The City of Broussard moved to accept the South Bernard reconstruction project as substantially complete at its May 27 meeting, following a presentation from Joseph Marino of project consultant DDG.

Marino told the council South Bernard, between Main Street and U.S. 90, is open and that remaining punch-list items should be finished within weeks. He reported the final contract amount was $4,242,668.59, about $43,636.59 over the original contract of $4,000,199.32 — roughly a 1% overrun attributable to unforeseen conditions including conflict boxes and unstable subgrade that required ripping, replacement and chemical treatment.

Why it matters: The reconstruction widened lanes, added a new bridge, enclosed ditches and improved safety on a roadway used by heavy truck traffic and access to Leeta Park and other businesses.

Details from the meeting:
- Marino said remaining funds included a project funding balance of $459,628 and ~$431,266 due to the contractor, leaving about $28,000 available after contractor payment; incidental consultant and inspection fees of about $5,000 could be absorbed within that balance.
- The work was funded primarily by Capital Outlay; Broussard initially advanced matching funds and was expected to be reimbursed by Capital Outlay funding.
- Marino described tangible improvements: three travel lanes, a new wider bridge, and closed-in ditches to address safety concerns.

Discussion vs. decision: Council voted to approve the substantial completion recommendation (motion approved). Marino and staff said paperwork will follow to enable the mayor to sign the substantial completion certificate once punch-list items are closed.

Next steps: Contractor to complete punch-list items in the coming weeks; the mayor will sign the substantial completion certificate and final pay processes will be completed pending confirmation from the facility planning manager.