Grant approved for water line improvement

The Tucumcari City Commission Thursday approved a $500,000 grant to install increased-capacity water lines and make other improvements on Hancock and College streets on Tucumcari’s east side.

According to grant documents, The federal Community Development Block Grant will cover:

• Construction of 10-inch- and six-inch-diameter water mains on Hancock from Rock Island Street west to Dawson Street, then on College Street north from Hancock Street to High Street, according to a grant document.

• Installation costs for three fire hydrants, five tie-ins to existing water mains, 20 new service connections and gate valve assemblies, the grant document stated.

• Construction of street improvements along the water main route, including curb and gutter improvements, new sidewalks, wheel-chair ramps and other similar street improvements.

• Agreed to solicit engineering bids for the water main and street improvements for the CDBG project on Hancock and College streets.

The commission also awarded an engineering contract for $29,570 to Bohannon Huston Engineering Co., Albuquerque, for surface improvements on Second Street from Main Street south to Aber Street. Funding will come from the New Mexico Department of Transportation.

City Manager Jared Langenegger reported that asbestos testing continues on four buildings the city is tearing down to comply with its nuisance ordinance, as well as on the basement of the Tucumcari Historical Museum.

He also reported that installation of sewer lines under Interstate 40 to provide service to the KOA campground on the city’s southeast side has experienced delays but is expected to be completed this week.