GUSTINE — The Gustine City Council on Feb. 17 will discuss proposed construction schedules for the long‑planned downtown roundabout at 5th Street and 4th Avenue, a project that has been delayed by funding constraints and survey work setbacks.

City Manager Melanie Correa and Project Manager Danny Reed will present three possible timelines for the council to consider before the project is released for bidding. The roundabout, funded through a 2021 CMAQ grant, is intended to improve traffic flow, pedestrian safety and ADA access in the city’s core.

According to city staff, the project plans are nearing completion and bid documents are being prepared. Construction is expected to last about 12 weeks, though staff noted that weather, underground utility conflicts, material availability and other field conditions could extend the timeline.

Work hours would run Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The project is expected to temporarily affect sidewalk access, parking availability and business entry points in the immediate area. Traffic detours will be required while the intersection is under construction, and staff said alternative access routes for businesses will need to be identified.

Because of those impacts, staff is seeking council direction before finalizing the schedule. Once a preferred timeline is selected, the city will hold another stakeholder meeting to share the updated plan and reiterate its commitment to maintaining foot‑traffic access to downtown businesses during construction.

There is no fiscal impact tied to the discussion item, though staff noted that delaying the project further could increase costs depending on market conditions for labor and materials.

The roundabout project aligns with the city’s strategic goal of community‑based development, with officials saying it will enhance the appearance of the downtown intersection and improve walkability once completed.

The council meets at 6 p.m. Feb. 17.