The board approved a $96,700 contract for United Consulting to complete the design to widen International Drive from South Boundary Patrol Road to Indiana 265, along with a $69,775 contract for Louisville Water Co. to design and install a system to monitor water pressures, tank levels, loss of power and provide automated management of River Ridge’s water system.

The board also approved a $51,550 contract for a proposal from Redwing Ecological Services Inc. to complete stream mitigation permit documents for about 300 acres at River Ridge.

“Despite a challenging business and working environment due to the global pandemic, our staff and board are continuing to make progress redeveloping the park,” Acy said in the release. “These investments will support additional growth and ensure River Ridge remains a great home for local, regional and national businesses.”

Acy noted that the River Ridge Development Authority is considered an essential operation due to its support of companies and the water system, and it supports essential businesses such as fulfillment centers, food processing, pharmaceuticals and water bottling, he said.

He said the River Ridge Development Authority staff is following guidelines regarding social distancing, and employees can work full-time or part-time from home depending on their individual job responsibilities. Although companies such as automotive suppliers in the commerce park have recently cut back scheduling and staffing, he does not know of any closures in the park related to the coronavirus pandemic.

“As far as the park is concerned, the companies are pretty well self-contained in the buildings they operate out of, and we don’t have the oversight for compliance,” he said. “I think all the companies, from the communication we have had, have specific guidelines for employees, and it appears that everyone is trying do their part and do the right thing.”