The City of Ringgold awaits completion of its downtown renovation and pedestrian bridge. “With any project there are always unexpected delays,” said City Manager Dan Wright. “We are waiting for the contractor Talley Construction and engineer Clark Patterson Lee to complete development of a solution to a problem they did not foresee in their original plans.”
As Talley Construction was preparing for its next step to grind down the street to its new level for paving, it was discovered the work would impact an underground stormwater tunnel and some utilities. According to Rich Edinger of CPL, the best course for the project to salvage the function of the storm water tunnel is the placement of an elliptical tile rather than the standard round.
“Initially the contractor thought he was going to be able to place 36” reinforced concrete tile under Nashville Street and Lafayette Street,” Mr. Wright said. “After consulting with other utilities and our engineer it appears that we an elliptical tile 29” H by 45” wide will have to be used to get the necessary capacity to insure that stormwater will be handled.”
According to Mark Rose of Talley Construction, Talley is also working with Ringgold Telephone Company on the exact location of its communication ducts. “The city will be trying to assist in locating the connection point of the stacked rock culvert and the underpass tile,” Mr. Wright said. “Once all these pieces are defined, the engineer will submit a revision to the Georgia Department of Transportation for approval. Once that occurs the contractor can proceed with completion.”
Barger Pedestrian Bridge is also awaiting Atlanta Gas Light to relocate some underground utilities before Raines Brothers may proceed with its completion. “The gas company has now received permission from to work on CSX Railroad to relocate their line/valve,” Mr. Wright said. “Atlanta Gas Light is working with CSX to arrange a time to do the work. When complete the contractor will finish the project.”
Wright said that city staff has been working to keep area merchants up-to-date on the delays and both the city and the contractors are striving to minimize the impact of the latest challenges on area property owners. For more information contact Ringgold City Hall at 706-935-3061.