Hill Circle paving, sidewalk project to commence

DACULA An asphalt replacement, paving and sidewalk project on Hill Circle was awarded to Allied Paving Contractors during Thursdays Dacula City Council meeting, following extensive discussion about the original scope of work and a change order.

The original scope of work included paving from Hill Circle to South Street, sidewalk and stormwater improvements, at a bid price of $192,315. A change order, which reflects an expanded scope of work, was also awarded to Allied Paving Contractors on Thursday. The expanded project includes replacement of all sidewalks, curb and gutter and driveway aprons within the right of way along Hill Circle. The bid price for the change order is $180,273, bringing the total cost of the project to $372,588.

Councilwoman Sue Robinson initially objected to approving a bid for the original scope of work and, in the same council meeting, approving a change order for the Hill Circle project. Robinson asked city administrator Jim Osborn why the change order was not sent out to bidders other than Allied Paving Contractors. Osborn said that the bid was awarded based on unit prices, and therefore Allied Paving Contractors would still be the lowest bidder, considering that criteria.

The entire project will be funded by a Community Development Block Grant, federal funds granted to municipalities for such projects. The total amount of the CDBG awarded to Dacula is $469,779. Osborn said that, even with the expanded project scope, there will still be $97,000 in unused funds from the grant. CDBGs are typically awarded for specific projects.

If any additional change orders for the Hill Circle project are required, they must be funded using SPLOST funds, according to Osborn, as only one change order is allowed for each CDBG project.

Once council members questions about funding and the bid process were answered, the vote approving both bid awards was unanimous.

Special-use permit for church granted

Pastor Samuel James addressed Mayor Jimmy Wilbanks and the council on Thursday, speaking in favor of his request to locate his 20-member church in a multi-use retail center at 2559 Pharr Road. According to James, the Light of Truth Church will use the space two to three times a week, on Wednesday evenings and on Sundays, late morning to mid-afternoon.

We hope to get the word out and add a second Sunday service, from 4 to 6 p.m., James said. We want to be a positive influence in the community.

The citys planning commission recommended granting the special-use permit, with six conditions governing appearance and signage (such as banners) at the location. Council members voted unanimously in agreement.

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Hill Circle paving, sidewalk project to commence