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Council ratifies emergency culvert replacement on Antelope Drive after sinkhole formed
Summary
City authorized a contract for emergency replacement of a deteriorated corrugated metal culvert under Antelope Drive after a sinkhole formed; contractor J. A. Smith completed work for $81,126.30 and staff said the change to concrete culverts follows a consultant assessment.
Auburn City Council on Aug. 5 ratified an emergency procurement and replacement contract for a culvert on Antelope Drive between Thorpe Street and Cherry Street after staff found a sinkhole that damaged the road edge. The Council approved a contract with J. A. Smith for $81,126.30 to perform the work.
City staff said the problem was identified on or about July 5 after a report of damage to the bike lane; inspection revealed a substantial sinkhole and a corrugated metal culvert that had rusted through. Councilmembers commended staff for a rapid response and clear communication. A city staff speaker said, "The bottom of the culvert it rusted through completely," and staff explained the replacement used a non‑metallic solution; the city noted it is moving away from corrugated metal culverts under roadways.
Barge Design Solutions previously performed an assessment that recommended repair or replacement. Staff described temporary measures taken to stabilize the area, then engaged Barge Design Solutions and J. A. Smith to design and perform the permanent replacement. The city used emergency procurement provisions to expedite the work for health, safety and welfare reasons.
Staff reported the work began within about a week of the damage report and was finished before the university and K‑12 schools returned to session. Council members praised the speed of the response and the communication to residents in the area.
The Council approved the contract by voice vote. Staff said the assessment of nearby culverts will continue and additional repairs are expected as part of ongoing infrastructure maintenance.
