Rebuilding the Toledo area’s infrastructure is an opportunity for the city of Toledo to set an example for communities across the country.

The intellectual resources (engineering and architecture firms, along with the University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University) available in this area are capable of developing a master plan and engineering designs that could be implemented by a local construction manager and built by local contractors.

The plan should include coordinating the replacement of underground and overhead utilities with replacement of streets, curbs, and sidewalks. The goal is to sequence the work so that newly paved streets aren’t torn up to install underground work that should have been done prior to street paving. This plan should include public input and be posted on a website.

The candidates for mayor and city council should include infrastructure rebuilding as part of their campaign platform strategy. The successful candidates should do research and find federal and state money to implement their plan. Government financing is available to entities that have a master plan in place prior to those that don’t.

There are engineering and architectural firms locally that are experienced in complicated projects. Highway and road construction are happening all around us.

This is an awesome opportunity for Toledo to become a leader and differentiate itself from other communities.

JAY LINGNELL

Yosemite Drive

First Published May 21, 2017, 4:00 a.m.