Erie County Legislature: Hardwick assesses county roadwork

Erie County Department of Public Works will overhaul Baseline Road

Preparation for the rehabilitation of Baseline Road on Grand Island has commenced, starting with a total shoulder reconstruction to help alleviate previous drainage issues that existed on the two-and-a-half-mile stretch being repaired by Erie County this year. According to Erie County Legislator Kevin Hardwick, who represents Grand Island in the Erie County Legislature, the portion from Whitehaven to East River will require decreased speed and additional caution while the work takes place.

Hardwick, pictured, above, at center, talking to workers on Baseline Road, visited the work site last week as Erie County Department of Public Works crews prepared multiple culverts for the installation of new drainage pipes. After that work is completed, milling of the road is expected to begin on Aug. 19, with paving to follow. The projected start date for the final phase of the project is Aug. 26. Erie County hopes to have the roadwork completed in time for school to start in September, to not disrupt bus patterns. According to the Grand Island Highway Department, detours will be posted for Baseline between Whitehaven and Grand Island Boulevard. As work heads north down Baseline Road, contiguous sections will also be closed or limited.

“This section of Baseline Road was desperately in need of repairs. We prioritized conducting the drainage work to help prevent more serious problems in the future. I know it will be an inconvenience while the work is going on, but the people on Grand Island will benefit from these improvements for many years when the work is completed,” said Hardwick.

For updates on the status of additional roadwork projects, visit www.erie.gov/dpw. To report problems on county roads, email to [email protected] or through a form at the same website.