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Downtown revitalization bids come in about three times higher than expected, staff say
Summary
City staff reported that bids for the downtown revitalization project were roughly triple engineer estimates, prompting a re-evaluation of the project while the city preserves budgeted funds that must be spent by 2026.
City staff told the Preston City Council that bids for the downtown revitalization project returned at about three times the anticipated cost, prompting staff to re‑evaluate scope and delivery options while keeping the project funds available.
Why it matters: The city has funds budgeted for downtown improvements that must be expended by 2026. Bids far exceeding estimates could delay improvements, require scope reduction, or prompt alternative procurement or funding approaches.
Details from staff City staff said contractor bids solicited through the city’s engineer came back much higher than anticipated — around three times the expected amount. Staff confirmed the money remains budgeted for the downtown project but said they will reevaluate the scope and pursue options to deliver some form of the project before the funding deadline.
Council response and next steps Council members expressed interest in pursuing a revised plan that fits the available budget and meets the 2026 expenditure deadline. Staff will explore alternatives — including re-scoping, rebidding, or staging work — and report back to council with recommendations.
Ending note: The downtown project remains active, but the city expects further staff recommendations on how to proceed given the higher-than-expected bid results.
