuming.

Not only that, but stamped concrete can actually be poured on top of existing concrete slabs. This means you can quickly upgrade the look of your driveway without having to tear it apart first. You can simply pour stamped concrete on top of your existing driveway for an almost-instant transformation.

When it comes to stamped concrete driveway ideas, the possibilities are almost limitless. As the name implies, the concrete is applied like a stamp, which means you can have it imitate a number of other materials out there. This means your driveway can be highly customized, down to its color, texture, pattern, and style.

For example, you can have your stamped concrete mimic other materials like cobblestone. That way, you can get the same look but at a fraction of the price. Its a win-win situation!

And you wont have to worry about it looking cheap either. The precision of installation for stamped concrete means you can get such flawless imitations of other more expensive driveway materials that no one would even know youve chosen stamped concrete in place of flagstone, for example.

When it comes to the things you choose for your house, you usually want to go with options that are low-maintenance. Otherwise, youll either be spending a lot of time and effort to do it yourself or paying someone to do it for you.

Whats great about stamped concrete is that its a low-maintenance choice. For instance, with pavers youll have a tougher time maintaining them because weeds grow through the stones and theyll also shift and crack.

But with stamped concrete, itll stay the same for years to come. You wont have to deal with constantly weeding the space in between stones.

Plus, all you need to do to keep it clean is to use water, detergent, and a stiff-bristled brush to clean it. Or you can choose to use a pressure washer from time to time.

Obviously, your driveway is located outdoors where itll be subject to all sorts of weathering. One of the big benefits youll get from a stamped concrete driveway is that its very weather-resistant.

In addition, your driveway will have to hold up your vehicle every time you drive in and out of your garage. You can trust a stamped concrete driveway to uphold its quality throughout the years.

Another benefit youll get from stamped concrete vs individual stones is that its safer for your family. As we mentioned earlier, over time, stones can become loose and cracked, and they might even settle into the ground. As a result, theyll present tripping hazards for both your family and any visitors you might have.

Because stamped concrete is 1 large piece of concrete, you wont have to be afraid of this happening. You can rest easy knowing that people on your property wont have to succumb to tripping hazards that might end in painful injuries.

As you can guess from the above benefits, a stamped concrete driveway can raise your homes resale value. This is because its appearance instantly raises the curb appeal.

The better the aesthetics of your home, the more buyers will want to pay for it. So by investing in a stamped concrete driveway, youll be getting a much better return on investment (ROI) in the future when you eventually sell your property.

As you can see, a stamped concrete driveway can provide you with various benefits. Not only does it look beautiful, but its also very affordable and will last quite some time.

Theres basically nothing to lose when you opt for a stamped concrete driveway. So if youre remodeling and are also redoing your driveway, then stamped concrete should be at the top of your list for considerations! Once you have it done, youll be wondering why you didnt choose it in the first place.

Did you enjoy this article on the modern stamped concrete driveway? Then browse the rest of our blog page for more like it!

Read the original post:
The Benefits of a Stamped Concrete Driveway - EndZoneScore

A SWOT Analysis ofPavers for Building Market, Professional Survey Report Including Top Most Global Players Analysis with CAGR and Stock Market Up and Down.

The globalPavers for Building market research reportfocuses on providing the audience with the microscopic data under a solitary report. The Pavers for Building market research provides all the information after an intricate analysis process. The report represents all the market revenue and growth details in a figurative and numerical format. The attractive and colorful data helps conquer more information. The current scientific report on thePavers for Building markethas been introduced onSyndicate Market Researchonly after a comprehensive analysis. The details of the Pavers for Building market on a global scale are mentioned using the major manufacturing competitors, economic profits, market growth rate, production and distribution value and volume, and market drivers.

The topological players provide insights on market growth and status:Brock International, NewLine Hardscapes, Fendt Builder, Acker-Stone, KloroTech, Anston, Angelus Block, Anchor Block Company, Systems Paving, Belgard, Bolduc, Borgert Products, Nicolock, Marshalls, KingS Material, Rosetta, Wienerberger, Pine Hall Brick, Belgard, Midwest Manufacturing, Carlson, Stonemarket, TriCircle.

CLICK HERE GET A COPY OF THE BEST COMPONENT OF THIS STUDY

The global Pavers for Building market research report mentioned on the Syndicate Market Research has information provided a detailed bifurcation based on product type, applications, top manufacturers, geographical players, and other segments.

