PHOTO BY BRENNA WHITE . THE VILLAGE REPORTER
FLOOD PROJECT … County Engineer Todd Roth explains the proposed drainage project to Bona Vesta, located in Pulaski Township.
By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The Williams County Commissioners met on March 26, 2026, to hear an update on the proposed Bona Vesta project, located in Pulaski Township.
County Engineer Todd Roth explained that the project builds on previous drainage improvements, including the installation of a tile system funded through a critical infrastructure grant.
While those efforts provided some relief, Roth noted that additional work is needed to better manage water flow.
The next phase of the project remains in its preliminary stages. It would focus on capturing and controlling overflow water through a ditch and flood mitigation structure.
“If we can capture this (overflow water), we can help in many ways and we can clean the water,” said Roth.
The project is expected to rely heavily on outside funding sources, including Clean Ohio Funds, H2Ohio funds, and capital budget allocations. Roth emphasized that pursuing grant funding is essential to moving the project forward.
“We have to pursue the funding or it will never happen,” he said. A key component of the project involves acquiring neighboring land currently owned by two separate property owners.
Roth indicated that acquiring the land is critical to the project and would strengthen grant applications.
Support for the project has been expressed by several local entities, including the Williams County Soil and Water Conservation District, Pulaski Township, the Williams County Health Department, and the City of Bryan.
The total projected cost of the project is estimated at $2.2 million, though Roth noted that figures remain preliminary and subject to change.
The proposed timeline for construction spans 2027 to 2028, depending largely on funding approvals.
If completed, the project is expected to benefit approximately 75 to 90 properties, including residential, commercial, and church properties in the affected area.