WEIRTON — The City of Weirton will be programming some additional street paving than what officials initially planned, after this year’s contract came in under budget.

Public Works Director Rod Rosnick discussed the additions with members of council, Tuesday, during an informational workshop held at the Weirton Municipal Building.

“Our paving bills came in lower than we anticipated,” Rosnick said, explaining the city had budgeted for a cost of $22 per yard, but received a bid of $17 per yard from Kelly Paving Inc.

Council, during its March 8 regular meeting, approved a contract with Kelly Paving in the amount of $859,280. Rosnick explained that price leaves approximately $250,000 still available for paving in the city.

Some additional projects are being handled in-house by Public Works crews, Rosnick said. He noted, however, he had received recommendations from council totaling $792,698 in additional paving.

“Council has to whittle that down,” he said.

Rosnick recommended using funds to complete paving of Sharon Drive and Palomino Drive, explaining both already are on the paving schedule, but with funds to only address a portion of the roads.

Ward 4 Councilman George Ash suggested dividing the funds by seven, with each ward receiving an equal amount.

City Manager Joe DiBartolomeo recommended council set a priority list.

“Everyone picks one street and see what that does,” he said, explaining some contingency funds could be used if needed. “You’re not going to be able to do all the roads.”

Rosnick said paving crews are scheduled to begin work in the city on April 1, requesting the additional paving be placed on the agenda of a special council meeting already scheduled for March 30.

(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com, and followed via Twitter @CHowellWDT)