City awards Temple parking-lot improvements contract to APAC Kansas for $325,677; contingency brings total authorization to $341,961

The Salina City Commission awarded a contract on Aug. 25 to APAC Kansas Inc. for repairs and improvements to the Temple parking lot, authorizing a project total not to exceed $341,961.17 including a 5% construction contingency.
Jim Kowatch, deputy director of public works and city engineer, said APAC submitted the low bid of $325,677.30 for an asphalt mill-and-overlay, pavement markings, new landscape beds, and replacement and repair of curbs and sidewalks at Santa Fe and Eighth Streets. Kowatch said the bid was below the city engineer’s estimate and that APAC performs a substantial amount of downtown work for the city.
Commissioners clarified maintenance responsibilities for the new planting beds. Mary Landis, representing the Temple, said the Temple will maintain the landscape beds and noted the plantings will not be irrigated, which reduces maintenance needs but requires manual watering in dry weather. City staff confirmed the project is funded by star-bond funds that are restricted to downtown public parking projects.
The commission approved the contract and authorized the city manager to execute the agreement following fulfillment of bid prerequisites; the motion passed 5-0.