The McLeod County Board on Tuesday approved hiring Apex Engineering Group to prepare plans and permits for improvements to the Lake Marion boat landing at a cost not to exceed $44,559, to be covered by a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources grant.

County staff said the DNR funds will support reconstruction of the access parking area, installation of parking spaces compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, creation of an aquatic invasive species removal area and stormwater treatment. Three firms submitted proposals; staff reviewed and scored them on technical competence, project approach, schedule and team qualifications and selected Apex Engineering as the highest-scoring firm.

Staff proposed construction in late summer and early fall of the next construction season. Commissioners approved the contract by voice vote. The project will move to design and permitting with Apex and then to bidding and construction once permits are obtained and schedules set.