Formerly known as “Operation Pothole,” the project has been expanded and rebranded to reflect a broader, long-term focus on infrastructure improvements. Borough officials say the effort will prioritize permanent paving solutions over temporary patchwork repairs, providing residents with more durable and reliable roadways.
The project is being funded through Municipal Authority Bond System (MABS) interest earnings along with annual Liquid Fuels funding, allowing the Borough to move forward without increasing taxes.
Following a competitive bidding process, Trendsetters Investments, LLC was awarded the paving contract with the lowest responsible bid of $2.50 per square foot. Borough officials noted that typical municipal paving projects often range between $3.00 and $4.50 per square foot, making the awarded bid significantly more cost-effective.
Other bids submitted included $3.50 per square foot from C&C Superseal and $4.15 per square foot from Mike Young Paving.
In addition to contracted work, Borough Council discussed incorporating a Drag-Tech paver, which would allow the Public Works Department to complete certain paving projects in-house. Officials say this could further reduce costs while improving efficiency and expanding the Borough’s ability to maintain roads moving forward.
Borough Manager Mike Cadau described the project as being handled with a business-like approach focused on cost analysis, vendor comparison, and long-term planning.
Early results from the project already show measurable savings. According to the Borough, completed work includes paving on East Washington Street and East Mt. Vernon Street, totaling 38,367 square feet at a cost of $95,917.50. Officials estimate the same work would have cost approximately $115,101 at average municipal rates, resulting in a savings of about $19,183.50.
Officials also emphasized the importance of coordinating with utility companies such as Aqua Pennsylvania and the Sewer Authority to ensure roads are properly restored following any excavation work, avoiding duplicate repairs and maintaining roadway quality.
The Borough plans to continue posting invoices and cost comparisons publicly as the project progresses, highlighting a focus on transparency and accountability.
With paving work expected to continue over the coming months, officials say the goal is to address decades of deferred maintenance while improving overall infrastructure across Shenandoah.
“Progress is happening. Streets are being repaired. Infrastructure is being restored. Taxpayer dollars are being protected,” the Borough stated in the announcement.