New London laying groundwork for major 2026 project
By David Jacobs
New London's government is presenting proposed plans for an estimated $2 million infrastructure improvement project that would, in 2026, reconstruct sidewalks, curbs, and roadway surfaces along two key state routes.
“The village is proposing to reconstruct the curbs, curb ramps, and sidewalks along State Route 162 from Energy Place to James Street and along State Route 60 from Prospect Street to the CSX railroad tracks,” Village Administrator Shawn Pickworth stated in a newly written letter to village residents.
"Additional work includes the resurfacing of State Route 162 and State Route 60 within the village limits, light replacements, crosswalk improvements, and sidewalk furniture," he detailed.
The village website states:
-- This project is currently expected to cost approximately $2 million, including design, right-of-way acquisition, and construction costs.
-- Funding will come from an assortment of local match, federal, and state resources.
The purpose of this project is to address the deteriorating condition of the roadway, sidewalks, and curbs within the project area, Pickworth said.
"This deterioration poses potential hazards to both pedestrians and vehicle travelers alike," a project overview on the village website states. "Additional concerns include the deteriorating crosswalks and on-street parking spots, some of which are faded and are only partially visible. If left unaddressed, these conditions in the roadway and sidewalk will only worsen with time."
A public meeting is scheduled 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. May 1 at the Lovell U. Hileman Community Building in an open house format.
Pickworth said the village encourages community involvement before the 2026 construction season.
“Public input is an important part of the project development process and provides valuable feedback that helps guide decision-making through all phases of development.”
Construction is tentatively expected to begin in June 2026.
“Project costs are currently estimated at approximately $2,000,000,” Pickworth specified in his letter.
“To ensure the proposed project is viable and successful, we are asking all those interested to attend and participate in this public meeting,” Pickworth stated. “We want your comments regarding the social, environmental, and economic impacts of this proposed project.”
The village is also seeking information about conditions within the project area.
“Additionally, we would appreciate any information you may have on the existence of cultural resources (archaeological, historic, architectural), ecological resources (streams, wetlands, etc.), or hazardous materials (dump sites, underground and above ground storage tanks, etc.) within the project area," Pickworth detailed.
Pickworth stated that “a small amount of temporary and permanent right-of-way will be required from properties adjacent to the project area.” He noted that “if right-of-way acquisition is needed from your property, a real estate representative will reach out to you individually in early 2026.”
All materials presented during the public meeting will also be available at the Village Offices. A link to a comment form is on the village of New London website — https://www.newlondonoh.com
They also can be submitted via email, phone, or mail with those details on the website as well.
“Additional notices and coordination with business owners will occur prior to construction,” Pickworth notes.
On the village website homepage, a link marked in red — “New London Sidewalk Improvement Project” — provides more information, including further project details.
Pickworth’s letter is also posted.