City of Newcastle

PROJECT PURPOSE

This project will construct a new lift-station and wastewater main for economic development purposes. The commercially zoned area in Newcastle is currently without wastewater service. The City of Newcastle has received numerous inquiries from commercial/retail developers regarding the available properties. However, the lack of wastewater service is a non-starter for these businesses. Missed revenue opportunities for the City of Newcastle is estimated at $750,000.00 to $1,000,000.00 annually.

EVIDENCE

Not applicable

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

Many of the Newcastle residents who are served by the wastewater system are lower income or fixed income groups, including assisted living residents, and apartment dwellers, many of whom are struggling due to lower incomes exacerbated by the pandemic and inflationary pressures. This project as part of an economic development strategy will assuredly provide future employment opportunities for many Newcastle residents as well as people from surrounding communities. Approximately 3000 cases (equaling 27% of Newcastle's population) of Covid-19 have been reported in Newcastle since the start of the pandemic which includes 22 deaths. Several businesses closed or significantly reduced operations during the height of the pandemic. Many of the Newcastle businesses are still trying to cope with labor shortages. This project provides an opportunity for Newcastle to attract commercial/retail development, capture untapped revenue, and create employment opportunities.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

Sullivan's Engineering will be contracted for design and engineer services, bidding processes, permitting, construction oversight, and performance reporting. City staff will be responsible for ensuring collection of required programmatic data, as well as compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act. A third-party vendor will administer financial transactions and documents.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma