Smithfield awards $3.67M contract to Park Construction for West Smithfield sewer improvements; town to cover shortfall

The Town of Smithfield Council approved awarding the West Smithfield Sewer Improvements project to Park Construction, the apparent low bidder at $3,669,462.

Staff said the town received a $2.7 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) but was required to provide a local match. The project scope replaces roughly 6,300 linear feet of gravity sewer in West Smithfield and upgrades Pump Station No. 3 at the end of Longview Drive. Permits, including a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers review, were completed in fall 2024.

Town staff presented a revised budget showing prior expenditures and remaining line items; the low bid exceeded the original budget by just under $521,000. Staff and the town's grant consultant told council the EDA will likely seek assurance that the town will obligate additional funds if necessary. Staff said the town intends to set aside capital funds in the upcoming fiscal year to cover any difference.

Council approved a motion authorizing the town manager to execute a construction contract not to exceed the Park Construction bid and to send a letter committing to cover the budget shortfall through future capital funds. Council members asked about contingency uses, homeowner notifications, and the potential for encountering difficult soil in an 800-foot aerial crossing behind warehouse property. Staff said they had done geotechnical work but that some uncertainty remains until construction begins.

The council motion carried; the contract will proceed pending required federal approvals.