City Council approves $1.96M utility and concrete repair project for 2025 transit improvements

The Cedar Rapids City Council convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss several key projects aimed at improving city infrastructure and accessibility. The meeting began with the approval of a resolution, signaling the council's readiness to move forward with various initiatives.

The first major topic addressed was the report on bids for the 2025 Transit Stop Improvements Project, which has an estimated cost of $190,000. Doug Wilson from the Public Parks Department presented the project, which aims to enhance accessibility at 11 transit stops across the city. Each stop will feature new boarding pads, benches, and shelters equipped with solar-powered lighting. The bid date for this project was March 26, 2025, and five bids were received, ranging from approximately $139,000 to $187,000. Wilson noted that a recommendation to award the contract will be presented at a future council meeting.

Following this, Ken DeKeyser reported on the bids for the Advanced FCS Grading Utility and Concrete Repair Project, estimated at $1,960,000. This project encompasses four scopes of work, including storm sewer modifications around City Hall, repairs to the river wall and railing, and environmental remediation at the former park and ride site on Eighth Avenue. The work is necessary to prepare the site for future levy improvements by the Corps of Engineers. Five bids were opened on April 2, with amounts ranging from approximately $1.1 million to $2.6 million. The Public Works Department recommended awarding the project to Eastern Iowa Excavating and Concrete.

Both resolutions were moved and seconded by council members, with the council voting in favor of the Advanced FCS project. The meeting concluded with no further questions from council members, indicating a smooth progression through the agenda items.

Overall, the council's discussions highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance public infrastructure and ensure accessibility for Cedar Rapids residents, with further actions expected in upcoming meetings.