A Day in the Caretakers' Life - A New Driveway
Leslie Bridger
By Leslie Bridger
On Monday, March 4, 2013, I received a call from Alex of Rock Hard Paving. His company had just finished laying an asphalt driveway at a neighbor's property, and he had two truckloads of surplus asphalt.
He had seen that Meher Mount's driveway was in disrepair and offered to lay the asphalt, including all grading and preparation, for a discounted price of $2.90 per square foot.
I immediately called Board Chair Sam Ervin to share the proposal as it seemed legitimate. We both consulted other experts to assist us technically with the decision.
Sam then spoke with Alex negotiating the price down to $2.50 per square foot. We felt this was a good deal. Sam then consulted with Board, and it was decided to proceed.
Alex was instructed to lay down one load only, after which we would review the situation. This was completed rapidly and efficiently with state-of-the-art equipment.
After laying down the first load of asphalt, Sam again spoke with Alex who quoted a price of $4,000 to lay down the second, larger load of asphalt. The price was negotiated down to $3,500.
The work was completed by noon. The new surface was sealed free of charge. The total area covered was approximately 3,000 square feet and ended approximately 10 yards short of the "ring road."
All in all a good job, and I believe a fair price for the quality of the work. The total cost to Meher Mount was $7,500.
THE COMPLETED DRIVEWAY with new asphalt. (Leslie Bridger photo, March 2013.)