City Allocates $10.8M for Construction, Contract Comes in at $9.5M

Bend City Council has made significant strides in managing its construction budget, as revealed in the recent meeting held on August 6, 2025. The council announced that the construction contract for a major project came in well under the allocated funding, with a total budget of approximately $10.8 million. The contract was awarded for about $9.5 million, leaving a substantial surplus.

In addition to the construction contract, the council is considering potential contract changes amounting to $500,000, which can be approved by the city manager. This flexibility allows for adjustments based on unforeseen circumstances that may arise during construction.

The council highlighted that after accounting for previously spent amounts on alternatives analysis and design, there remains around $58,000 for engineering services and potential design changes. This careful financial management ensures that the total projected costs remain significantly below the initial estimates.

A key question raised during the meeting concerned the allocation of the remaining funds. Council members discussed whether the surplus of approximately $800,000 would be returned to the transportation construction fund, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in budget management.

This proactive approach to budgeting not only reflects the council's commitment to fiscal responsibility but also positions Bend for future infrastructure improvements. As the project progresses, the council will continue to monitor expenditures and make necessary adjustments to ensure the community benefits from efficient use of public funds.