Market segment based on product types:Asphalt, Concrete, Other

Market segments based on advanced uses by end-user:Driveways, Retaining Walls, Patios, Other

The additional geographical segments are also mentioned in the empirical report.

North America:U.S., Canada, Rest of North AmericaEurope:UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Rest of EuropeAsia Pacific:China, Japan, India, Southeast Asia, North Korea, South Korea, Rest of Asia PacificLatin America:Brazil, Argentina, Rest of Latin AmericaMiddle East and Africa:GCC Countries, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa

The production and distribution up-scales and downscales along with the market share can enlighten the readers with the overall market growth and development. The entire colossal of fine points scripted in the report provides the entire gist of the report that signifies the market expansion and sales volume or value.

Enquire Here Get customization & check report with TOC @:https://www.syndicatemarketresearch.com/market-analysis/pavers-for-building-market.html

The current theoretical information can help the clients and others get a taste of practical knowledge as well. The discussions regarding the global Pavers for Building market have been dominating the global market research for the past few years. The business players Brock International, NewLine Hardscapes, Fendt Builder, Acker-Stone, KloroTech, Anston, Angelus Block, Anchor Block Company, Systems Paving, Belgard, Bolduc, Borgert Products, Nicolock, Marshalls, KingS Material, Rosetta, Wienerberger, Pine Hall Brick, Belgard, Midwest Manufacturing, Carlson, Stonemarket, TriCircle have been using strategic policies and plans to fabricate their future market growth and development.

The previous market consensuses compared to the present have changed quite a lot and thus, studying the market details in the extant report can help capture the gist in a glimpse.

Chapter 1,Definition, Specifications and Classification of Pavers for Building , Applications of Pavers for Building , Market Segment by Regions;Chapter 2,Manufacturing Cost Structure, Raw Material and Suppliers, Manufacturing Process, Industry Chain Structure;Chapter 3,Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Pavers for Building , Capacity and Commercial Production Date, Manufacturing Plants Distribution, R&D Status and Technology Source, Raw Materials Sources Analysis;Chapter 4,Overall Market Analysis, Capacity Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Price Analysis (Company Segment);Chapter 5 and 6,Regional Market Analysis that includes United States, China, Europe, Japan, Korea & Taiwan, Pavers for Building Segment Market Analysis (by Type);Chapter 7 and 8,The Pavers for Building Segment Market Analysis (by Application) Major Manufacturers Analysis of Pavers for Building ;Chapter 9,Market Trend Analysis, Regional Market Trend, Market Trend by Product Type Asphalt, Concrete, Other, Market Trend by Application Driveways, Retaining Walls, Patios, Other;Chapter 10,Regional Marketing Type Analysis, International Trade Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis;Chapter 11,The Consumers Analysis of Global Pavers for Building ;Chapter 12,Pavers for Building Research Findings and Conclusion, Appendix, methodology and data source;Chapter 13, 14 and 15,Pavers for Building sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source.

Ask Queries/Buy Report Directly by Contacting Us@sales@syndicatemarketresearch.com

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Global Pavers for Building Market to 2026 Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis, and Forecast - The Courier

Gravel paver market was valued US$ XX Bn in 2019 and the total revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.0% from 2019 to 2027, reaching US$ XX Bn.

This is a comprehensive international report targeted on present and future prospects of the Gravel paver market. This report presents a consolidation of primary and secondary analysis that provides market size, share, dynamics and forecast for numerous segments and sub-segments considering the macro and small environment factors. The report also covers an in-depth analysis of COVID 19 pandemic impact on the sales revenue of Gravel paver market by year-wise and region and on the key players revenue affected till July 2020 and expected short term and long-term impact on the market.

Gravel paver market Overview:

Gravel paver is a structure that provides protection for heavy load bearing and gravel containment to create a porous surface for unrestricted traffic volume and/or parking length. The machine can be used for rainwater filtration and storage. It also allows driving on a gravel surface, parking, biking, or walking. These pavers are cheaper and reduce the need for landscape irrigation schemes than conventional hard scaping. The alternative to conventional paving practices is known to be gravel pavers. This paver solutions provide a solid surface that protects heavy vehicles while allowing the surface to be penetrated by water, reducing runoff. They also offer an alternative to conventional asphalt or concrete that is sustainable and appealing.

