Willow Springs board approves $2.1 million Towne Center green infrastructure contract

The Willow Springs Village Board approved a contract not to exceed $2,099,903 with M and J Asphalt Paving Company to complete the Towne Center green infrastructure improvement project.

Engineer Branson told the board M and J was the lowest responsible bidder and that the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) is providing roughly $1,000,000 in funding for the work. "The scope of work is the entire village center here," Branson said, describing roadway replacement, sidewalks repaired or replaced, brickwork at the village hall and permeable pavers intended to increase stormwater infiltration.

Administrator Grace said the contract includes a firm completion deadline: "July 1 is the drop-dead completion date," and staff expect a 6-to-8-week construction window, weather permitting. Branson and staff noted the project is designed to capture and retain stormwater; Branson estimated the project would provide on the order of "half 1,000,000 gallons at least" of retention capacity.

Trustees during discussion praised the bid specifications and pre-bid sewer inspections intended to avoid putting new pavement over failing sewer infrastructure. Trustee Ira noted the work will include brickwork in front of the village hall and other surface improvements that will change the look and function of the village center.

The board approved the award by roll call. No opposition was recorded on the motion.

The contract is a grant partnership with MWRD; additional agreements or intergovernmental approvals required by the grant will be brought back to the board as needed. Construction sequencing will be coordinated with vendors and the village to minimize disruption, and staff said they expect local flooding improvements once the infiltration system is in place. The village will publish a construction schedule and parking/traffic updates for residents before work begins.