YOUNGSTOWN — The city’s board of control is expected Thursday to award a nearly $16 million contract for significant improvements to several downtown streets — including Front, Commerce and Federal — through 2023.

“This is a huge undertaking,” said Charles Shasho, deputy director of public works. “We’re going to be very busy. It’s going to be transformational.”

Two companies submitted proposals for the work with Marucci and Gaffney Excavating Co. of Youngstown turning in the apparent low bid of $15,791,100. The other proposal of $18,350,000 came from S.E.T. Inc. of Lowellville.

The city had estimated the project to cost $18,390,500.

After discussing the proposal with Marucci and Gaffney, Shasho said: “I’m very happy with the price. We had a pre-award meeting and we’re confident about the price. They’re comfortable with it. We’ll recommend award (to board of control) for Thursday and we’ll move forward from there.”

Read details about the project and how it will affect your commute in Monday’s Vindicator.