By BRENT MARTIN
St. Joseph Post
Much construction work of various types is being done around St. Joseph.
Some residents complain contractors have been leaving trash behind after completing projects with a few damaging property.
St. Joseph Public Works Director, Abe Forney, says residents who have complaints should contact his department.
“If somebody’s sidewalk is damaged and it was the utility company or fiber company then they could contact us and we’ll have the process of contacting them through (the) Public Works Department,” Forney tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.
Most of the contractors completing construction projects in St. Joseph are not working for the city, according to Forney. He points out Missouri American Water is undergoing a huge project, replacing aging water pipes, many of which contain lead. Spire is also upgrading gas lines throughout the greater St. Joseph area. More than one company is working to install fiber optic cables.
“People get confused often when a utility company like a water line or fiber is getting put in. It’s not the city that actually does the work,” according to Forney. “We just oversee it to make that if the street is cut out or the sidewalk is cut, we’re kind of the fallback to make sure it’s put back properly.”
Forney says there is a lot of construction ongoing in St. Joseph as contractors replace aging infrastructure.
“We’ve got to continue to upgrade these things,” Forney says. “I know it’s frustrating, but I really appreciate everybody’s patience.”
One St. Joseph resident who contacted KFEQ complained of trash being left behind by a contractor after completing a project. He said other residents have had their property damaged during construction. The resident also said it was difficult to make a formal complaint to the city.
Forney suggests those with complaints either contact the Public Works and Transportation Department at 816-271-4653 or City Yards at 816-271-4848.
“Just communicate with us and we’ll figure it out,” Forney says.
You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.