Gravel paver market Dynamics

Service routes, bike paths, golf cart roads, private driveways, parking lots, fire lanes, street shoulders, soil stabilization of building entry, truck & cart wash-down zones, overflow parking lots, repair of vehicles and vehicle yards, and for erosion control on slopes and in swales are the primary application of gravel pavers.

The capacity of the gravel paver to provide optimum strength and reliability for the system to support heavy vehicles such as fire trucks over the projected period is expected to be a significant driver of the growth of the gravel paver industry. In addition, in small places, it can also be used. Simple installation has contributed to increased gravel paver production. It is further anticipated that increasing demand among consumers in green building materials for residential, non-residential and non-building applications would stimulate market growth over the forecast period. These pavers are mounted in rigid panels for better attachment, quicker installation, and also provide the system with superior stability and longevity. In the coming years, this factor is anticipated to raise the consumer demand for gravel pavers.

Interconnected paver systems provide concentrated rutting and outstanding resistance to loading stresses that further affect their application for parking, access lanes, shoulders and walkways in daily traffic. In exchange, this is projected over the forecast period to increase the demand for the gravel paver market. In addition, these pavers are suitable for storing and handling storm water on site and for the application of raw materials for green infrastructure (GI) or low impact construction (LID) design. Gravel pavers are simple on the budget as it is known to be the most economical surface material available, easy to maintain, and its rapid implementation would further impact the growth of the gravel paver market over the forecast period. In pre-assembled rolls, various gravel pavers are accessible and also have a connection locking mechanism that further reduces the installation time.

Interlocking paving helps water and beneficial bacteria, live between the gravel and stones, to be drained. In addition, these pavers are sturdy, resilient, versatile, and can be preserved at a limited cost. Over the projected era, these trends are also expected to impact the development of the gravel paver industry.

The objective of the report is to present a comprehensive analysis of the Gravel paver market including all the stakeholders of the industry. The past and current status of the industry with forecasted market size and trends are presented in the report with the analysis of complicated data in simple language. The report covers all the aspects of the industry with a dedicated study of key players that includes market leaders, followers and new entrants. PORTER, SVOR, PESTEL analysis with the potential impact of micro-economic factors of the market have been presented in the report. External as well as internal factors that are supposed to affect the business positively or negatively have been analyzed, which will give a clear futuristic view of the industry to the decision-makers.The report also helps in understanding Gravel paver market dynamics, structure by analyzing the market segments and project of the Gravel paver market size. Clear representation of competitive analysis of key players By Type, Price, Financial position, Product portfolio, Growth strategies, and Regional Presence in the Gravel paver market make the report investors guide.

Gravel paver market Request For View Sample Report Page:@https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/78808

Scope of Gravel paver market

Gravel paver market, By Type

Small-sized paving width Medium-sized paving width Large-sized paving widthGravel paver market, By Application

Highways Urban Roads OthersGravel paver market, By Region

North America Europe Asia-Pacific MEA & Africa Latin AmericaGravel paver market Key Players

Koki Holdings Co., Ltd. Vogele VOLVO Dynapack STEngineering Bomag CAT Ammann XCMG SUMITOMO SANY ZOOMLION SCMC HANTA Tsun Greatwall Fayat Wirtgen Group Jiangsu huatong

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Maximize Market Research provides B2B and B2C market research on 20,000 high growth emerging technologies & opportunities in Chemical, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Electronics & Communications, Internet of Things, Food and Beverages, Aerospace and Defense and other manufacturing sectors.

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Gravel Paver Market : Industry Analysis and forecast 2027: Type, Application, and Region. - LionLowdown

This all started about three months ago when I was driving with my wife west along SkymarkAvenue in Mississauga when she stopped telling me how much she loved and admired me and started yelling, Stop! Stop!

As Im an eyes-on-the-road-all-the-time kind of driver, I yelled back: Stop where? And she said, Over there! Theres a huge bird over there.

So I turned left into a driveway and stopped. Where? I asked her, ever so calmly.

There, she said, pointing at this yes big bird that was standing on a patch of grass in the middle of a stretch of pavement that connected several industrial-style buildings.

The bird looked like a turkey. Wanting a closer look, we got out of our vehicle I was testing a Mercedes-Benz G 63 SUV at the time and approached it, slowly.

There was another guy there, taking pictures of the bird, which was just standing and looking around. Before my wife asked, the fellow said, Yes, hes a turkey-turkey, as distinct from a chicken or a goose.

