The Stafford City Council made significant strides in infrastructure development during their recent meeting, focusing primarily on the Pike Road Improvement Project. The council approved a series of resolutions that will finalize the project, which has been a collaborative effort with Lovett Industrial.

The council's discussions centered on three key agenda items related to the Pike Road project. First, they authorized the mayor to complete necessary paperwork for the project, which had been delayed due to a transition in public works leadership. City officials clarified that a resolution was required to comply with purchasing policies, marking this as a "cleanup item" to ensure all procedural steps were followed.

Next, the council approved a change order that adjusted the contract to reflect actual expenditures, resulting in a reduction of the overall contract amount. This adjustment was necessary due to unforeseen circumstances during construction, including delays caused by weather and utility relocations.

Finally, the council discussed the final pay estimate for the project, which is now nearing completion. City Engineer Bob Jones highlighted the project's success, noting that it has already begun to alleviate traffic congestion in the area. He also mentioned the potential for reimbursement from the county, which could amount to between $800,000 and $1 million, although this is still under negotiation.

The Pike Road Improvement Project represents a significant investment in Stafford's infrastructure, with a total cost of approximately $4 million, of which the city is responsible for about $2 million after contributions from Lovett Industrial. The council's actions not only finalize the project but also set the stage for future developments in the area, enhancing connectivity and safety for residents and businesses alike.