Board approves $13M construction bid for Lower Gulf sewer project

The City of Hot Springs Board of Directors made significant strides in infrastructure and community planning during their recent meeting on July 10, 2025. A key decision was the approval of a $13,183,721 bid awarded to Belt Construction Inc. for the construction of phases 2, 3, and 4 of the Lower Gulf of Gravity sewer capacity improvement project. This project aims to enhance the city's wastewater management system, addressing critical infrastructure needs.

Assistant Project Manager Joey Stadler presented the bid details, noting that the project will involve approximately 9,300 feet of 36-inch pipe and 4,600 feet of 30-inch fiberglass reinforced pipe. The project is part of the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality's compliance efforts and is funded by the board-approved 2025 wastewater bonds. Notably, the bid came in about $2.5 million lower than the engineer's original estimate, showcasing effective cost management and planning.

The timeline for the project is set at 600 days, with construction expected to begin shortly. This improvement is anticipated to significantly enhance the sewer capacity in the area, benefiting residents and businesses alike.

In addition to the sewer project, the board also discussed an ordinance to amend the zoning map for a property located at 413 Hammond Drive from residential to general commercial. This change aims to align the future land use map with community development goals, facilitating potential commercial growth in the area.

These decisions reflect the board's commitment to improving infrastructure and supporting community development, ensuring that Hot Springs continues to grow and thrive. As the city moves forward with these projects, residents can expect enhanced services and opportunities in the coming years.