Council authorizes bids for Madera Gardens complete-streets resurfacing and safety upgrades

The Corte Madera Town Council voted to authorize the interim public works director to advertise for bids and to award a construction contract for the Madera Gardens Complete Streets program, with a base‑bid authorization not to exceed $3,250,000 plus a 10% contingency.

Interim Public Works Director Chris Good summarized the scope: grind-and-overlay pavement on most neighborhood streets, micro‑surfacing on a few recently paved stretches, ADA curb‑ramp upgrades at crossings, sidewalk repairs and traffic‑calming measures such as bulb outs and a mountable traffic circle at the Lakeside/Mohawk intersection. Good said the project includes stormwater measures designed to avoid a net increase in runoff where new impervious surfaces are added.

Good explained the project’s updated cost estimate (approximate total $3.28 million including contingency and testing) exceeded an earlier staff budget ($2.2 million) because the current plan adds more complete‑streets components than the earlier, smaller resurfacing program. Funding sources listed in staff materials include ongoing local pavement funds and grants; the council authorized advertising and contract award to the lowest responsive bidder with the stated budget cap.

Council members supported the work, discussed options to simplify features if bids come in high, and emphasized the town’s interest in streetscape details such as plantings and surface treatments; staff said some decorative or planting elements have trade‑offs (watering, long‑term maintenance) but that corners and painted safety treatments remain options.

The vote to authorize bidding and contract award passed on roll call; staff will return with a notice of award and begin construction pending permits and scheduling.