Marshfield advances 5th Street and Vine/4th Street reconstruction steps, selects Terra Venture Advisors for acquisition services

The Marshfield Board of Public Works approved several steps to advance multiple federally funded and city‑funded street reconstruction projects and authorized contract selection for real estate acquisition services.

Staff told the board the City received a 2022 STP urban grant to reconstruct 5th Street (Oak Avenue to Chestnut Avenue). Because federal funds are involved, WisDOT acquisition requirements apply; staff recommended approving the right-of-way plat and a relocation order to initiate the real estate acquisition process and authorized the acting public works director to sign the plat before referring the matter to the common council.

For Vine Avenue and 4th Street reconstruction, staff explained the projects overlap near 4th & Vine and together involve approximately 120 parcels needing temporary limited easements for roadway, sidewalk and utility improvements. An RFP was posted publicly and five proposals were received. A staff review committee ranked Terra Venture Advisors of Eau Claire as the first choice based on qualifications and cost considerations, and staff recommended approval to authorize execution of the acquisition services contract.

Board member Natasha asked whether the overall cost and borrowing associated with capital improvement projects could be reduced by streamlining processes; staff agreed to pursue conversations with relevant associations to explore options for efficiency. Motions to approve the 5th Street right-of-way and relocation order and to select Terra Venture Advisors carried on voice votes; both items will be referred to the common council or otherwise proceed through required municipal and WisDOT processes.

Staff noted acquisition service costs and property interests for the Vine/4th projects will be funded by the city. The board asked staff to continue providing cost details as contracts and consultant scopes are finalized.