Council reviews Kelly Place stormwater bid and seeks $215,883 capital amendment; low bid recommended at about $1.966 million

City staff told the council the low construction bid for the Kelly Place stormwater improvements project came in above the budgeted amount, prompting a request to amend the 2025 capital budget.

Public works staff reported the low bid from Speedway Sand & Gravel at $1,965,883; the council discussed a revised capital budget amendment request of $215,883 (down from an earlier larger request) and a recommended project contingency of $50,000. Staff said the public works committee recommended approval of the bid and the finance committee approved the contingency level and recommended authorizing the city administrator to use fund balance of up to $110,000 if necessary to close any remaining gap before later borrowing or refinancing options are available.

Brad and other public works staff described the project as a significant stormwater and public-realm investment that will include walking paths, interpretive kiosks and usable green space while addressing erosion and water-quality concerns at the site. Staff said the project scored highly in the competitive Dane County urban water quality grant program; the city expected approximately $1,150,000 in grant funding for the work, which reduced the borrowing need in the city's capital plan.

Council members approved moving the budget amendment and contract award forward for final action; the capital amendment and contract award were presented as items for second-reading/action at a future meeting. Staff said project documents and concept drawings will be posted to the city website once the project is formally approved.