Summitt Street Storm Damage Repair

• Project typeRoad Repair
• Project value$566,705
• Contractor nameFred Smith Company

What’s Happening and Why It Takes Time

We know many of you have been asking about Summit Street repairs. Here’s an update on what’s happened, why it’s taken time, and what’s next.

What Happened?

Tropical Storm Chantal made landfall in South Carolina on July 6, 2025, and impacted North Carolina shortly thereafter. The storm brought significant rainfall and flooding to the region, particularly affecting cities and towns in central North Carolina. In Carthage, the small creek running under Summit Street swelled dramatically and overwhelmed the culvert drains beneath the road, washing out the foundation and causing the asphalt to fail.

Since then, Town officials have been working diligently with civil engineers and state partners to assess the damage and develop a plan for repairs. We understand this has been a long process, and we appreciate your patience. Here’s why it takes time—and why these steps matter.

Why the Delay?

Major infrastructure repairs involve more than replacing pavement. After the storm:

• Damage Assessment: Engineers had to inspect the site and determine the safest, most durable solution.

• Funding Process: Governor Josh Stein requested federal disaster relief from FEMA in August. In September, the federal government approved $32 million for recovery efforts, and Carthage received confirmation on September 30.

• Compliance and Oversight: To use disaster relief dollars, we must follow strict state and federal guidelines, including inspections and documentation. These steps protect taxpayers and ensure the Town remains financially sound.

If we had paid for this repair immediately from local funds, it would have cost taxpayers over half a million dollars. By following the FEMA process, we can use disaster relief dollars instead.

Repair Options Considered

Two options were evaluated for Summit Street:

• Option 1: Install two 54-inch drainage pipes (similar to what was in place before the storm).
• Option 2: Install a box culvert, which offers greater capacity and durability.

After careful review, the Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on November 17, 2025, to install box culverts at a cost of $566,705. This solution is designed to withstand future storms and provide a long-term fix.

Why Federal Assistance Matters

Carthage is a small town with a limited budget. Projects of this scale can strain local resources, which is why disaster relief funding is critical. By leveraging these programs, we can complete essential repairs without placing an undue burden on taxpayers.

What’s Next?

We are finalizing a contract with the Fred Smith Company and coordinating with our State inspector to ensure compliance and funding. Construction will begin as soon as possible, and we will keep residents informed every step of the way.

To view the quotes for this project, please see the documents linked in the column to the right. If you have questions, please contact the Carthage Public Works Director. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to restore Summit Street and strengthen our infrastructure for the future.