A delay in completing the work on Theota and Todd avenues in Hermitage has been a headache for residents, but has presented an opportunity for city officials.

When commissioners hired Utility Contracting Inc., Youngstown, to build a storm water detention pond at the east end of Theota, make storm water improvements on Todd and Theota, and pave both roads, they cut out similar work on North Crescent Drive because of a budget shortfall.

The delays occurred because Utility had to wait for Aqua Pennsylvania and National Fuel Gas to replace lines in the same area, and of Utility’s own making, officials said Thursday.

The work was not completed the last construction season and residents have had to deal with torn-up roads and mud over the winter.

“It’s very hard to defend when people’s yards are dug up and planted and dug up and people’s yards are mud,” said Commissioner Duane J. Piccirilli, who frequently drives through the area to and from his home on Cohasset Drive.

But, the delay also meant that the city had time to put $175,000 for the North Crescent work in the 2009 budget, and that money is now available.

Assistant City Manager Gary P. Gulla said the staff is recommending that Utility be hired to do the North Cresent work. He noted the company already has equipment in the area, and is willing to do the work for the price it bid last summer, $163,380.

Commissioner Tim Ruffo asked if the city couldn’t save money, especially in light of the down economy, by accepting new bids. Recent construction projects bid by the city came in under estimate.

Gulla said the staff considered that but felt the city could actually save money because it would not have to incur new engineering costs to draw up specifications or bid advertising fees.

Utility believes it can have the work done by May 31, which includes restoration of dug up yards.

Special Projects Director Ian Garfoli added that the water company needs to return to the area for restoration in areas that are not part of the Utility Contracting contract.

Commissioners will vote on the proposal Wednesday.