Backhoes were excavating a large trench, while workers dug around the site, as the city‘s Mound Park renovation project got underway Thursday morning.

Portsmouth Community Development Director Becky Steele said the work is being funded through a $350,000 Community Development Block Grant.

Richard Howerton Jr. of Howerton Engineering, the company performing the project, said the projects will be done in a certain order.

“The first thing that is being done is the storm sewer improvements on Hutchins Street, which includes new curb boxes, curb inlets, storm drain,” Howerton said. “The next thing that is being done is the actual sidewalk improvements around the park. Following that, we’re doing some sidewalk replacement on several different city streets in the neighborhood. Then, finally, the contractor will be installing some fire hydrants as well as replacing the handicap curb ramps.”

Portsmouth Mayor David Malone wielded a gold shovel and turned some dirt to symbolize the beginning of the project.

“We always want to try to upgrade our infrastructure in areas where families and residents are. And this is just an upgrade to keep our community safe,” Malone said. “Improving the sidewalks and the curb cuts, and things like that. It’s a beautification type thing, an upgrade to our neighbors.”

Steele said the Community Housing Improvement Program is also allowing them at the same time to rehab eight homes and repair 12 others for qualified homeowners.

FRANK LEWIS may be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 232, or flewis@heartlandpublications.com.