Bridge change order approved and Rapidan Dam update shows $11.5M funding gap

The board approved change order number 1 for State Project 007609015, the design contract for the County State Highway 9 bridge over the Plymouth River. Staff explained TKDA is the prime consultant and Braun Intertech performed geotechnical work; additional services were required for access assistance, deeper borings after substructure revisions, and revised foundation recommendations. The approved change order amount is $103,902.96.

In a related presentation, staff provided a detailed update on the larger County State Highway 9 bridge replacement and Rapidan Dam efforts: 60% plans have been submitted to MnDOT, updated cost estimates include an 18% contingency, and the current combined federal and state funding allocated is $22,300,000. Staff reported an anticipated total project cost (including design and contingencies) of $33,800,000, producing an estimated funding gap of $11,500,000. Staff said the Federal Highway Administration wants to see a 90% cost estimate to reduce contingency assumptions before FHWA will consider additional funding requests if project costs exceed 20% above current allocations.

Board members received the update and approved the change order by voice vote; staff said they will continue coordinating with MnDOT and FHWA on potential additional funding paths and next steps.