Improvements to the Piedmont’s downtown streets may be on the way, according to officials at Tuesday’s meeting of the Piedmont City Council.
Mayor Bill Baker informed the council of an opportunity to have portions of Center Avenue and Ladiga Street resurfaced near the brick crosswalks in order to create a smoother and safer ride.
According to Baker the city has received numerous complaints concerning the rough and bumpy conditions when driving over the crosswalks.
Baker said that Calhoun County has offered to do the job at no charge to the city, telling the council, “It’s a free job, so I think we would be crazy not to take advantage of it.”
However, Baker said more discussions would have to be had, addressing concerns such as the thickness of the asphalt, before the council approves the project.
In other business, the council granted Police Chief Freddie Norton’s request for the purchase of two new police cars. The total cost of the cars, including adding the necessary upgrades, will come to about $35,000 for one patrol car and about $24,000 for an administration car.
Norton and the council expressed interest beginning to rotate new car purchases—buying two new cars, while selling two older cars each year.
Bills for payment were approved in the amount of $434,286.57.
Council Member Matt Rogers was appointed to serve as the city’s representative on the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority’s election committee.
The next regular Piedmont City Council Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 18th, immediately following the work session, which is set for 5:30pm.