Frequently Asked Questions

Question: There are unpleasant odors from the standing water in the channel.

Answer:

During the conceptual phase of the project we will investiage alternatives to address atanding water. We will have more answers to these types of questions at the second public meeting, after the completion of the conceptual phase.

Question: What will happen to the existing structures and trees in and around the channel?

Answer:

There are existing walls, fences, culverts, bridges, and concrete structures located in the channel. The treatment of these structures and the existing vegetation will be determined during the conceptual phase of the project.

Question: What type of materials will be used in the channel? What will be the final appearance?

Answer:

One of the goals of this project is to maximize the use of natural materials in the channel. The feasibility of the use of softer materials will be determined, as well as the use of hard materials where necessary.

Question: Flooding creates a road hazard.

Answer:

The culverts at Syracuse Drive and Columbia Boulevard will be replaced to prevent over-topping of the roadways. The culvert outfalls along the channel will also be replaced, and the channel will be designed to convey 100-year flows.

Question: Our bridge is the sole access to our home. Will we have access during construction?

Answer:

Residential access during and after construction is a major concern. We will address this issue during the concept phase of the project.

Question: When will the project start? How long will it last?

Answer:

The project will start the last week of September, 2008. The contractor has approximately 18 months to complete the work.

Question: Who is the contractor?

Answer:

Austin Filter Systems, Inc. is the selected contractor.

The City Crews will do the Columbia/Vanderbilt storm sewer.

Question: Have permits been approved to protect wildlife and the environment?

Answer:

Yes, the city has obtained all required federal, state, and local permits.

Question: Where will the contractor start?

Answer:

Generally, the contractor will work in this order:

" From Syracuse Drive to Columbia Drive with culvert replacement at Syracuse Drive

" From Columbia Drive to 3705 University/Lancelot Place with culvert replacement at Columbia Drive

" From 3705 University/Lancelot Place to Duck Creek Drive

" Duck Creek Pond

The storm sewer extension in Columbia/Vanderbilt is not yet scheduled. It will be done by City crews so as not to interfere with the main channel work.

Question: Where will the contractor store materials?

Answer:

Austin Filter Systems will have a construction trailer and material storage on the vacant Hunt tract between Syracuse Drive and Kingsley Road.

Question: How will the contractor get access to the channel?

Answer:

The City has executed access agreements with several homeowners. The contractor and the City will work with those homeowners where the contractor would like to use those access points.

Question: What happens when it rains?

Answer:

As much as is practical, efforts will be made to anticipate the weather and prepare the site for rain events

Question: What about the silt generated during construction?

Answer:

Efforts will be made to keep roadways clear of silt and debris. Any silt generated in the channel will be deposited in the downstream pond on Duck Creek. The final project element is to clean out the pond and re-stabilize its banks.

Question: Will the contractor work early in the morning, late at night, or on week-ends?

Answer:

Working hours are from 7 am to 7 pm on Monday  Friday. The contractor may choose to work on Saturdays. Work on not allowed on Sundays except for unusual or urgent situations.

Question: How will the work affect neighborhood traffic? What about trash pick-up and mail delivery?

Answer:

" Traffic will be affected; however adequate signing and flagmen will be available at all times. The City will inform residents of any changes in trash pick-up routes or schedules, or mail delivery modifications.

" Road closures at Syracuse Drive and Columbia Drive during culvert replacements.

" One-way on Vanderbilt Drive during storm sewer extension.

Question: Are there any scheduled utility shut-offs?

Answer:

No, but there may be occasional, unscheduled, stoppages of service.

Question: What happens if my utility lines are cut?

Answer:

Residents will be notified immediately of any loss of service. For problems with City water or sewer service call the City Project Inspector during nromal business hours. If the problem occurs after hours, call City Water Dispatch at 972-205-3210, ext. 0. For problems with Franchise utilites such as phone, cable, electric, gas, etc., call the affected company. During normal business hours also call the City Project Inspector.

Question: What steps are being taken to ensure that my property is not damaged?

Answer:

Before starting construction, the contractor will take detailed video of the entire project. This will verify and document existing conditions. It is advisable that each owner do the same for their property.

If you feel that your property has been damaged, please contact the City representative immediately.

Question: Can I have the contractor do some extra work on my property?

Answer:

Owners are free to negotiate individual contracts with the Citys contractor; however the City reserves the right to refuse the work to be done if it is believed that the work might interfere with the work schedule or other activities.

Owners are advised to investigate and acquire all necessary permits.

Question: Who can I contact regarding the project?

Answer:

City Contacts:

Johnny Lewis Project Inspector 214-803-125 Jlewis@ci.garland.tx.us

Donna Manhart Project Manager 972-205-2847 dmanhart@ci.garland.tx.us

Bill Heinze Senior Field Engineer 972-205-2174 bheinze@ci.garland.tx.us

John Baker Director of Engineering 972-205-2170 jbaker@ci.garland.tx.us

Austin Filter Systems:

Craig Bond 512-331-6673 craginafs@gotsky.com

Question: What trees can I choose when I coordinate with the City?

Answer:

Pecan (Carya illinoensis)

Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii)

Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa)

Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)

White Ash (Fraxinus americana)

Ceder Elm (Ulmus crassifolia)

Water Oak (Quercus nigra)

Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

Question: If I have a walk bridge on my property what will it look like?

Answer:

The footbridge, as called out in the specifications, will be a Wheeler "Timber Stringer Recreation Bridge" with standard railing. More specifics on the bridge will be released when the contractor provides Shop Drawings to the City.

Question: What shrubs can I choose when I coordinate with the City?

Answer:

Rough-Leaf dogwood (Cornus drumondii)

Button Bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

Yaupon Holly (llex Vomitoria)

Deciduous Holly (llex decidua)

Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Mexican Plum (Prunus mexicana)