DIDSBURY - Council has approved the 2025 Town of Didsbury capital budget, which calls for total spending of $1,964,450 on 13 projects.
The move came by way of motion at the Dec. 10 council meeting, held in person and online.
The budget funding includes $109,050 from the operating budget, $937,700 from reserves, and $917,700 from grants.
The budget, a projection of spending for the coming year, includes projects for engineering and infrastructure, buildings, land improvements, and vehicle and equipment.
The 2025 roadworks program includes the $300,000 mill and overlay and targeted reconstruction of segments of 18th Avenue from 20th Street to 23rd Street, and phase 1 of the 7th Avenue project totalling 850 metres.
“The 18th Avenue project is an important east-west connector on the south side of downtown,” chief administrative officer Ethan Gorner said in a briefing note to council.
“The travelling surface is deteriorating and the edges are failing. Seventh Avenue, annexed into town, has a strong road base but the asphalt surface has large unmanageable potholes. Operations staff are unable to maintain the segment in its current condition.”
The $180,000 stormwater pipe replacement project will replace 150 metres of storm line due to a storm line heaving causing a substantial bump at Westhill Drive and 23rd Street. The project will also restore the travel surface for road users.
“The stormwater pipe replacement will improve the conveyance of stormwater, reducing the potential for flooding. Additionally, restoring the travel surface will make the intersection safer for users.”
The $30,000 Memorial Complex eavestrough repairs project will repair and/or replace several sections of the eavestrough at the facility that have fallen off as a result of high winds and/or age.
“Capital maintenance of this asset will ensure the facility’s long-term viability, allowing it to serve residents and visitors into the future.”
The $75,000 Westhill neighbourhood playground replacement project will replace playground equipment at the playground that has aged out.
The $220,400 Didsbury tree project will see about 100 trees planted at local playgrounds and along various roadways.
The $80,000 Memorial Complex parking lot project will see the development of a gravel parking lot on the north-east side of the complex lot, including post and cable perimeter fencing.
The $80,000 municipal enforcement vehicle replacement will see the replacement of the department’s current 2014 Dodge Ram truck.
Council is continuing its deliberations on the 2025 operating budget.
