Mayor updates city projects, possible new location

MANCHESTER — It has been a banner week for the City of Manchester and Clay County, as local officials announced more than $4 million in funding and approvals aimed at improving infrastructure, expanding public spaces and strengthening essential services for residents.

City leaders credited support from Robert Stivers and Derek Lewis for helping secure the investments.

“On behalf of our city council and staff, we want to thank Senator Stivers and Representative Lewis for investing in our community and our future,” city officials said in a statement.

Among the largest projects is a $1.25 million investment to construct a new water line from the Quickie Market area down Horse Creek. Officials say the project will reduce leaks, improve reliability and minimize service disruptions for both residents and businesses.

In addition, the city will receive $1.5 million to relocate City Hall, the city garage and other municipal departments. The move is expected to improve accessibility for residents while also freeing up space to expand Rawlings and Stinson Park.

Infrastructure improvements will continue with the approval of engineering work for a new 100,000-gallon water storage tank near AdventHealth Manchester. The project is designed to strengthen the community’s water supply and ensure long-term reliability.

City officials also announced a $600,000 grant to replace approximately 2,000 outdated water meters. The upgrade builds on a previous $2 million investment made last year to improve the city’s water treatment plant and river pump systems.

Leaders emphasized that the projects go beyond infrastructure upgrades.

“These projects are about more than infrastructure,” the statement read. “They’re about improving daily life, supporting growth and creating a better future for our community.”

In addition to utility and facility improvements, the city is preparing to begin construction on a new park shelter at Rawlings and Stinson Park. The addition is expected to provide a gathering space for families, community events and recreational activities.