Lets leave him alone, I said. I dont want to upset him. Hes probably escaped from a processing plant around here, or something. Lets let him enjoy his freedom.

The fellow taking the pictures agreed. He cant fly, so he wont get far. Somebody will probably come and pick him up.

As we left, my wife said, I think Ill call him Jack. That way, the next time I see him, I wont say, Stop, theres a huge bird over there, Ill just say, Theres Jack, and youll know what I mean.

My wife likes to name the birds and animalswe come across. For years, we would see a German Shepherd guarding a junkyard near Mavis Rd. and Central Parkway in Mississauga. He was a real junkyard dog, so she called him Bubba. On a highway near Sutton, a donkey is often in a field and she calls him Don Kay. Shell say, on days when its really cold, Don Kay is out today without a coat. Ill have to speak to his owners. And Ill say, Yeah, okay.

A few days after we first met Jack the Turkey, we were driving along the same road my wifes work is in the area and here he was again, but this time he was out in the middle of the street, acting very menacingly toward cars. Pecking at them.

But he didnt look like our Jack. His neck was longer, he wasnt as heavy in the middle and he looked more sleek a little bit like a Canada Goose but not, if you get my drift. I told my wife he looked like a wild turkey. Im not an expert, but he looked like the label on a bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon, of which I do have knowledge, although not recently.

Whatever, we didnt want him to get hurt, or worse, so we called Animal Services, who said there wasnt really anything they could do. We could send somebody out to shoo it off the road, but thats about all, the woman said. It probably has a mate and they could have a nest in the area, she added, before hanging up.

Two days later, we saw it again. Except, there were two this time. One was eating in the boulevard and the other was out on the road, playing chicken with the traffic. Its Desi and Lucy, exclaimed my bird-naming wife. Just like Animal Services said.

But that was the one and only time we saw them together. I saw Desi I mean, Ithinkit was Desie a bunch of times after that: on the road, even in parking lots, peck, peck, pecking away at cars. And then, around the first of December, he disappeared. I feared the worst.

You can imagine how I felt the other day, then, when I read the following story in the Mississauga News, datelined Dec. 31, which was New Years Eve:

Watch out for Tom today, hes in a fowl mood, wrote reporter Alexandra Heck.

Peel police are fielding complaints about an angry turkey blocking traffic near Matheson Boulevard and Explorer Drive in Mississauga (which is in the neighborhood where weve been seeing it).

Officers say the bird was pecking at cars and asked drivers to proceed with caution through the area.

Police attended the scene along with Animal Services, but the bird managed to escape.

Our feathered friend evaded capture with its impressive 40 km/h speed, police tweeted.

Thats right: 40 km/h. Thats on foot. Wild turkeys can fly as fast as 50 km/h, if they feel threatened.

And speaking of feeling threatened. Desi is likely seeing his reflection in the paint on those cars and thinks hes fighting off an enemy intruding in his territory.

Whos maybe also thinking of taking a crack at Lucy, too.

Norris McDonald is a retired Toronto Star editor who continues to write for Wheels under contract

More here:
Wild Turkeys Playing Chicken with the Traffic in Mississauga - Wheels.ca

The market for performance and luxury cars is changing. Electric vehicles such as the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S are making a play for buyers' dollars and enthusiasts' hearts with old-fashioned luxury and exhilarating acceleration enabled by electric motors and big batteries. The time will come when an electric car wins Motor Authority's Best Car To Buy award. That time was almost this year, but in the end traditional performance won out.

Some of our editors thought the redesigned mid-engine Corvette was a shoo-in for this years award, but Editorial Director Marty Padgett challenged us to expand our definition of performance for the EV evolution underway. In this case, the Ford Mustang Mach-E provided the challenge. It may take on the form of a crossover SUV, but the Mustang name is more than just a marketing ploy. The Mach-E is quick and agile, and genuinely fun to drive.

But the Corvette is more fun to drive by a wide margin, and its an outstanding value. Until the Mustang Mach-E comes with grippy summer tires, dinner-plate brakes, and track-ready cooling, it wont be able to win this award. That could come as early as this year with the arrival of the 580-horsepower GT model.

The Corvette offers all those traits, plus a sonorous V-8. Most importantly, its the kind of car we want to own and drive. And the way it drives is what earned the Corvette the Best Car To Buy 2021 award.

