Owasso approves design amendments and engineering contracts for stormwater projects

The Owasso City Council on Wednesday approved two engineering items aimed at addressing localized flooding and drainage problems.

For the Smithview Channel and Riola Park detention pond project, staff described a redesign that would move the low point of 8th Street and change the construction footprint so runoff discharges on city property to the park channel. Daniel Deary, a city staff member, presented Amendment No. 2 to the Meshek/Meshach and Associates design agreement to capture additional survey and design work. Deary said the original design agreement was $281,630 and a prior amendment raised it to $337,670; the proposed survey fee was $7,800, which “would bring the total fee to $345,470.” Staff recommended using stormwater fund budget dollars for the amendment and the council approved the change.

On a separate but related item, staff recommended an engineering‑services agreement with WSB LLC to design drainage improvements in the Lake Ridge Estates neighborhood. Deary told the council that WSB evaluated three alternatives and recommended Alternative 1 — a diversion channel — as the most cost‑effective solution, estimating the alternative at $324,654. The negotiated design fee was $57,500 plus a $10,000 contingency (total $67,500); staff said funding is available in the stormwater budget but that easements are likely to be required for final construction. Councilors asked about runoff impacts on the receiving creek; Deary said the study determined there would be no net increase to the creek’s flow and that the design would capture and bypass the runoff.

Both items were approved by unanimous roll call. Staff said minor design contingencies may be used under city direction to avoid small delays and additional council motions for modest amendments.

Councilors directed staff to continue outreach with affected homeowners and to return with required easement details before construction agreements are sought.