Johnston REC Parking Lot News

Storm Sewer Repairs to Soon Be Made
Last week it was discovered that the concrete above the storm sewer in the Johnston Regional Education Center parking lot is sinking. We have put up barricades around this area of the parking lot to prevent further damage to the area. Because the storm sewer falls under the city of Johnston’s jurisdiction, we are working with the City to repair the area around the sewer. At this point we do not know when the City will be able to repair the parking lot, but city officials have told us we are on their priority list. Once the repairs begin, some parking spaces will be unavailable for a period of time. We don’t know yet how long the repairs will take, but we will let staff members know when they are slated to begin. We apologize for the inconvenience and would appreciate your patience while we work to make these necessary repairs.

Parking Lot Expansion Currently Not Feasible
Last fall and winter, the 6500 Planning Committee solicited feedback from staff members about improvements that could be made to the Johnston Regional Education Center. As a result, staff members provided feedback to expand the building’s parking lot to accommodate higher demand as a result of increased professional development offerings. We want staff members to know that your recommendations for expanded parking spaces were heard and research was done about the possibility of a parking lot expansion.

In order for an addition to be added to the parking lot, the City of Johnston Planning and Zoning Commission would require the Agency to bring the parking lot up to current storm drainage code. In order do this, Heartland would have to install an underground drainage tank and an improved drainage system which, unfortunately, exceeds the budget capacity for this phase of improvements to the facility. However, two sections of broken concrete in the parking lot will be repaired to improve parking lot safety. As an alternative, please remember that there are extra parking spaces available at the 6445 Administration Center and that street parking is available along Corporate Drive.

The feedback received from staff is appreciated, and the parking lot will be a priority during the next phase of the Johnston REC improvements, which we hope to address in the next few years depending upon the economic outlook and state budget.