Corvette engineers advocated for the change to the mid-engine layout to eke out the last bits of performance to make the Corvette as capable as European sports cars that cost three times as much. That required a Herculean engineering and tuning effort to create a well balanced and engaging car, and the Corvette team was up to the task.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette media drive, Spring Mountain Motor Resort & Country Club, February 2020

2020 Chevrolet Corvette media drive, Spring Mountain Motor Resort & Country Club, February 2020

2020 Chevrolet Corvette media drive, Spring Mountain Motor Resort & Country Club, February 2020

Its one of those cars that almost reads your mind when you drive it, Motor Authority contributor Brian Wong said after a drive. If I wanted the nose to dive in, it would. If I wanted to hang on the power and get it to move around a little in the back, it would.

I experienced those traits in my first drive of the Corvette at Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch in Pahrump, Nevada. The car turned in with immediacy and rotated willingly. The rear end was stable, and it needed to be coaxed to lose grip. Once there, however, it was easy to control and I could use the rear end to steer the car. A ride with an especially enthusiastic engineer revealed the C8 can be steered around a track almost exclusively with its rear wheels.

The new layout gives the Corvette better sight lines. The driver sits farther forward with a better view over the hood, which makes it easier to place the car on a track. The seat placement is closer to the cars center of mass, too, which Wong noted when he said, It felt like it had a pole in the middle of it and it was just turning around it.

Interactive Content Manager Joel Feder compared the new Corvette to a beloved Ferrari and the best Corvette of the last generation, the ZR1, which won our Best Car To Buy 2019 award. This cars steering is so much more precise. Its turn-in is so much quicker. Frankly, it reminds me a lot of the 488 Spider and that car was like $300,000. And its going to be 10 times more reliable.

The biggest advantage of the mid-engine layout is rear-wheel traction. With its 40/60 front/rear weight balance, the Corvettes massive 305s grab the pavement far more efficiently than the C7 Corvette with its 50/50 weight balance. The increased weight over the rear wheels helps the new 495-hp Corvette launch from 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds, which is a virtual match for the 755-hp C7 ZR1.

Wong thought the change in form factor improved the balance. Im a fan of mid-engine cars in general, he said. I think everything should be mid-engine if its going to be a sports car.

Based on how well the new Corvette drives and accelerates, he appears to be on to something.

Our editors were split about the new design, but we agreed that the car draws fans attention.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette convertible

2020 Chevrolet Corvette convertible

2020 Chevrolet Corvette convertible

2020 Chevrolet Corvette convertible

The C8 will make kids mouths drop open, grown adults stare, and people ask all sorts of questions. Many dont even realize its a Corvette, Feder said.

Senior Editor Robert Duffer drew attention from a different crowd during a road trip in the Corvette. At a truckstop, truckers stopped their rigs to admire and ask questions, on the road passing windows were filled with thumbs up and smartphone pix, and even in my driveway, a grandma let a toddler run his hand over the wheel arches, Duffer said.

We all like elements of the design, but we also find fault with some aspects. The nose reflects traditional Corvette cues, and the cab-forward design and large side intakes make it look like a Ferrari. The European supercar wedge married with classic Corvette cues commands and keeps attention, Duffer quipped.

Feder and Padgett took issue with the rear end. Feder called it a hot mess and Padgett felt the rear looked like it was designed by somebody entirely different, like they were telecommuting and they didnt match up until the last minute.

Contributor Brian Wong pointed out an aspect of the car we can all appreciate. I love the theater of the Corvette, he said. When you lift up the back and you see the engine and all the carbon fiber sitting there. Thats something you dont get with the old Corvette.

We also had mixed feelings about the interior. Most of us felt the materials are improved and the Corvette has a cabin worthy of its $60,000-plus asking price. This might be the best screwed together vehicle GMs ever made, Feder noted. Nothing squeaks, rattles, and it just feels solid.

Padgett wasnt impressed with the quality or the design, though, saying the interior has too many buttonsperhaps the extra buttons Porsche no longer uses in the Cayenneand the line of climate controls on the angled bar between the passengers is ill-conceived.

Some didnt mind the bar. I got used to the band of climate controls after I spent enough time in it, where I didnt even have to look and I could do my thumb press, said Duffer. Feder agreed, but Wong said he didnt get used to the climate control placements. I said the bar is unattractive in my first drive review. I also expect passengers will grab the bar and turn the heat up to full when rowdy drivers try to impress them with high-speed antics.

