ARC Approves Funding For Monterey Water And Sewer Project

The Town of Monterey’s water and sewer line project off exit 300 received final approval from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC).

The commission requires a review by a consultant before funding a project with federal money. Monterey Grant Administrator Dawn Kupferer said the consultant approved the
construction plans, bidding procedures and budget.

“They have announced to the city and Mayor Wiggins that they can go ahead and go into construction on this project at 300,” Kupfere said. “This is very exciting news, because there has never been water or sewer around 300.”

Kupferer said the town may now enter into a contract with the bid winner, Ironwood Construction & Engineering. The next step is for a pre-construction conference with the contractor to be called by Mayor Bill Wiggins.

“There are some materials that have to be ordered, so we have to see where they are coming from,” Kupferer said. “If it is coming from Canada, there might be some problems. If it is coming from China, there could be issues there. Hopefully, the materials come from American factories.”

Ironwood Construction Inc. was the low bidder with a base bid of $453,000. Kupferer said additional paving on the shoulder of Highway 70 will be required. The city wants to add the paving to the current paving project.

The new sewer and water lines will stretch from South Holley Street to the city limits around Bee Rock Road.