Emergency repairs authorized to fix Sewickley road slope

A slope of a Sewickley road has deteriorated so much that it is in need of an emergency repair.

Borough engineer Mike Galet said there is no danger yet to properties along Dickson Road, but repairs can’t be put off any longer.

Council voted 8-0 on April 9 to authorize the engineer to move forward with designs and contact contractors, and for Borough Manager Donna Kaib to contract for the repairs without advertising, bidding or seeking price quotes.

Solicitor Nate Boring said the borough code permits skipping the aforementioned steps for emergencies, and that everything must be properly documented.

Going through the normal construction contract process could have delayed any progress for at least 60 to 90 days, officials said.

“It’s a top priority,” council Vice President Julie Barnes said. “I’m not aware of any incidents (on the roadway). We’re trying to prevent anything that would cause an incident.”

Galet said he will know more about what actually needs done now that council has approved the work .

Estimated project costs were not available.

The work area

The area in need of repair extends from about 928 Dickson Road east to its intersection with Miller Road at the hairpin and continues west along Miller Street to 923 Miller St. Galet said the work area is about 12,000 square feet and includes the parcels between the two roads.

Dickson Road remains open.

“Evidence of slope movement is portrayed along the undulating roadway with several patches over the years and leaning guide rails,” Galet said. “The slope between the roadways shows signs of recent movement and will continue to move over time. Our scope entails conducting exploratory digging and working directly with a contractor to reconstruct and stabilize the slope.

“Final remedial design will be determined in the field. … These repairs are to stabilize a slope that has not yet failed but has exhibited degradation over the recent two years.”