Feder also liked the squared off steering wheel, pointing out that it encourages a proper 9 and 3 oclock hand placement and it provides a good view of the digital gauge cluster behind it.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette convertible

2020 Chevrolet Corvette convertible

2020 Chevrolet Corvette

Feder liked the base GT1 seats, but I felt the GT2s were too lumpy while Duffer said they had all-day comfort for his long trip.

Our bottom line goes back to how the Corvette drives. It makes us want to drive it, which is the mission of a sports car.

When I think back to all the cars I drove this year, that is the one I will remember the most. I had the most fun with it. I went out and drove it every single day, said Wong.

Duffer felt the new Corvette captures the essence of the sports car. You make excuses to go out and drive it. Its a great place to be, he said. It gives you all the thrills you want out of a car.

Feder pointed out the Corvettes obvious value. Its a lot of performance car for not a lot of money, he said. Its astounding what they did with the change to the mid-engine design.

The combination of driver engagement, the ability to put the power to the pavement, world-class track capability, and value are the clear reasons the C8 Corvette claimed the title of Motor Authoritys Best Car To Buy 2021.

Perhaps the Mustang Mach-E GT will deliver an electric version of those strengths in the coming year. Heres hoping.

Continued here:
Best Car To Buy 2021: How we named the Chevrolet Corvette our winner - Motor Authority

December 31, 2020

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) will be holding a pre-recorded Design Public Hearing for the proposed Rehabilitation of Boston Road Project online at:

https://www.mass.gov/massdot-highway-design-public-hearings

The recording will be available for viewing on Monday, January 4, 2021. The purpose of this hearing is to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed project. All views and comments made as a part of the hearing process will be reviewed and considered to the maximum extent possible. Comments received by January 14, 2021 will be prioritized for inclusion in the design, but late feedback will still be incorporated where possible.

Residents who require assistance accessing this online material, or the internet, may schedule a browsing appointment at the J.V. Fletcher Library, Monday through Friday, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Please contact the library directly at 978-692-5555.

The proposed project consists of constructing improvements along Boston Road from Main Street to the I-495 SB Off-Ramp. The improvements include redefining the cross-section to include a 5-foot bicycle lane and an 11-foot travel lane in each direction through the project limits. The improvements also include construction of sidewalks with vertical granite curbing along the easterly side of Boston Road, and along the westerly side of Boston Road from Blakes Hill Road to the I-495 SB ramps; construction of ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps at corridor intersections; modifying traffic signal timings/phasing/infrastructure at three Boston Road intersections including the I-495 SB ramps, I-495 NB ramps, and Route 110; reconstruction of the existing storm drain infrastructure; water line replacement; construction of retaining walls; full depth pavement reclaim throughout the corridor; new pavement markings and signs; and accessible pedestrian signals.

Project plans and the Design Public Hearing Handout are available online at:

The handout provides additional project information as well as a comment sheet that may be submitted directly to MassDOT.

For more information, please contact:

Paul Starratt, P.E.

Town Engineer

Town of Westford

28 North Street

Westford, MA 01886

Ph: 978-399-2716

Cell: 978-360-0498

Fx: 978-399-2739

Additional Info...

This press release was produced by the Town of Westford. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Original post:
Boston Road Design Public Hearing In Westford Town - Patch.com

Staff reports| Herald Democrat

The Texas Department of Transportation is back working on Texoma roads this week. At the end of the year, the department released a list of planned road projects expected to impact area drivers.

While the schedules for the projects are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues, the announcement is to let drivers and pedestrians know where work crews may be during the week of Jan. 4-8.

"Motoristsare advised toremain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones," the release said. "They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems."

The following projects are scheduled for this week.

The annual contract to perform crack sealing operations in Grayson County is in progress. Daytime lane closures will be present during crack sealing operations and drivers should expect delays. The following roadways in Grayson County will be crack sealed this year; Business US 377D in Tioga, Business US 377C in Collinsville, SH 289 from the Collin County line to US 82, FM 996 from FM 120 to FM 1417, SH 91 from US 75 to FM 1310, the US 82 frontage road in Sherman, FM 120 from FM 1753 to the Oklahoma State line, FM 1897 from US 69 to the end of State maintenance, FM 898 from SH 11 to the Fannin County line, FM 121 from FM 3356 to SH 289, FM 120 in Pottsboro from Chrissa Drive to Vine Street, and the US 75 frontage roads from FM 902 to the Collin County line.

