In a recent government meeting, city staff presented a comprehensive plan to address structural issues with a drainage wall that has been deemed inadequate due to poor design and lack of drainage. The wall, which is situated near exposed utilities, posed significant challenges for access and repair. As a result, the city engaged outside resources to devise a cleanup and repair strategy.

City crews have already begun preliminary work, including dismantling the damaged wall. However, it was determined that the project would exceed the city’s spending authority, necessitating a bidding process. The city contracted Meshach and Associates to design a new wall that would be moved one foot away from the utilities, allowing for better access and potential cost savings.

The project design was completed in August, and bids were opened on September 26, with Ellis Concrete Construction submitting the lowest bid of $196,700. This bid includes a $50,000 allowance for unforeseen expenses, acknowledging the unknown conditions that may arise during excavation.

City officials highlighted the importance of utilizing an existing annual contract with Meshach and Associates, which expedited the engineering design process and allowed for quicker progression to construction. Funding for the project is secured from the stormwater fund, and staff recommended awarding the contract to Ellis Concrete Construction, citing positive references from previous projects across the state.

The council is expected to approve the contract, which will facilitate necessary repairs to the drainage wall and improve the overall infrastructure in the area.