Columbus approves $29K contract with Blue Ridge Paving and Grading

COLUMBUS—After discussing the need to resurface Catherine Drive in the Holly Hill subdivision for a couple of months, the Town of Columbus awarded a contract to Blue Ridge Paving and Grading. 

Columbus Town Council met last week and approved the contract for $29,350. 

Council tabled the awarding of the contract last month after receiving two bids. One bidder has done work for the town previously, but was not as low as Blue Ridge Paving and Grading. The town decided last month to get references on Blue Ridge prior to awarding the contract. 

Last week, town manager Tim Barth said he spoke with the City of Saluda who has used Blue Ridge on several occasions and they are happy with their work. Barth also said Blue Ridge has done several paving jobs at the Cliffs of Glassy as well. 

“I wouldn’t imagine they would be doing much work at the Cliffs if they didn’t do a good job,” Barth said. 

Barth also said Saluda officials indicated that Blue Ridge is good about talking before getting started. He said the intersection of Catherine Drive and Patrick has a low spot for drainage and he is hoping to speak with the contractor prior to the work beginning so they can fix that issue. 

Councilman Mark Phillips said there is no negative feedback, Blue Ridge is cheaper and that could give the town another company to work with. 

Councilman Robert Williamson said he would like for Blue Ridge to look at Courthouse Street while they are in town. Williamson said near the Doughboy statue is a safety hazard. 

Councilman Richard Hall asked why the Doughboy statue is lit from the rear and not the front. Hall said the flag should be lit when you drive by and instead there is a silhouette of the statue. Town employees said they would take a look at the statue to see if a light could be put in the front.