The Local Urban District (LUD) committee of Blumenort is planning for two major projects this summer. Chair Roger Harder says from a capital projects perspective, both are quite hefty.

One of those projects will see the further paving of Penner Drive South. Harder notes currently the paving ends just past the fire hall. The plan is to continue paving an additional quarter mile, bringing it to RTAC standard. Harder says this is in response to the growth of Blumenort to the south and will then provide a paved road all the way to the LUD boundary.

According to Harder, this project is estimated to cost around $90,000. Harder says he is hopeful the work can be completed by July but notes it could happen anytime between June and August.

The second project being planned for 2022 is the completion of a sidewalk from RockRidge Drive all the way to Penner Drive South.

"This is a bit of an exciting project as it allows a full loop of walking and/ or biking for active transportation," notes Harder.

The sidewalk addition will be about one-third of a mile in length. Harder says this project is estimated to cost about $75,000. He is hoping to see the work done in July or August.

The combined cost of these two projects is expected to be about $165,000, which is still less than half of the total budget this year for the LUD of Blumenort. Harder says their budget is about $395,000, an increase of about $20,000 over last year. He notes they also have some smaller projects planned for 2022, including some road improvements.

Even though their budget has increased, Harder says they will not be raising taxes on the LUD portion of their budget. The mill rate for the LUD of Blumenort will continue to be 4.255.