The much-anticipated resurfacing and drainage improvements of Elm Street Road should begin by June.

Troy City Council members reviewed plans for the ATRIP-funded project at this week’s meeting. The project will allow for much needed drainage improvements on the road and the building of a bridge, Troy Mayor Jason Reeves said.

“This is the last portion of ATRIP II to be completed,” Reeves said. “Elm Street will be resurfaced from George Wallace Drive and to Swindall Road, and there will be a 40-foot bridge built at the base of Ward’s pond.”

Assistant General Manager for Troy utilities Mike Davis said the city had received notice funds for the project would be released in March..

“We have submitted an application to the state for approval that has been approved for the March letting, which means we can go ahead and bid that project,” Davis said. “That should allow us to be able to by the time school is out – either late May or fist of June – to start the construction.”

He said work should be completed by late fall or early winter.

Because the road is highly trafficked, Davis said an alternate route plan would be developed for drivers.

“Because the road will be closed, there will be a traffic plan provided way in advanced to make sure that everybody knows the routing during this construction period,” Davis said. “We ask for patience during the construction, and ask that citizens keep in mind that we will have a road that will last for 20 to 30 years when the project is completed.”

Council members have pushed for the repairing of the road for some time now, and Reeves echoed Davis’ sentiments.

“To the people who travel that road we appreciate your patience,” Reeves said. “We know it’s been a frustrating item, but when you deal with the federal government on these types of things there are things you have to do, and it’s just been one of those processes.”

Reeves said the project would cost the city only $400,000 instead of over $1 million thanks to the ATRIP funding. District 1 Councilman Charlie “Sarge” Dunn said he wanted to thank those who have supported the project as Elm Street lies in his district.

“I just wanted to tank the folks as we get this done and glad this day has come that we approved the ATRIP funding,” Dunn said.

District 2 Councilman Greg Meeks echoed Dunn’s sentiments and even acknowledged his own role in getting the project on its way.

“I know I have caused a little controversy with this project over the last couple of years, but I want to be able to tell the people in District 1 and 2 that it is finally a reality,” Meeks said.