Work on Phase I of Beach Walk continues, and Coronado Drive will be open as a three-lane road by the end of February. The only road closure is at Hamden Drive where it intersects Gulfview Boulevard. They are making the hot-tap from the new 16-inch water main to the existing 16-inch water main at the south connection point, just around the corner of Hamden on Gulfview. When this is complete, the new 16-inch water main will be connected at the corner of Hamden and Coronado. After that, pressure testing/chlorination of the main will begin before it is placed into service.
Storm sewer work continues on Hamden. Progress Energy is putting in decorative lighting on the west side of Coronado, while Westra puts down base rock to get ready for asphalt paving between Devon and Fifth Street. A subcontractor is beginning construction of some "fill-in" sections of curb and starting on some of the driveway/sidewalk concrete work at the same location. Some adjustments are being made to the water main on Second Street.
When City Councilmembers awarded the contract for Phases II, III and IV of Beach Walk, they also recognized the awarding of grants totaling approximately $3.9 million and additional developer contributions of $78,000. Because the bids came in lower than expected, and the additional revenue was put in the budget, the city was able to return $4.5 million to city reserves and reduce the amount of anticipated borrowing for the project by $1.9 million. The city anticipates borrowing $12.1 million, down from the original $14 million, and additional revenues may still be realized for this project. An additional $843,000 in grant revenues and $3 million in developer contributions are possible. If and when these monies are received, the borrowing will be further reduced. The city "borrows" by issuing bonds.
The last three phases of Beach Walk include relocating Gulfview Boulevard, constructing wide promenades on the east and west sides of the new road, and restoring dunes and decorative touches. Construction will start early this spring, and the goal is to have all work done by mid-2009.
You're invited to attend the next Hard Hat Meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 9 a.m., at the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center, 69 Bay Esplanade. If you have questions about the meeting, call 562-4024.
For more information about Beach Walk, visit www.myclearwater.com/beachwalk.