Streetscape Must Be Scaled Back

The dazzling new streetscape planned for , Scott Township and Carnegie must now be scaled back because of expected rising costs.

The three communities had $2.9 million to pay for the project, but estimates now put the streetscape renovations close to $4.5 million.

Heidelberg Mayor Ken LaSota told about the higher costs associated with the project during its Tuesday night voting meeting. To come under budget, he said some changes will have to be made, which could include removing the linear rain garden, ornamental lighting and trees.

Borough Manager Joe Kauer said they must now look at the design and “wean out what stays and what goes.” Kauer said it’s not unusual for estimated costs to increase as a project gets closer to construction.

“This is something we knew was coming down the pike and we’ll see what we can do to still make this beneficial for the community,” Kauer said.

He expects construction will begin in June as borough officials review what should be altered over the next month. Kauer added that they still expect to construct a sidewalk on the westbound side of Route 50.

Also during the meeting…

• Heidelberg officials said the Federal Emergency Management Agency has changed its 100-year flood map, which might affect some borough residents. Kauer said residents on Washington Street, Oak Way and the dead end section of Industry Way should come to the borough building to view the new map. Kauer said the updates might lead to change in homeowners insurance.

• Heidelberg police Chief Vernon Barkley said there have been problems with people dumping grass clippings onto the street. He said he put 14 “warning tags” on borough homes, and issued one citation.

• There will be an ALCOSAN town hall meeting Nov. 1 at the Heidelberg fire hall. The town hall begins at 5:30 p.m. and residents are encouraged to come to learn more about the sewage system.

• Council renewed the lease with Mabey Bridge and Shore for use of the borough property on Industry Way. The lease runs from 2013 through 2017.

• Council will hold budget meetings on Oct. 25 and Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. inside the municipal building.