Wausau Board of Public Works recommends sidewalk and street contracts, approves engineering oversight for Abel lift station and votes to enter closed session

The Wausau Board of Public Works on Monday, March 17 approved multiple procurement recommendations, authorized construction engineering oversight for a stormwater lift station and voted to go into closed session to consider prequalification statements for two construction projects.

The board voted to accept the low bid for the 2025 Sidewalk Repair Project A from S. D. Ellenbecker in the amount of $238,782. Two other bids were announced during the meeting: Pembroke ($259,725.25) and Patricus ($275,232.50). A board member moved to approve the low bidder and a second board member supported the motion; the voice vote was recorded in favor.

Board members also recommended awarding the 2025 Construction Project B — covering Fulton Street, First Street, River Drive and Second Street — to Switlik and Sons. The low bid reported at the meeting was $3,113,313. Board members noted that a related reallocation of funds was considered by the finance committee last week and that final contract execution requires city council approval next week; the board’s recommendation was approved by voice vote.

The board approved Amendment No. 1 to the agreement with Strand Associates for rehabilitation work at the Abel Stormwater Pumping Station. The amendment was described in the meeting as adding construction oversight services — including periodic site visits, shop-drawing review and electrical panel/board review — by the original design engineer. The amendment was stated as not-to-exceed $75,000 and described as covering up to 200 hours; staff said the city will pay only for hours verified and billed by the consultant. A motion to approve the amendment passed by voice vote.

Finally, the board moved to go into closed session “pursuant to section 19.85(d) of the Wisconsin Statutes” for the purpose of considering and deliberating on prequalification statements for the Equiflow Lehi service line replacement and the 2025 Public Safety Building chiller replacement projects. The motion and second passed on a voice vote and the board entered closed session.

The board handled the items as recommendations and contract approvals for execution by staff where noted; several actions are contingent on further approvals. The construction Project B award is contingent on the city council’s forthcoming vote and any necessary fund transfers described by the finance committee.