Delaware County Highway Department representatives asked the Redevelopment Commission Oct. 9 to fund replacement of multiple sections of failing guardrail on Walnut Avenue and nearby stretches, describing existing rails as "falling into the ditch" and out of current specifications.

Tommy Humber, Delaware County Highway Department, and Dean Thomas, county engineer, told commissioners they had three contractor quotes. Humber said the department preferred to award the full length of replacements but provided separate quotes for shorter segments if funding or scheduling required phased work. He said one contractor (Drew Corporation) would submit a second, full-run estimate within days.

Humber also told the commission the highway department has sought savings by coordinating traffic control and is prepared to return any unspent money to the commission after the work is invoiced. Commissioners moved the item and approved the request on a roll-call vote, with the understanding staff would present the second Drew estimate when available. The commission’s approval included a requirement to follow procurement protocol and to confirm final contractor pricing before payment.

No specific contractor was awarded during the Oct. 9 meeting; the county will proceed after receiving the outstanding estimate and confirm final invoicing before disbursing funds.