US 75, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on northbound and southbound US 75 between Center Street and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes and the new South Travis Street Bridge. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91 as crews work on building detours and installing drainage structures. The northbound exit ramp for Houston and Lamar Streets (SH 56) is currently closed, and exiting traffic is requested to use the Park Avenue exit ramp. The northbound exit ramp for Pecan Street and Washington Street is currently closed, and exiting traffic is requested to use the next exit ramp for North Travis Street. The southbound exit ramp for Park Avenue is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Houston/Lamar Street (SH 56) exit. The southbound Washington Street exit ramp is currently closed, and exiting traffic is requested to use the North Travis Street exit. The northbound frontage road from South Travis Street to near Park Avenue is closed for crews to work on building the remaining portion of the retaining wall along US 75 at the South Travis Street intersection. Traffic is requested to use the US 75 mainlanes during this closure. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.

During the week of Jan. 4 through 9, the Houston Street intersection at US 75 will be closed to through traffic in order for crews to perform pavement improvements in the left lane of the northbound and southbound frontage roads. Traffic on Houston Street will be able to make a right turn only onto the frontage road and will detour to the next intersection. This same process will occur for the Washington Street and Lamar Street intersections. This work is weather dependent and may be adjusted due to unfavorable weather.

The US 75 pedestrian bridge near Pecan Street in Sherman is closed to pedestrian traffic. The east side over the frontage road has been removed. The remaining pedestrian bridge will be removed at a later time. Pedestrians wishing to cross US 75 are advised to cross at the Houston Street signalized intersection.

FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews are working to construct a portion of the new Sand Creek bridge and the approaches to the bridge. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews perform utility work. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project.

FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to build portions of the new bridges and roadway. Watch for lane shifts and narrow lanes throughout the project as crews have moved traffic to the temporary detour section. The ultimate roadway will be a five-lane section consisting of concrete pavement when the project is completed.

US 377, Grayson County: Willis Bridge at the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional lane closures on the existing bridge as workers pour concrete for the new bridge structure.

US 75 Ramp Reversal in Denison, Grayson County: on the southbound US 75 main lanes and frontage road between Spur 503 and FM 691. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures on the southbound US 75 frontage road while construction crews work on completing the remainder of the project. The new FM 691 exit ramp is open to access FM 691. The new entrance ramp to southbound US 75 has been opened to traffic.

US 377, Grayson County: from US 82 to FM 901. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.

US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Monday and Thursday during the daytime.

US 82 & US 69, Grayson County: from FM 131 to FM 1897 on US 82, and from SH 56 to US 75 on US 69. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.

FM 697, Grayson County: between FM 2729 and US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.

FM 1753, Grayson and Fannin County: from FM 1897 to SH 78. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

The annual contract to perform crack sealing operations in Fannin County is in progress. Daytime lane closures will be present during crack sealing operations and drivers should expect delays. The following roadways in Fannin County will be crack sealed this year; FM 1396 from SH 78 to FM 2029, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 1753, US 82 from SH 121 to the Grayson County line, SH 11 from SH 121 to SH 78, SH 78 from SH 11 to US 69, and FM 68 from SH 78 to SH 34.

FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

FM 1743, Fannin County: from SH 56 to FM 1550. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.

US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow moving construction equipment as crews work on widening US 82 from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided roadway. Westbound US 82 traffic has been shifted to the new pavement on the eastern end of the project between the Fannin-Lamar County line and County Road 2975. Eastbound traffic will remain in its current lane, while crews work on the inside lane to build crossovers and turn lanes. Drivers who frequent this roadway are advised that all driveways, county roads and farm-to-market roads approaching the new westbound main lanes on US 82 will have a full stop before crossing over to the median. The on-ramp to westbound US 82 from SH 78 has been closed while crews work on building the new westbound main lanes. The westbound exit ramp for SH 121 is closed as crews work on building the new main lanes in this area. Exiting traffic for SH 121 is asked to use the SH 78 exit and continue along the frontage road to SH 121.

