New Hope Celebrates Completion of Public Works Expansion

Posted on 11/06/2024

The City of New Hope celebrated the official completion of its expanded public works facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 30. Mayor Kathi Hemken, along with members of the City Council, Public Works Director Bernie Weber, and the entire New Hope Public Works staff, participated in the ceremonial event.

Initially constructed in 1979, the facility houses 25 employees and nearly 200 pieces of equipment, including heavy-duty trucks. The expansion project, which cost $6.7 million, was carried out in two phases over multiple years without bonding.

The City Council approved the preparation of plans for the project in early 2021. Phase 1 began that same year and was completed early in 2022. This phase included significant improvements such as security upgrades, the construction of a 3,000-square-foot detached soil storage building, stormwater enhancements and interior renovations, including upgrades in the mechanic's bay.

In May 2023, the Council authorized Phase 2 of the expansion, with construction commencing in the spring of 2024. Perhaps the most noticeable piece of the expansion, this phase included constructing a 20,000-square-foot addition, allowing for the interior storage of all equipment and vehicles. Additional improvements include a new fuel dispensing system, the installation of electric vehicle charging stations and pavement replacement.

During its meeting on Oct. 28, the New Hope City Council proclaimed Oct. 30, 2024, as Public Works Day in the City of New Hope. The proclamation commemorates the opening of the Public Works facility and acknowledges the vital services its dedicated employees provide.