Webster steps up sidewalk project

By Rose Hooper

The town is planning to build a 5-foot-wide sidewalk from the Post Office to the town limits near Southwestern Community College. Traveling towards Highway 107, the sidewalk will be located on the right side of N.C. 116.

"That's our proposal anyway," said Gray. "An engineering study ­ that's our next step ­ could show that is not feasible."

Because of the lay of the land, curbing, guttering and water run off will have to be considered, Gray said, as well as handicap access. "We'll also need some fill dirt around the kudzu area," he said.

He reported that a 60-foot right of way, 30 feet from the highway center, will be needed from the property owners.

Year-to-year state matching funds for sidewalk projects vary, Gray said.

"One year the state may only have money to build sidewalks, then the next year they may only have money for curbing and guttering," he said. "I don't know what the status is that begins with the new fiscal year July 1."

Estimates to build a sidewalk only are $20 per foot, Gray said, while it cost $35 per foot for curbing and guttering.

But Webster, which has Powell Bill funds it must use before June 30, is financially able to complete this project on its own.

The board authorized Gray to go ahead and hire someone to begin repair work on certain curbs and to get estimates on the complete sidewalk project.

Board member Louise Bedford recommended a "tactful" letter be mailed to all Webster residents reminding them of the new zoning ordinance that includes covering fuel tanks. The emphasis of the letter, Bedford said, is to encourage everyone to do their part in keeping Webster beautiful.

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