TROUTMAN, N.C.(WHKY)  — Troutman leaders have authorized major road, water and sewer projects while delaying an easement decision connected to a proposed development that could bring hundreds of jobs.

Town Manager Justin Longino told the Town Council that bids for two utility projects came in below earlier estimates.

Council members approved a capital project ordinance for improvements near Main Street, Murdock Road and Old Mountain Road. Troutman has been awarded $3,546,901 through the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program, covering 80 percent of the projected cost. The town must provide the remaining 20 percent.

Plans include auxiliary through lanes, pedestrian signals, high-visibility crosswalks, upgraded curb ramps and realignment of Old Mountain Road.

The council also awarded the second phase of its Water Capacity Improvements Project and approved the Parkertown Road water extension. The work includes approximately 6,470 feet of new water main along U.S. 21 and will increase capacity for a new elementary school. A $2,753,000 state grant is funding the project.

Council members transferred $900,555 from the Water and Sewer Fund balance for a higher-capacity wastewater line between Shinn Farm and the Wiggins Road pump station.

The board also designated $3,825,000 already accumulated for expansion of Town Hall. Additional borrowing will be required after the project’s final scope and cost are determined.

Separately, the council voted 4-0 to delay action on relocating a sewer easement at Larkin Regional Commerce Park. The developer said the easement is the remaining obstacle to a project expected to create hundreds of jobs. The town’s wastewater committee is scheduled to review the matter.