Columbus Officials Plan for Replacement of James Street

Columbus officials are getting ready to plan the replacement of James Street, the major east / west artery through the downtown. Although the projected construction is five years away, City Administrator Boyd Kramer and Mayor Bob Link are urging the Council to begin budget and policy talks on the project. Kraemer recently informed the Council that James Street – the route for highways 16 and 60 through Columbus – is approved for 2015 construction. Link asked the Council to look ahead at needs associated with the repair of the major thoroughfare, as there would be costs beyond the street and utility repairs that the City would have to face. The project will be on of the major discussion items as the council begins discussions on the 2010 budget during the first of four special meetings this Wednesday.