Council awards $554,055 contract to TK Concrete for airport entry road project

The Ames City Council voted Monday to approve plans, specifications and a $554,055 contract to TK Concrete Inc., of Appelle, Iowa, to rebuild the remaining sections of Airport Drive in the Airport Entry Improvement project for 2024–25.

City staff said the work will replace worn asphalt and curbing that remained after construction of a new terminal and will include stormwater and site work to complete the main airport entry. “This is the remaining pieces of Airport Drive that are old that need to be replaced,” said city engineer Damian, answering council questions about the project’s scope and access during construction. He said the work will be phased so that the airport entrance remains open throughout construction and that a granular temporary drive will provide access around closed sections.

Bids came in lower than consultant estimates, staff said, in part because municipal construction pricing has improved. Council then approved the resolution awarding the contract to TK Concrete Inc. in the amount of $554,055; the motion passed on a roll call vote.

Why it matters: Rebuilding the entry road completes the airport’s site work started when the terminal was replaced in 2017 and provides a safer, refreshed entrance for travelers and service vehicles. City staff said bids were within available budget and the project schedule will include exterior finishing, paving and fall seeding.

Council action: Resolution approving plans and awarding contract to TK Concrete Incorporated, Appelle, Iowa, for the base and alternate bid, $554,055. Vote: roll call; motion approved.