Time running out to help storm sewer project

Hope town officials say that your input could help sway the town's chances of saving more than half a million dollars. 

The town is asking you to fill out an online survey to show your interest in a stormwater sewer improvement project on the south side of the Town Square. The area has been plagued by an aging and collapsing storm sewer that has left large voids under parking spaces on the square.  

The town is applying for a more than $600,000 state grant to replace the storm sewer, which was built in the early 1900s of hand-laid limestone blocks.

Trena Carter, who advises the town on grant opportunities, said the town will be competing with at least 10 other communities for the grant funds. A public meeting was held before last night's Town Council meeting seeking input. Carter and Town Manager J.T. Doane said public support could be one of the deciding factors in the Community Development Block Grant application.

That project would replace the sewer line from State Road 9 to Walnut Street. Town officials said last night that the town's share of the project, about $60,840, would come from storm sewer maintenance funds.

Carter said that she would like to have all of the public surveys finished by Friday so that the town can submit the grant application.

You can fill out a survey on the town Facebook page or find a link here.