Council approves $124,180 change order to fix drainage/design error on West Main sidewalk project

The Statesboro Mayor and Council approved a $124,180 change order Sept. 2 for the ENG-122K West Main Street sidewalk project to correct a design error that has resulted in standing water in the street during heavy rain.

Staff explanation: Staff said the original design did not place a catch basin in a portion of the curb line, which left water standing in the roadway. Staff said they are challenging the design firm regarding the error and that the city may bear some cost responsibility, but the change order is needed to correct the issue without undoing completed work.

Funding: Staff recommended funding the change order from TSPLOST (Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) funds; the transcript referred to the funding source in shorthand. The change order will add the necessary drainage features to the project.

Council action: The council approved the change order after staff described the problem and the need to correct the drainage to avoid standing water in heavy rain. Staff said they will continue discussions with the design firm about responsibility.

Why it matters: The change order addresses a constructed safety and drainage issue on West Main Street and is intended to prevent recurring standing water in the roadway during storms.