Carmel Board approves slate of contracts, grants and permits including siren replacements and major utility work

The Carmel Board of Public Works and Safety on Wednesday, Jan. 22 approved a series of contracts, professional‑service amendments, permits and grants, including a $239,317.10 contract to replace five tornado sirens, multiple road and water‑system contracts and a $100,000 grant to a local nonprofit.

The actions resolve short‑term infrastructure needs and authorize longer‑range planning work the city says will support traffic, storm‑water and public‑safety systems. Several items were routine contract signings for projects previously awarded; one construction award was tabled because of outstanding federal funding conditions.

Board action and highlights

- The board approved a $239,317.10 purchase from Emergency Radio Services LLC to replace five tornado sirens as the first phase of a multi‑year replacement program for the city’s roughly 21 sirens. Kevin Cusimano, director of Information and Communication Services, said, “So while that says new here, that is the replacement of 5 tornado sirens,” and that the city plans to replace about five sirens per year until the full system is updated.

- The board approved awarding and contracting for several road and roundabout projects, including a contract with Calumet Civil Contractors Inc. for the 106th and Westfield Boulevard roundabout. Brad Peace, director of engineering, recommended Calumet as “the lowest responsible bidder.” The board also approved multiple professional‑services amendments for design and inspection work by Crossroad Engineers PC for Town Road roundabouts, the 116th Street thoroughfare study and the 106th & Lakeshore Drive roundabout.

- The board approved utility contracts and add‑ons: contract signings for 2024 water main improvements and the River Road Water Main Extension with TPI Utility Construction LLC (amounts on the agenda $705,675 and $917,450 respectively), and accepted three utility add‑on contracts for booster pump station and storage…