After emergency repairs of two downtown sewer structures, Tim Shutters, Construction Specialist VII, who helped manage the work, said he feels inspired by the efforts of Citizens employees, our contractors, and the community.
Three restaurants near the intersection of Maryland and Illinois, where Citizens crews discovered a collapsed manhole structure during routine inspections, supported construction workers throughout the repair. Steak ‘n Shake provided drinks continuously, Palomino baked fresh pizzas for workers on second shift, and Yard House handed out $5 gift cards to all on site.
“The restaurant managers thanked us for our hard work,” said Roger Hanas, Manager of Wastewater System Renewal, who also helped oversee the repairs. “They knew we had their best interest at heart. Everyone, from local businesses to contractors, wanted to be a part of the solution.”
Wilhelm Construction and Granite Construction provided personnel to help with the work very quickly. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department also was instrumental in the efforts, helping close down streets quickly and even providing a police escort for an excavator. Denison Parking, which manages several parking garages downtown, was proactive and easy to work with in ensuring vehicles could get in and out as needed.
Shutters interacted with close to 60 customers during the closures in July, answering questions about the repair efforts and Citizens’ larger projects, such as the DigIndy Tunnel System. He said he did not sense any negativity and appreciated the opportunity to share more about the work Citizens is doing for the community.
