On May 3, Puslinch council approved changes to the 2017 capital budget to approve $191,000 for the repaving of Forestell Road between Sideroad 10 North and Wellington Rd. 32.
A report to council stated he money comes from surplus funds derived from previously approved 2017 capital projects.
Councillor Ken Roth asked for specifics.
Director of public works and parks Don Creed explained the savings came as a result of aggressive pricing received from original roads contracts.
Those savings could be because of a nearby asphalt plant, or timing. In addition, the contractors are already in the area, he added.
Creed said he anticipates costs will be higher if the project is deferred.
His report stated the general maintenance strategy for hardtop roads finished with a single lift of asphalt is to complete resurfacing after approximately 15 to 20 years.
This section of Forestell Road was completed in 1999.
The township’s 2017 annual road rehabilitation contract is in close proximity to this section of the road, which results in significant cost savings for the township.
He noted asphalt prices have not been this low since the early 1990s.
Councillor Matthew Bulmer stated his view was that the township would earn less money sitting on the savings – knowing the price will likely increase in the future.
Mayor Dennis Lever indicated he appreciated that staff found a good use for the savings.