Weather permitting, on Jan. 7, westbound US 82 traffic will be moved to the new travel lanes between County Road 2975 and SH 121. Eastbound traffic will remain in its current lane, while construction crews begin work on the inside lane, building the crossovers and left turn lanes. Drivers who frequent this roadway are advised that all driveways, county roads and farm-to-market roads approaching the new westbound main lanes on US 82 will have a full stop before crossing over to the median.

SH 56, Fannin County: between FM 897 and FM 1396. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling on the roadway.

Original post:
Crack sealing operations to continue in GC; other road projects - Sherman Denison Herald Democrat

A SHOCKED mum warned motorists to drive slowly and safely after a car skidded past her children along an icy Cheney Manor road.

Emma Kay captured on camera the moment a driverlost control of his car which then swivelled round into the other lane and hit the pavement before stopping on the grass above the kerb.

A bit of the bumper came off in the collision on Vicarage Road earlier today.

Emma's young children were playing in the front garden while this happened and were upset by what they saw.

She is urging drivers to slow down and be careful when coming round the bend.

Emma added: "I was really angry as he hit the pavement, it could have been so much worse if a dogwalker was there.

"I shoutedbut he ignored me.

"My childrenwere both frightened, especially my little girl, but my little boy was very concerned for the driver, bless him, and hopes he wasn't too frightened.

"Don't approach it at speed, drive with caution, only too often the traffic is backed up and they come round so quickly and hit the brakes.

"Its such a fast, dangerous road but it shouldn't be."

This is not the first time there has been an issue on the road.

Emma added: "I had a road traffic accident when they were babies. I was pulling into my driveway and a man came round the bend at speed and wrote my car off as he mounted the pavement and took my nearside out."

See more here:
VIDEO: Mum shocked as driver skids on icy street while her children play - Swindon Advertiser

January 2, 2021

If it feels like you just got done shoveling, you're in good company. Our end of December snowstorm brought some beautiful white fluff, but it was a heavy fluff. Thanks to our residents for taking care of business and clearing those walks.

To ensure the safety of neighbors, dog-walkers, and those who require sidewalk access, snow should be cleared within 24-hours of a one-inch or greater snowfall, or after any accumulation of ice has ended. Doing so helps protect the many pedestrians who use sidewalks daily in Iowa City.

Those who do not remove snow and ice could face a fine, and that's no way to start the new year

Sidewalk policy

Property owners are responsible for the ice and snow removal from all sidewalks that abut their private property.

The entire width of the sidewalk must be cleared down to concrete. Renters should check their leases to see if their landlord has transferred the responsibility of snow and ice removal to them.

Clearing curb ramps and crosswalks

Be a good neighbor and keep curb ramps clear. Snow and ice-free curb ramps are needed to keep sidewalks accessible to everyone, especially for those with limited mobility.

Snow and ice that is shoveled or that accumulates in crosswalks makes it difficult and dangerous for many of our residents, especially those with limited mobility, or children on their way to and from school. When you get to the end of your sidewalk, please shovel a few extra feet to clear the crosswalks and curb ramps if you are able.

Reporting snowy or icy sidewalks

Those who wish to report a property where the adjacent public sidewalk has not been cleared can contact the City of Iowa City:

Download the free ICGovXpress mobile app for your smartphone or tablet.

Complaints must be specific and include an address for staff to respond. Residents can view a digital map of properties that are being investigated by staff due to complaints from the public.

Salt/Sand mix available for residents

The City provides a limited amount of salt/sand mix that is available at no charge to the public at the Streets Division parking lot, located off of South Gilbert Street in the parking lot at 3901 Napoleon Lane. Iowa City residents should provide their own 5 gallon bucket and shovel to obtain this mix, which is intended for local residential sidewalks, and not for commercial or contractor use.

Penalties

If a complaint is received about an uncleared property, an inspector will visit the address to verify the violation, and leave a notification tag at the property. A Notice of Violation will also be mailed to the property owner and an additional 24 hours will be given to clear the pavement. If not completed by the deadline, the City will hire a private contractor to shovel, and the property owner will be billed those costs plus a $100 administrative fee. Only one notification will be given per snow season. Subsequent violations at the property will be cleared without further notification.

For more information, contact Stan Laverman at 319-356-5135 or stan-laverman@iowa-city.org.

This press release was produced by the City of Iowa City. The views expressed here are the author's own.

More:
Iowa City Reminds Residents That Sidewalks Should Be Cleared Within 24 Hours Of Snowfall - Patch.com