Kane County awards excavation contract to Advanced Construction for Kanab Center dirt removal

The Kane County Commission on March 25 awarded an excavation services contract for removal of a large dirt pile behind the Kanab Center to Advanced Construction after receiving 14 bids.

Commissioner Cabejos and county staff described the project as necessary to avoid constructing a very high retention wall for a planned recreational center expansion. Staff said the county requested bids priced per cubic yard for removal and transport rather than a fixed not-to-exceed figure, and that Advanced Construction bid $5.75 per cubic yard. Staff reported the next competitive bid was $6.35 per cubic yard and that many other bids were substantially higher.

County staff said they used reference checks and found Advanced Construction to be a reputable contractor; Advanced Construction was described as based in Washington City, Utah, and was already working on other local projects. Staff provided a planning example of moving approximately 50,000 cubic yards — roughly one-third of the hill — which they estimated at about $300,000 as a planning-level figure. Final cost and schedule depend on the contractor's availability and the county's decision on how much material to move in this contract.

The commission voted unanimously to award the contract. Staff said removed material will be moved to the Caneplex to increase parking and support future events, including potential mountain-bike events that would require expanded parking.

Next steps: staff will confirm budget allocations (possible sources discussed included the Caneplex budget, rec center budget and tourism-related funds), finalize a scope and schedule with the contractor, and return with implementation details as needed.