Plans extend lighting project

The Russellville City Council voted Monday to move forward with all three phases of the ongoing streetscape project.

The move clears the way for the Russellville Electric Board and contractors to complete lighting work throughout downtown. The council’s action paves the way for new lighting to be installed north to the intersection of Jackson and Cotaco streets. Original plans did not call for new lighting at that intersection.

Russellville Mayor Troy Oliver said electric board members and manager Steve Defoor worked to find a plan that makes the new lighting possible.

“We need to commend Mr. Defoor and the electric board for working with us to find a way to get this done,” Oliver said.

“Without their help this would not be possible.”

A group of residents and business owners met with the council Monday night to encourage them to extend the project to Cotaco.

All of the traffic lights, streetlights and lampposts throughout downtown will have matching decorative patterns.

“It will all look very good when it’s complete,” Oliver said.

When the project is complete, the city’s payment to the electric board will increase about $2,000 each month, but an agreement with the Tennessee Valley Authority will allow the city to receive more in-lieu-of tax money, which will help offset those costs.

In other business, the council:

• approved a resolution commending the electric board for their assistance with the streetscape project

• approved a final invoice from Garver Engineers on the new airport manager

• accepted a bid from North Alabama Paving for $49, 260 to add a turn lane at the corner of Waterloo Road and Summit Street.