Even as city crews complete the resurfacing of more than 20 road sections this summer, officials are already planning the next construction season.

Streets most in need of resurfacing will be given priority throughout the project, a ten-year program that began this summer. Grading assessments are set to continue throughout this duration, however, and will allow officials to remain up-to-date on changing road health.

“We usually … go down the list, and the ones that have the worst amount of score [are] the ones we’re looking at paving next year,” Ben Borton, Vandalia’s director of public service, said. “That’s what we did this year, and that’s what we’re getting ready right now … because we get better pricing [and] we can bid it as soon as possible.”

Borton reported only success from the city’s latest contractor partnership. And, with expected inflation costs already built into the resurfacing project’s budget, he conveyed a grounded hope in continuing this year’s pattern of accomplishment.

In addition to the 20 scheduled street surfacings, crews completed one section of Poplar Creek and a portion of Webster Street, which had been on the county’s worklist.

“All in all, the project went very well,” Borton said.

His only hope for the future is that residents would remember the work crews put in as they drive.

Emphasizing his desire for his workers’ safety, Borton called for locals’ continued patience and care. From keeping a cool head to driving a little more slowly in construction zones, Borton noted how even small behavior changes can have a major impact on safety.

“We’d like to see everyone go home in one piece,” he said. “Please remain calm and try and give them as much courtesy as you can.”

For further updates on the 2024–2033 resurfacing plan, please visit https://www.vandaliaohio.org/509/Ten-Year-Resurfacing-Plan.