Columbus fast-tracks $6.25M emergency sewer repair and $11.6M Blueprint stormwater project

Columbus fast-tracks $6.25M emergency sewer repair and $11.6M Blueprint stormwater projectDriven by heavy spring rains and aging infrastructure, the Columbus City Council authorized major utility contracts on June 22, including urgent repairs to a collapsed 78-inch brick sewer and massive investments in permeable pavers to manage stormwater runoff in the Greater Hilltop community.

The council authorized $6.25 million for emergency repairs to a collapsed 78-inch brick sewer at Pearl Street and Brewers Alley in German Village.

Danbert, Inc. was awarded an $11.67 million construction contract for the Blueprint 1 Palmetto/Westgate project, which features permeable pavers and stormwater improvements.

Driven Excavating LLC secured a $5.91 million contract for the Velma Avenue Area Water Line Improvements project to replace over 10,000 linear feet of water mains and private lead service lines.

The council approved a $2.41 million transfer from a special purpose PFAS Settlement Fund to the Water Operating Fund for water quality improvements.

The Columbus City Council approved a major package of water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure investments during its June 22, 2026, meeting, tackling both long-term lead line replacements and emergency sewer failures. Prompted by heavy rainfall in May that led to the collapse of a 78-inch diameter brick sewer in the German Village neighborhood, the council authorized a $6.25 million emergency repair contract. The urgent work at the intersection of Pearl Street and Brewers Alley was awarded to Complete General Construction Company, Resource International, Inc., and Korda/Nemeth Engineering Inc. to quickly restore services and prevent further disruption to daily utility operations. In a significant push for green infrastructure, the council advanced the Blueprint 1 Palmetto/Westgate project, awarding an $11.67 million construction contract to Danbert, Inc. The project will install multiple street sections of permeable pavers and configure other stormwater system improvements in the Greater Hilltop community to better manage drainage and runoff. The council also authorized related construction administration and inspection contracts with DLZ Ohio, Inc. and Hatch Associates Consultants, Inc. to oversee the Blueprint initiatives and other water line projects. On the drinking water front, Driven Excavating LLC secured a $5.91 million contract for the Velma Avenue Area Water Line Improvements project. The scope includes the installation of more than 10,000 linear feet of new water mains and the replacement of privately owned lead service lines, aimed at minimizing water loss and reducing the burden on maintenance operations. In addition to capital projects, the council approved the transfer of $2.41 million from a special purpose PFAS Settlement Fund into the Columbus Water and Power Water Operating Fund to support ongoing water quality improvements. Furthermore, a $2.56 million guaranteed maximum reimbursement agreement was approved with PREMIER Design + Build Group, LLC for the Intermodal Sanitary Subtrunk Extension Phase 2, which will provide new sanitary sewer service to the rapidly developing Rickenbacker service area.