Public Ways Committee - November 9, 2026

The Wadsworth Public Ways Committee reviewed infrastructure projects and the proposed 2027 operations budget on November 9, 2026. Brickyard remediation and the civil access road were substantially complete, while trail construction at Brickyard Passive Park and the pond loop continued. The committee discussed delaying the park’s public opening until construction, trail conditions, signage, and state reimbursement requirements are clarified. The city reported that it may receive up to $1.5 million from NOACA funds for the Trolley Line–Brickyard connection, with no local match requested. Airport apron work was nearing completion; a CNS Consultants final-design phase for the next airport project is beginning, supported by an approved grant. A separate airport funding overview cited approximately $26,500 in anticipated state matching funds and $477,000 in federal FAA grant funding, including about $390,000 for AWAS construction.

The committee voted to forward an ordinance authorizing ODOT’s fine-grade, polymer asphalt overlay and smooth-seal work on US 224/I-76 to City Council; staff said the work is at ODOT’s expense and the city does not plan to add construction items. No contract awards or vendor selections were made. In the preliminary 2027 budget review, staff identified about $500,000 for the annual street improvement program, $680,000 for Quadral Drive construction, $400,000 for sidewalk maintenance and repairs plus an estimated $75,000 in potential CDBG sidewalk work, and $40,000 for additional design costs for the Rhymer Road roundabout, covered through ODOT loan funding. The transportation impact fund anticipates about $300,000 in revenue but no proposed 2027 expenses. Members also raised the need for a downtown public restroom; staff agreed it could be explored as a separate project, but no cost estimate or funding decision was available. The budget book was not yet final pending auditor review.