[Southsider2k12]

http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?Sectio...amp;TM=46499.27

City Street Paving Budget Should Work

Jason Miller
The News-Dispatch

MICHIGAN CITY - The $1.5 million or so the city has budgeted for street paving in 2008 is likely to be enough, thanks to a gesture by the city's road-work contractor to freeze its 2007 prices.

"I'm sure it will (save the city money), but how much, I don't know yet," Michigan City Engineer Bill Phelps said Monday. "I know it will certainly help us out."

Phelps told the Michigan City Board of Works Monday that Reith-Riley froze its 2007 prices for 2008, despite the fact that oil prices continue to rise. The main ingredient in street paving - asphalt - contains large amounts of petroleum, Phelps said.

Reith-Riley also runs a number of vehicles during projects, costing thousands in fuel costs.

Michigan City Controller and board of works member John Schaefer said Monday the cost of paving varies from year to year, but that the amount budgeted for paving in the 2008 budget is "pretty close" to the $1.5 million budgeted in 2007.

"Any time you're in a situation where costs are rising and you can take advantage of someone locking their prices, you do it and you're thankful," he said.

The city seeks bids for the paving contract each year, Phelps said, and Reith-Riley is usually one of only two companies to bid.

Contact reporter Jason Miller at jmiller@thenewsdispatch.com.

[Roger Kaputnik]

So, Gentle Reader, which is the worst street in MC?

[Ang]

Based on my visit last summer, I would say Earl Rd is in need of repaving

[Southsider2k12]

Ohio St north of Coolspring/Earl to Hwy 20 could use some work.