2019 promises to be another busy year for City of Gastonia employees. Here are the Top 10 things to be aware of:
- FUSE project construction begins
After years of meetings, architect’s sketches and underground utility work, the Franklin Urban Sports and Entertainment district will become more tangible in 2019. Construction will start this summer. Opening is scheduled for 2021.
- Water plant opening
The City’s renovated and upgraded water treatment plant on Long Avenue will be completed in 2019. The $60 million investment uses a membrane treatment process, the first of its kind in the state. Water from the plant will serve 100,000 customers in Gastonia and seven other municipalities.
- Two Rivers Utilities regionalization
In 2019, the South Fork Sewer Project will be completed, bringing all wastewater from McAdenville and Pharr Yarns to TRU facilities. A supplemental water interconnection will be constructed with Bessemer City and an emergency wastewater interconnection will be completed with Dallas.
- Developing a leadership academy
The Human Resources Department will begin a new program in March for interested employees to learn new leadership and management skills to assist with professional and personal growth.
- Revamping the City's monthly financial report
- Implementing a new evaluation system for City employees, including supervisor training
- Expanding and improving City employee recruitment and retention efforts
- Launching an app for City transit routes
- Completing the Parks and Recreation Master Plan
- Continued economic development with more businesses and restaurants coming to Downtown
