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Residents and council seek clarity after single high bid for North Main streetscape project
Summary
A public commenter questioned a single $19.6 million bid for the North Main Street streetscape project after the city announced a $2 million grant; city staff said an alternate bid of about $15.6 million was also received and staff will review scope and next steps.
A public commenter asked the City Council for a status update after a single large bid opened for the North Main Street project and questioned how the city will use a recently awarded $2 million state grant amid a higher-than-expected bid.
Jackie Beyer told council she had seen reporting that Phase 1 of the streetscape had been estimated at about $12 million and said the bid opened that day for the "North Main Street" project was more than $19.6 million — roughly 63% higher than the prior public estimate. Beyer asked whether the bid covered a different scope, whether inflation or scope creep explained the difference, whether lack of competition contributed, whether the project labor agreement affected price, and how grant funds would be used.
City Manager Jeff Jurgens said staff opened bids that day and noted the work included an alternate bid allowing extra time, which came in lower at about $15.6 million. He said staff are reviewing the bids and will meet to determine whether scope changes or other steps are needed before making a recommendation to the council.
The city did not announce a final award; staff said further evaluation will follow and the council and community will be informed of recommendations and next steps.
