Culvert repair plans addressed

HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — The Hot Springs Village Property Owners Association has issued a response to questions asked following the most recent Public Works Committee meeting.

During the meeting, there was much discussion on and a committee vote was taken regarding culvert repairs. The vote signaled support for the director of Public Works, and a collaborative plan to evaluate the drainage culverts beneath DeSoto Boulevard, Balboa Road, Fresno Road, Balearic Road, and South Barcelona, before any paving begins in those areas of concern.

Despite some confusion following those discussions, paving and patching of secondary roadways will continue as planned, unless a culvert issue is detected during the planning process. Additionally, the Public Works director and committee members are working diligently on a comprehensive five-year strategic plan for roadway improvements, associated drainage infrastructure, and safety.

“We deeply appreciate the expertise of these individuals. We are a much wiser and proactive organization today because of the leadership of our board, staff and committee members who continue to strongly advocate for their community” CEO Lesley Nalley said in a news release. “The intention was not to suspend our entire paving program. This is a multiyear effort, which is common for a community preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary, especially one our size. As such, repair and replacement plans will balance all needs to keep us thriving for another 50 years.”

A culvert rehabilitation project involving 1,440 linear feet of corrugated metal drainage culverts will be presented at the POA’s board of directors meeting on Aug. 19.