BLAND — Bland officials hope to have new asphalt installed next spring as preparations continue for the remaining work on the city’s street project after their Oct. 12 meeting of their board of aldermen.

Rodney Turner, public works director, reported at the monthly meeting that the city’s portion of the curb work was nearly complete.

The project engineer was obtaining updated prevailing wage information for review and approval. Once that process is finished, officials expect to seek contractor bids for the remaining improvements.

Plans include additional curb and storm drainage work before paving.

Turner expressed hope that favorable winter weather would allow the preparation to be completed in time for asphalt work in April or May.

The schedule remains dependent on weather, bidding and contractor availability.

Officials also discussed hiring an additional worker next spring to help the city’s two-person crew handle the workload.

“We got two guys, and it’s a big job,” Turner said.

Other road repairs may have to wait until next year. Turner said contractors contacted about additional work this season were already occupied with existing projects.