Potholes, rough spots and uneven pavement are some of the problems plaguing many streets in Garland. Residents and visitors have called, emailed and posted their stories to social media.
During September, the city of Garland is inviting residents and visitors to give input on streets that might require major repair or complete replacements via Garland eAssist, the city’s online service request system. Look under the “Streets and Sidewalks” category. You can find eAssist at GarlandTX.gov or download the eAssist app to your smartphone or tablet.
Report damage to residential or non-arterial streets by selecting the “Street Critique” request option. Provide the address or location of the street, along with a description of the street’s condition. A photo also may be submitted to help illustrate the issues.
Every street and alley segment in Garland has been assigned a Pavement Condition Index based on a physical inspection. The PCI is a numerical rating from 1 to 100, with 100 being the best rating. All streets submitted will be re-evaluated and their PCIs updated. The streets with the lowest PCI will be included in our next three-year infrastructure construction program, which will be announced in the spring of 2016. “Street Critique” input will be part of the final evaluation process.
“Street Critique” participants are asked to focus specifically on residential streets and other roadways that are not main thoroughfares. “We have many opportunities to assess the condition of the more heavily-traveled roads,” said Street Department Director Steve Oliver. “Garland citizens can help us best by providing input about the streets they utilize in and around their neighborhoods.”
During the recession and post-recession recovery, many street improvement projects were postponed due to lack of funds. Additionally, the recent drought conditions have accelerated some street deterioration. As the economy has recovered, the funding for Garland street projects is slowly recovering, too. The Garland City Council approved increased street funding by 50% ($5 million) in fiscal year 2014-15 and will continue to prioritize funding for streets in the coming years.
Help grow Garland by taking part in the “Street Critique” program, which goes through Sept. 30.
Information provided by the city of Garland.