October 28, 2022
As preparations continue for the Lampkin and Main water system upgrade, Starkville Utilities is inviting downtown businesses and property owners to learn more about the construction project during an open house on Nov. 17 at the City Hall Courtroom from 5:30-7 p.m.
Project engineers will be available to answer questions and provide an overview of the project.
“Communicating proactively is key to building stronger relationships with customers and the community,” said Edward Kemp, general manager of Starkville Utilities. “The upgrade will affect a significant portion of the downtown area, and we’re making sure community stakeholders are familiar with project goals and expectations before work starts.”
In addition to the open house, Starkville Utilities has created an email account to keep stakeholders informed about the project schedule. Those who wish to be added to the list may email downtownwater@starkvilleutilities.com.
During the project, crews will install new water mains and replace undersized sewer components. The bulk of the project will involve three areas: Main Street from City Hall to Jackson Street; Lampkin Street from Washington to Montgomery streets; and Washington and Jackson, both from Main to Lampkin. Construction will begin in early 2023 and take six to eight months to complete.
With the design phase nearly complete, Starkville Utilities will begin accepting bids in early December to select a contractor for the $2.5 million upgrade, which is part of the city’s five-year capital improvement plan.
Because the upgrade involves excavating pavement to install new water lines, portions of the project will require lane closures and impact parking areas. Traffic-control measures will be used to enhance driver and pedestrian safety.
In addition to upgrading and modernizing underground infrastructure, the Lampkin-Main project will set the stage for a series of street, sidewalk and landscaping improvements planned for the downtown area in 2023.
“These projects represent a significant amount of planning and close coordination to make sure they proceed smoothly and on schedule,” Kemp said. “Once complete, the downtown area will be served by a modern water system that is designed to accommodate Starkville’s continued growth. It’s a great investment in the future and a step forward in our Renew Principle initiative to provide safe, reliable and affordable utility services for the community.”
Starkville Utilities is a public utility serving 14,000 residences, businesses and industries in Starkville, Mississippi as well as Mississippi State University. Its mission is to supply safe, reliable, and cost-effective electric and water service of superior quality and value that improves the lives of its customers.