Commission approves DOT payment-option amendment for Third Street Bridge preservation grant

City Engineer Brett Runde briefed the commission on Amendment 2 to the 2021 Big Preservation Grant (agreement number 717610) for the Third Street Bridge project. Runde said the amendment modifies the payout option so the South Dakota Department of Transportation can pay a larger portion of grant funds upon receipt of signed construction contracts, reducing invoicing and processing steps.

Runde said the project was bid this year and construction is scheduled for next year; the amendment applies to the 2021 agreement among the two grants the city received and is intended to streamline payments for consultant fees and contract-related expenses. Staff recommended approval and requested authorization for the mayor to sign the amendment. The commission approved the authorization by roll-call vote.

Why it matters: the amendment changes the mechanics and timing of grant disbursement for a multimodal bridge preservation project, which the engineer said will reduce administrative processing time and allow better cash-flow management during construction next year.

Next steps: mayoral signature to finalize the amendment and proceed with contract execution and project administration.