A proposed $1.5 million capital ordinance would fund the repaving of eight township roads.
By: Purvi Desai
Eight township roads will be repaved this year, if a $1.5 million capital ordinance is passed at the April 24 Township Committee meeting.
The ordinance introduced March 27 allocates the money for capital improvements as part of the township’s infrastructure improvement plan, and includes complete street paving on some major roadways and some neighborhoods, and a developer contribution earmarked for railroad quiet zone construction.
The capital ordinance totals $1,514,845, includes $530,000 in developer contributions, $825,000 in funds from the 2007 budget, and $160,000 in grants, according to a township press release.
"Major funding is also allocated for municipal building security, environmental work at the Weston landfill, sidewalk replacements, and the purchase of several pieces of road and parks maintenance equipment," said Committeeman Bob Wagner, liaison to the Capital Planning Committee. "All without going into debt for the fifth year in a row."
Deputy Mayor Lisa Nisivoccia, a member of the Finance Committee, said the 2007 municipal budget allocates $825,000 for the capital projects, "which is the largest such appropriation for capital in the last few years."
The capital projects include safety improvements at the Mill Lane curve and repaving Wertsville, Triangle and Farm roads, Winding Way, Stage Coach Drive, O’Connor Drive, Carriage Way, and Spring Valley Drive.
"The main reason for that larger appropriation is our recognition that there are many, many capital infrastructure needs from road paving in our neighborhoods, to equipment replacements, to environmental cleanup needs," she said.
Other improvements include a $50,000 sidewalk replacement, a $72,000 Weston Road landfill, a $60,000 upgrade to the municipal complex security system, replacing a 1977 John Deere rubber tire loader, valued at $150,000, and a $55,450 Toro Groundmaster mower and trailer.
The ordinance also allocates $250,000 for improvements on railroad crossings designated as quiet zones.
"Our expectation is that the infrastructure improvements needed to establish railroad quiet zones will begin later this year, therefore it is important to allocate the developer contribution in this ordinance," Mayor Anthony Ferrera said.
Mr. Wagner thanked the Capital Planning Committee, the Planning Board and municipal department heads for their help preparing the capital budget.
"The projects are important to Hillsborough residents," he said. "We are going to make improvements to two major roadways."
The capital ordinance introduction was passed by four votes, with Committeeman Paul Drake abstaining. The second reading and public hearing will be held at 7:30 p.m. April 24 in the municipal complex.