Sunday, September 16, 2001
Myron Street's old 8-inch line often ruptured five to 10 times during the winter.
By TIM YOVICH
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
HUBBARD -- Homeowners living along Myron Street don't mind that their street is being torn up.
"We have to have some inconvenience to get convenience," commented Rocco Rich, who lives at Myron and Stewart streets.
JCM Contracting of New Springfield has been installing a 12-inch waterline off the north side of Myron, from North Main Street to Caroline Avenue, at a cost of $385,000.
The work is being done because the old 8-inch line runs down the middle of the street, making it susceptible to breaks.
Mayor George Praznik said the line ruptures five to 10 times during the winter, causing traffic to be rerouted, interruption of water service and the expense of line repair.
Traffic volume: Rich said one of the problems that has plagued the street is the large amount of truck traffic in the residential area.
"There are 18-wheelers going crazy up here," Rich said.
As for the digging, breaking up the road and dust, Rich added, "There's no problem at all."
Others along Myron agree.
"I don't mind if they tear up the street," said Marlane Bone, who lives at Myron and Grace streets, adding that the old waterline would always break.
Steve Mislevy, who lives at Myron and Center streets, said he is glad the new line is being installed on the side of Myron because of the weight of the trucks.
Having lived in his house since 1955, Mislevy explained truck traffic has increased in the mixed residential and light industrial area.
Of late, he said, reduction in railroad use has increased truck traffic.
Another homeowner who has lived in the neighborhood for 44 years explained that traffic has increased because the street is being used as a shortcut to avoid traffic in the downtown.
The residents also hope construction will result in resurfacing Myron.
Praznik said he is looking to resurface the street.
Michael Johnstone, inspector from Environmental Group of Akron hired by JCM Contracting to assure the project meets environmental regulations, said work crews have run into some problems.
In one case, workers dug up an old waterline that wasn't on the maps.
Better pressure: Praznik said the project will increase water pressure in the area and will be completed in three to four weeks.
The waterline will eventually be connected to a new 12-inch main that will run from the downtown north to the city limits.
In addition to serving the city's entire north end, Praznik added it also will service commercial businesses at Interstate 80 and U.S. Route 62/state Route 7 in Hubbard Township.
Both city and township officials have focused on the I-80 area to lure businesses to increase the tax base.
That project will cost about $900,000. The city has received a $201,000 state Issue 2 grant and a 20-year, no-interest state loan of $600,000. The city also will come up with $99,000.
yovich@vindy.com