Lincoln OKs nearly $1 million storm-drain contract using remaining ARPA funds

The City of Lincoln on Dec. 10 adopted a resolution creating CIP 685 (Eleventh Street storm-drain repair), approved plans and specifications, and authorized the city manager to execute a construction contract with LaFleur Engineering in the amount of $998,619. Staff said the project will use about $1,200,000 of remaining ARPA funds to replace just under 1,000 linear feet of storm drain on East Eleventh Street between East Avenue and Harrison Avenue.

Associate Engineer Jacob Grocer presented the project scope, explaining the base bid covers the highest-priority reaches of pipe and an alternative/additive bid could expand the work if bids allowed. Grocer said the city previously performed an emergency repair on a small section and camera inspections earlier in the year showed significant soil intrusion and voids in other reaches; proactive replacement reduces the risk of future sinkholes and emergency repairs. LaFleur Engineering submitted the lowest responsive base bid (just under $800,000 for the base) and combined base plus alternates came in just under $1,000,000, leaving funds for contingency and construction management.

Finance staff clarified the council was being asked to approve a budget augmentation of $1,200,000.043406 (transcript figure) from unencumbered ARPA funds, and to authorize contract award for $998,619 with change orders up to $144,787. Council members from the district where the work will occur spoke in support and the resolution passed unanimously.

Staff said the project includes resurfacing the street after the storm-drain replacement and that sidewalks would be considered depending on scope and funding. The council directed staff to proceed with contract execution and to manage change orders within the authorized limit.