Decorah City Council approves $180K chip seal project using Minnesota methods

The Decorah City Council meeting on April 7, 2025, focused on the approval of plans and specifications for the 2025 chip seal project, marking the first such initiative in over 30 years. The public hearing, which was required by law, did not receive any comments or objections from the community.

The proposed project involves applying a chip seal across various locations in Decorah. This method differs from traditional practices in Iowa, as it follows Minnesota specifications. The contractor will apply a sealant over the aggregate, allowing for immediate traffic flow, which helps embed the aggregate into the emulsion. This approach aims to reduce dust and improve the overall quality of the finished surface compared to the Iowa Department of Transportation's method.

The city received a single bid from Farner Asphalt Sealers of Wisconsin for approximately $180,000, which was about 21% higher than the engineer's estimate. The increase was attributed to unexpected costs related to mobilization and traffic control, as well as partial depth patching. However, the chip seal application itself was priced lower than anticipated, making it a cost-effective option compared to a full mill and overlay.

Additionally, the project includes a partnership with Winneshiek County, which will reimburse the city $7,850 for work on Locust Road. The council unanimously approved the resolution to award the contract for the chip seal project, signaling a significant step forward in the city's infrastructure improvements.