Another resident claims damage due to GRGID waterline project

Gardnerville Ranchos resident Matt Triglia plans to file for damages he says the waterline improvement project construction caused on his property.

"They tore out all my shrubs, my trumpet vines and fencing," Triglia claims. "It is just so destructive."

The Gardnerville Ranchos General Improvement District has been replacing steel water pipes with plastic ones since May as part of a $3.2 million project.

The district realigned the waterline project on Arrowhead and Riverview drives in December and January, respectively, in order not to encroach on easements and disrupt years-old improvements, such as mature trees, fencing and landscaping.

The problem, according to District Manager Bob Spellberg, is that phone, cable, gas and sewer lines are installed on either side of roads in the Ranchos. This crowds the placement space, forcing the removal of some landscaping, fences and trees. Nearly 100 property owners were faced with such disruption, Spellberg said.

He said the project near Triglia's home on Topaz Lane has been done within legal boundaries.

"I don't know what he's using (to measure) for the centerline," Spellberg said. "But we are within 1 foot of being in the right-of-way.

"I am not sure what is going on there."

Triglia claims the district contractors, Rapid Construction, have been taking down fences, breaking tree branches, and "going overboard on our personal property. They could have used a smaller backhoe. It has been excessive."

Triglia plans to attend the GRGID board meeting this month to submit a claim for damages.

He said the former owner of his home worked for the Nevada Department of Transportation and correctly measured the property before he installed a fence.

"You'd think he would have done it right, but (GRGID) is within 33 inches of my property in one spot and 17 inches on the other side, and they are liable for the damages," Triglia said.