Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
STRATHROY-CARADOC – Council has approved two key infrastructure projects set for 2025, awarding contracts for road resurfacing and sidewalk replacements during its June 16 meeting.
The municipality’s 2025 Asphalt Resurfacing Program will move forward under a contract awarded to Steve Smith Construction Corporation in the amount of $596,957.50 plus HST. The work will focus on Drury Lane in Strathroy and Railroad Street in Mount Brydges.
Although the original budget allocated $400,000 for the project, costs increased following a more detailed engineering review. Director of Engineering and Public Works Mark Ortiz explained the change. “After engineering review was completed, it was identified that additional scope would be required, including road widening and adding gravel to the roadways, among several other improvements,” he told council.
The municipality retained BM Ross and Associates to conduct engineering assessments prior to tendering, a departure from previous years when contractors largely handled the scope directly. “Once they did their own investigation… the condition of roadway was [such that] it needed more than just resurfacing,” said Ortiz.
The additional costs will be funded through reserves, a recommendation that received unanimous council support. The motion to award the contract was moved by Councillor Frank Kennes and seconded by Councillor Steve Pelkman.
Council also approved the 2025 Sidewalk Tender Program, awarding a $181,650.64 contract to Fiorino Concrete Ltd., the lowest of 13 bids submitted. The work will include sidewalk replacements in Mount Brydges and Strathroy.
This project falls within the combined $240,000 budget—$170,000 allocated for 2025 and $70,000 carried over from 2024—leaving roughly $60,000 in unallocated funds. These may be used to support other pending infrastructure items, including possible crosswalk improvements.
