Planning Phase (Completed July 2007)
During the planning phase, questionnaires and public meetings are used to obtain input from property owners. The existing drainage system is evaluated to determine areas of flooding and erosion damage. Several improvement alternatives are developed and evaluated to determine the best solution. A recommended alternative is presented to the public for comment at the end of the planning phase. The planning phase of a project typically lasts 12 to 27 months.
Design Phase (September 2007 - TBD)
During the design phase, construction drawings for the alternative selected during the planning phase are developed. Many details must be addressed including the determination of specific pipe sizes and alignments, channel widths and lining types, inlet sizes and locations, utility relocations, and easement locations. The design phase of a project typically lasts 21 to 34 months.
Permitting Phase (Time frame TBD)
During the permitting phase, the required water quality permits are obtained from Federal and State governments. Other permits such as permission to work within railroad and NCDOT rights-of-way will be obtained during this phase. The permitting phase of a project typically lasts 3 to 9 months. The permitting phase of a project may overlap other phases.
Property Easement/Acquisition (Time frame TBD)
The City's real estate staff works with citizens and businesses to acquire Storm Drainage Easements (SDEs). The City requests that SDEs be donated to provide access to your property to make the recommended improvements and provide future maintenance. In addition to SDEs, temporary construction easements may be needed to access work areas. The bid phase will begin after all easements are acquired. The easement acquisition phase of a project typically lasts 9 to 12 months.
Bid Phase (Time frame TBD)
During the bid phase, the final plans will be circulated to qualified contractors for a competitive bidding process. By state law, the lowest responsible bidder is awarded the construction contract. The bid phase of a project typically lasts 4 to 5 months.
Construction Phase (Time frame TBD)
Throughout construction, efforts will be made to minimize disruption to nearby property owners. Construction of proposed improvements will be supervised by City inspectors. Notifications of key construction dates will be mailed to residents prior to construction. Because projects vary in size, the typical construction phase of a project can last from 3 months to over 2 years.
