Gainesville council sees savings on Balus Creek project

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville City Council Thursday learned that they're getting a bargain on a big sewer project off Mundy Mill Road.

The low bids are in on the proposed Balus Creek sewer plant project to serve retail and residential growth in the Mundy Mill area.

The total $6 million bid from two contractors is $2 million less than expected, according to Public Utilities Director Kelly Randall.

The council also got a review from Planning Director Rusty Ligon on annexing several county property islands within the city, with annexation hearings set for November and a final council vote scheduled for mid-December.

CHEAPER BY THE DRINK

A revision in Gainesville's alcohol beverage ordinance is on City Council's approval for cheaper drinks during 'Happy Hour'.

Council members heard from City Marshal Debbie Jones, who said vendors could sell single drinks for less between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m.

Brown said all other rules governing 'Happy Hour' remain in place; restaurants with bars are still barred from serving multiple drinks for a single price or 'all you can drink' for a set price.

SIDEWALKS COMING

A large intersection and sidewalk construction project to accommodate busy Shallowford Road is starting up soon according to Public Works Director Adrian Niles.

Niles told City Council Skelton Road at Shallowford gets upgraded to protect pedestrians and sidewalks are coming.

"We'll start with a side walk project that goes from Skelton at Shallowford Road all the way out to Washington Avenue," Niles said.

Niles said work starts in a couple of weeks to accommodate handicapped people and people on foot in the area.

A NEW STREET NAME

The street that leads to the Frances Meadows Aquatic and Community Center and the new Gainesville Middle School needs a name.

Parks and Recreation Director Melvin Cooker said his board has suggested one.

"The Parks and Recreation Board is requesting that Council consider the name of Community Way," Cooper said.

Cooper passed out a new brochure highlighting the $12-million center's amenities and fees and said the grand opening is still set for August 30th.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/7/211968