Politics
Thomastown City Council Approves 2026 Road Maintenance Allocation, Affecting Commuter Routes in Five Wards
The July 7 vote directs $4.2 million toward pavement repairs on 18 specific local streets beginning in September.
How we reported this
The Thomastown City Council voted 6-1 on July 7 to approve the 2026 Road Maintenance Allocation under the municipal capital budget. The measure targets 18 streets across Wards 2, 4, 5, 7 and 8 for full resurfacing and drainage upgrades. Residents who drive or walk these routes will see work crews start in September.
Why the vote occurred now
The council acted after the Public Works Department submitted its annual pavement condition survey in May. That survey identified 47 lane-miles rated fair or poor. Council members cited rising material costs and the need to lock in contractor prices before the next budget cycle opens in October.
Local residents will notice changes first on Maple Avenue, River Road and the three blocks of Central Street between 4th and 7th avenues. These segments carry 12,000 vehicles daily according to the 2025 traffic count. Crews will also install new curb ramps at 22 intersections to meet current accessibility standards.
Budget figures and service effects
The allocation of $4.2 million comes from the capital reserve fund, which held $9.7 million at the close of fiscal year 2025. No property tax increase is required for this item. The Thomastown Public Works Department projects the work will reduce the share of roads in poor condition from 23 percent to 17 percent by the end of 2027.
Property owners along the listed streets will receive notice 30 days before work begins on their block. Temporary no-parking rules will apply during paving, and the city will provide shuttle stops for affected bus routes. Sidewalk access will remain open except for brief periods when equipment crosses pedestrian paths.
Contract bidding opens July 22 and closes August 19. The selected contractor must finish all listed segments by December 15, 2026, weather permitting. City staff will hold two public information sessions at the Thomastown Community Center on July 29 and August 12 to answer questions about detours and access.