Avondale, Licking View projects nearing bid process
ZANESVILLE — The Muskingum County Commissioners are looking to bid out two projects: One for Avondale and the other for the Licking View area.
Avondale Youth Center is in the process of upgrading its facility. Eric Reed, of ARPA compliance officer, said G&M Construction recently finished installing brand new windows in the complex, as the commissioners paid $179,000 for the project. Architect Pat Kelly assisted with those efforts.
The county also received a $450,000 HUD grant to replace the HVAC system, said Reed. Avondale currently uses a boiler system, which has had some issues in recent years. Reed added they could potentially add a generator and there will be some upgrades in the electrical system to meet the needs of the new system.
The county aims to bid out for that project in August.
Numerous improvements have occurred at Avondale in recent years, and the HVAC system will be the last piece to the upgrades, said Director Gary King.
He noted the boiler system was antiquated and had become inefficient in recent years.
"We've had really nice upgrades, and good community support, especially from the commissioners, have played key roles in making those happen," King said. "The kids here have suffered through trauma and deserve to have a comfortable place where they feel warm and secure. It also improves the healthy and safety of everyone here, and that's important as we continue to serve the community."
King also expressed his gratitude in replacing the more than 80 windows in the facility. Having windows that work properly will also add to the living conditions for the residents.
"There are fewer residential crisis care centers like us so keeping places like this up to date are important for our community," King said. "The windows add to that visual appeal, as well as help with the cost savings. It's amazing how much nicer it looks, and we're pleased to see the progress and thankful for the investment from the community."
The Muskingum County Engineer's office is preparing for the next phase of the Licking View sewer project. Projects Assistant Zack Forker said the office received $4 million, through principal forgiveness, from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the project.
The office is looking to acquire easements and aims to bid out the project in August or September, said Forker.
bhannahs@gannett.com; @brandonhannahs
This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: Avondale, Licking View projects nearing bid process
