The first phase of Tomball’s alley improvement project will begin soon after Tomball City Council approved a contract with Hassell Construction Group LLC for the project at its May 15 meeting.

The bid was approved as part of the consent agenda, on which items are approved with one motion without discussion.

The big picture: The alley improvement project, in the works since at least last year, aims to improve the alleyways to be more walkable and add an additional public restroom to downtown Tomball, Community Impact previously reported.

The city will be taking care of the hardscape work, such as the utilities, concrete and asphalt work, while the Tomball Economic Development Corp. will be responsible for the amenities and beautifying the alleyways, according to previous reporting.

The details: The project will cost no more than $1.58 million.

  • 100 blocks north and south: $1.01 million
  • Brick edging: $52,743.15
  • 200 block north: $343,836.67
  • Pocket park and restroom: $177,000

What’s next: A construction timeline was not outlined in the contract, according to the agenda packet.

Other council items:

  • Council Member Derek Townsend was voted mayor pro tem at the May 15 meeting. Council Member John Ford previously held the position.