County Forms Committee for Road and Bridge Assumption Study
MIDDLESEX COUNTY - Council has established an ad hoc committee to oversee the upcoming County Road and Bridge Assumption Study, set to review and recommend infrastructure needs for local municipalities. The decision came during the council meeting on May 28, as presented by County Engineer Chris Traini.
The committee is tasked with assessing which roads and bridges should be assumed by the county in July 2025, following a routine cycle that occurs every five years. This timing strategically avoids the winter maintenance season, facilitating smoother transitions and assessments.
Chris Traini outlined the composition and goals of the committee, which includes both county officials and representatives from municipalities to ensure a comprehensive review of infrastructure across diverse regions. The committee members appointed are Warden Aina DeViet, Mayor Brian Ropp of North Middlesex, Deputy Mayor Michelle Smibert of Thames Centre, Transportation Manager Andrew Giesen of Middlesex Centre, Manager of Public Works Mauro Castrilli of Southwest Middlesex, and Engineering Supervisor Ryan Hillinger of Middlesex County.
The committee is expected to convene three to four times before early 2025 to set parameters for the assumption of roads and bridges and to finalize their recommendations for council approval. This systematic approach aims to maintain and enhance the county's infrastructure effectively, aligning with the county's strategic goals of ensuring sustainable community foundations and promoting excellence in service delivery.
County council approved the formation and membership of the committee without opposition, signifying unanimous support for the initiative. The appointment of the committee members was confirmed by a motion moved by Councillor Brennan and Councillor Grantham, and the decision was carried with full agreement from council.
This committee's work will play a crucial role in planning the future of Middlesex County's infrastructure, ensuring roads and bridges are adequately maintained and efficiently integrated into the county’s broader strategic framework.
David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Middlesex Banner
