Cookeville Seeking Answers From TDOT On Washington Paving Delays

Cookeville city officials are seeking answers from TDOT as to why North Washington Avenue hasn’t been repaved.

Mayor Ricky Shelton said he has received complaints from citizens regarding the rough nature of North Washington after city employees replaced waterlines ahead of the proposed project.

“Our water department wanted to be proactive and go in and replace the waterlines all along Washington Avenue,” Shelton said, “so as not to have a fresh paved road then have to dig it up for water leaks.”

City officials discussed the project during Monday’s work session. Waterline updates were done based on TDOT’s original timeline of bidding the project in May and paving the road in June.

However, according to Water and Sewer Department Director Ronnie Kelly Monday, TDOT rejected the original bids and rebid the project, delaying paving until September.

Shelton said he understands the frustrations of citizens who have complained about the roadway.

“It’s aggravating to drive that road. I drive it twice a day myself. It’s embarrassing,” Shelton said. “I have asked for answers from TDOT on why it was delayed first of all, and then second of all, what we can do to expedite the process of getting that road paved and back into a condition that we all want to be able to drive on.”

Cookeville City Council will consider a motion Thursday allowing Shelton to execute a contract amendment with TDOT. The amendment allows the city to continue with water utility adjustments along North Washington Avenue while they await TDOT to find a new paving contractor.

Shelton said he hopes to receive word from TDOT on how the amendment will impact the project and the city before making a decision on the contract.

“I’m still trying to garner knowledge on that before the meeting on Thursday so we know what to do,” Shelton said. “I know people are frustrated. I’m frustrated and I have to drive it twice a day. I try to avoid the street now because of it. It’s just gone on too long. We need some answers and some relief.”

Washington Avenue is part of State Route 136 and is maintained by TDOT with assistance from the City of Cookeville.

Shelton asked City Manager James Mills Monday to request an official statement from TDOT regarding the paving delays. Shelton said he had not received that information as of Wednesday morning.