Bridge inspection finalized; town staff says RFP ready and timeline tight for pool season

Somerset — Town staff told the council the updated bridge inspection report has been finalized and the RFP for rehabilitation will be published as soon as staff attaches the finalized plans.

"With regards to the bridge re rehabilitation, currently, the updated inspection report has been finalized," EJ, the temporary manager, said, adding that the load rating and bridge plans are still under review and the quality-control process requires additional time. "Tentatively, I believe we can submit by the end of next week," he said.

Council members pressed EJ for reasons behind repeated schedule slips after plans were moved from December to January and then into February. EJ said he had asked the contractor for the reason for the second delay and would share that information with the council when he receives it. "I just haven't heard back from them yet, but I can share that with the council once they hear it," EJ said.

Council Member Rovac asked whether pool access would be affected if the bridge work is delayed. EJ said the timber decking replacement — the pedestrian-safety element most visible to residents — is a straightforward task and he did not foresee issues with pool access. The mayor said the contractor will attend the council's upcoming work session in two weeks.

Why it matters: The bridge work is on the town’s critical-path calendar for spring activities; any delay that interferes with pool access would affect resident use and town operations. The RFP’s imminent publication means procurement can begin as plans are finalized.

Next steps: Staff will attach final plans to the RFP and publish it; EJ will provide an updated timeline in his weekly communication and the contractor will attend the next work session.