By KIM VAN METER
On Monday, Jan. 6, Oakdale Public Services Director Jeff Gravel presented an extensive overview of the city’s capital improvement projects at the City Council meeting.
Gravel’s presentation covered infrastructure upgrades, ongoing projects, and future plans designed to address key areas in Oakdale’s development.
Overview of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Gravel explained that the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) prioritizes projects based on city master plans, data collection, and community feedback. “Staff is currently updating the capital improvement program,” Gravel noted, with a presentation of the revised plan expected this spring.
Key Project Highlights
Southwest Downtown ATP Safe Routes to School Project:
This pavement rehabilitation and utility upgrade initiative was approved on Nov. 18 and is set to begin mid-February. The project covers curbs, gutters, and sidewalks, with Pacific Gas & Electric involved to ensure utility work aligns with the construction schedule. A $1 million grant funds a significant portion of the project, which Gravel described as “one of the most ambitious street projects” Oakdale has undertaken.
North Seventh Avenue Pavement Rehabilitation:
This project addresses severe street deterioration, described by Gravel as “a quilt work of patches.” The road, intersecting D Street, has no wet utilities, as those are routed through nearby alleys, making it a straightforward pavement repair project.
E Street Beautification:
This project will enhance E Street from Yosemite Avenue to First Avenue with curb, gutter, sidewalk improvements, streetlight upgrades, and bollard installations. Gravel mentioned the possibility of adding an ornamental arch at First and E Street, pending cost evaluations.
Albers Road Rehabilitation:
This initiative will cover Albers Road from Warnerville Road to the southern city limit. Initially part of a joint venture with the county that was deferred, the project is now supported by a $900,000 grant, covering 95 percent of the cost. Construction is expected to begin following environmental clearance.
Gilbert Avenue Improvements:
Spanning G Street to J Street, this project will address both pavement rehabilitation and storm drainage upgrades to mitigate flooding issues near the high school. Gravel acknowledged concerns about student parking and safety, noting that the city will explore delineated parking spaces and signage.
Parks and Recreation Developments
Brennan Park:
Following a Dec. 18 neighborhood meeting, enhancements include modifying the current basketball court to include a shorter full court and a half-court for dual use. The first phase will focus on resurfacing and court lighting.
Water and Utility Upgrades
Cedar Place Repairs:
Described as “beyond basic pothole repair,” this short residential stretch near Stanislaus Avenue is set for full rehabilitation, including utility upgrades. Gravel noted that plans will be brought before the council in the spring.
Well Projects:
The city plans to drill a test well near the Saddle Club to evaluate water supply and quality. Gravel emphasized the importance of securing land access to accommodate potential future treatment facilities.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Dredging:
The recent dredging of the aeration ponds removed 1,700 tons of sludge—roughly 90 truckloads. The process, which restored the facility’s treatment capacity, involved contributions from other cities and local businesses like Last Call Brewing, which provided by-products to help regenerate the microorganisms essential to the treatment process.
Council and Community Engagement
Gravel and his team were commended for their proactive approach to securing grants and maintaining project readiness. “Our goal is always to have almost shovel-ready projects so that we can be competitive,” noted Gravel, referencing Oakdale’s successful grant acquisition for infrastructure improvements.
The presentation concluded with discussions on future planning, including the need for additional sports fields and continued collaboration with community organizations to meet growing recreational demands.
Residents are advised to prepare for temporary disruptions during construction phases but can look forward to significant enhancements to Oakdale’s streets, parks, and utilities, noted officials.
For more information, call City Hall at 209-845-3571.
