The summer of 2008 could see the start of work on the Elm Street Sub-division in the west end of Portage la Prairie.

Last night, City Council approved the $87,000.00 bid by Cochrane Engineering to provide design services for the project. It had been delayed several weeks after questions were raised about its necessity.

Councillor Dave Quinn notes Cochrane had the lowest bid, which was a factor in their decision. He says they're bound by provincial legislation to accept the lowest bid, unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Quinn adds they've had satisfactory dealings with Cochrane in the past. He hopes to see work on the sub-division begin in the summer of 2008.

Quinn points out the design work is necessary to determine the project's composition.