Derby City Council approves $56K crack sealing project after competitive bidding process

The Derby City Council convened on March 25, 2025, to discuss several key infrastructure projects, including the 2025 asphalt pavement crack sealing and the 2025 water main replacement project.

The meeting began with a presentation by Tom Cotton regarding the annual asphalt pavement crack sealing initiative. Cotton emphasized the importance of crack sealing as a cost-effective measure to extend the life of city roads by preventing water infiltration. He reported that recent inspections identified specific roads, including Chet Smith and Woodlawn, as ideal candidates for this maintenance, with a Pavement Condition Index (PCI) score between 78 and 81.

Cotton detailed the bidding process for the crack sealing project, noting that the city received seven bids, with the lowest bid at 28 cents per linear foot, totaling $56,000. This bid was significantly lower than the highest bid of $390,000. Cotton explained that the bidding method focused on linear feet rather than weight, allowing for better cost control. After discussions with the vendor, Innovative Road Composites LLC, the council expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver quality work. A motion was made and passed unanimously to authorize the city manager to enter into an agreement with the vendor for the crack sealing project and to negotiate additional work up to a budget of $155,000.

Following the crack sealing discussion, Assistant Public Works Director Dylan Curtis presented the 2025 water main replacement project. He outlined the need to replace aging water lines that frequently break and cause service disruptions. The project targets two areas: Market Street and Crosswood/Springwood, where old, small-diameter pipes are prone to scaling and corrosion. Curtis highlighted the importance of replacing these lines before upcoming road reconstruction to avoid unnecessary damage to new pavement.

The council reviewed the bids for the water main project, with NoWAC Construction providing the lowest responsible bid of $784,598. Curtis noted that this bid was approximately $25 under budget, reflecting improved accuracy in cost estimates. A motion was made to authorize the execution of the agreement with NoWAC Construction, which also passed with support from council members who appreciated the collaboration with local contractors.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to maintaining and improving Derby's infrastructure through proactive measures in road maintenance and water line replacement. Both projects are set to enhance the longevity and reliability of essential city services, with further discussions anticipated as the projects progress.