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Council told downtown street‑tree and sidewalk repair project will go to bid in September; some funding available
Summary
Public works staff said the downtown street‑tree and sidewalk replacement project is nearly ready for bidding with an objective to complete work before the holidays. Staff noted available tree stock has been procured and that a $200,000 downtown repair fund could supplement the project if bids exceed estimates.
Shelton staff told the City Council on July 22 that the downtown street‑tree replacement and sidewalk repair project is close to advertisement for bids and that staff aims to begin work before the holiday season.
Project scope and timing: staff said project specifications were revised and that the city intends to advertise in September with the hope of completing the work before Christmas. The procurement included early tree purchase because availability of the selected species and sizes was limited. Staff said they may need to supplement the project if concrete prices push bid totals above current estimates.
Safety and streetscape goals: staff characterized the project as primarily a safety project to remove and replace failing pear trees that have repeatedly lifted sidewalks. The consultant Jones and Jones previously recommended additional streetscape changes in a separate downtown vision plan; staff said the current procurement is a maintenance and safety project rather than a full streetscape reconfiguration that would widen sidewalks or remove a turn lane.
Budget and supplement: staff said a $200,000 downtown repair fund is available in the current budget and could be used to supplement the tree and sidewalk project if necessary.
Urban forestry notes: the city procured tree species chosen for durability (staff cited disease/ice resistance compared with older pear trees) and has watering and protection systems in place for young trees. Staff said most of the procured trees are in good condition and are being monitored for stress; a small number may require replacement.
No formal contract award occurred at the study session; staff will return with bid results and recommendations for contract award once the bidding and evaluation are complete.
