Dear Resident of Grand Coulee

I wish to provide you with an update on the decisions and actions taken by the Council regarding the town’s road remediation program. In the spring of this year, council initiated the process to address the remediation of drainage and roads within the town limits.

Initially, the plan was to crown and improve the town’s roads to enhance drainage and prepare them for new surfacing. However, during this assessment, it became evident that addressing drainage was the top priority to ensure the longevity of the  roads. Council deemed this to be a crucial and practical approach, as there was no sense in investing in road infrastructure that could be compromised by drainage issues.

Consequently, Council proceeded with the drainage remediation, which was completed by Metz Construction in September 2023. Subsequently, the next step in the town’s plan was to solicit proposals to identify the most financially viable long-term surfacing solutions for the roads.

It was also determined during the spring assessment and Metz Construction review,  that approximately 30% of the roads required reconstruction to support the long-term surfacing. In recent meetings, Council discussed the need to seek expertise in road surfacing and decided to consult the engineer who conducted the asset management review in 2018-2019. (Associated Engineering) This engineer will provide us with the testing to determine the reconstruction needed and a couple options that consider long-term effectiveness and annual operation within the town’s budget constraints and existing infrastructure. Once Council receives the information, Grand Coulee citizens will again be asked to be part of the process to determine the surfacing of the roads.

Over the next few weeks, Associated Engineering will be in town, commencing their work during the week of October 31st. They will be assessing the  roads and conducting testing, including 30 core samples throughout the town. This effort will help us understand the extent of the work required for reconstruction.

Once this assessment is complete, citizens are informed and consulted and the best solution for the town’s long-term road remediation is determined, Council will issue a request for proposals. The town’s goal is to begin road repairs in the spring. Council appreciates your patience and understanding during this process.

For updates, please keep an eye on the  Facebook page and website. While we do not anticipate any significant inconveniences or issues during these repairs, we will notify you if any changes  are necessary.

I also want to inform you that during the October 26th council meeting,  Council decided that long-term parking on town easements, infrastructure and property will not be allowed. The existing bylaw will remain in place and those out of compliance will be processed.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work to improve the town’s infrastructure.

Council, Administration and Public Works