Belgrade authorizes $8.23 million for Cruiser intersection project and right-of-way work

The Belgrade City Council authorized city staff to begin right-of-way acquisition and proceed with construction engineering and construction for the Cruiser intersection improvements, setting an initial project budget of $8,225,824.70.

City staff said the project, previously called the Dry Creek/Cruiser/Spooner intersection project, expanded in scope and was renamed to reflect that change. Sanbel was hired in October 2022 for preliminary and final design; staff reported the design is roughly 60% complete and that the engineer's estimate includes a 30% contingency for right-of-way acquisition and construction.

The council heard that initial funding for the project would come from collected developer contributions and street impact fees. Staff explained that right-of-way acquisition is required for the design as presented and that inability to acquire necessary parcels could require redesign. Council members pressed staff about contingencies if not all property owners agree to sell; staff said alternatives and design adjustments would be considered in that case.

Council also confirmed emergency vehicle access would be maintained; staff said the design vehicle is an AWB67 (an 18-wheeler turning template) and that emergency apparatus should be able to navigate proposed geometry. A motion to authorize the city manager to acquire necessary right-of-way, execute related agreements and change orders, and establish the initial budget was moved, seconded and approved unanimously.

Staff proposed a tentative schedule that includes completing right-of-way acquisition by fall, finishing final design by winter or early 2026, bidding in late winter 2026 and beginning construction approximately April 15, 2026, with work spanning two seasons.