Fernley council approves preferred roundabout concept, asks staff to coordinate with NDOT

The Fernley City Council voted to advance the preferred concept for the downtown roundabout after a presentation by Madison Pong of Design Workshop that recommended a monument at the center, hardy native plantings and pedestrian‑friendly grading.

Madison Pong, the consultant on the project, said the preferred concept reflects staff direction and NDOT requirements and included a preliminary cost opinion “just under $200,000” for the preferred concept (not a final estimate). Deputy Public Works Director Olivia John confirmed the monument itself is estimated at about $50,000.

Council discussion focused on timing, NDOT approvals and whether landscaping should be largely temporary until any NDOT redesign is finalized. Public‑works Director Barry Williams said the monument could be retained even if future NDOT work were required, but some vegetation and rocks might be modified if NDOT widens the approaches.

Councilman Mendoza moved to proceed with the next phase for the preferred concept and Councilman Hannon seconded; Councilwoman Zaberski asked that the motion include a requirement that staff work closely with NDOT on current and future requirements. That amendment was accepted and the motion carried with a recorded vote of 4‑0.

City staff will take the preferred concept to NDOT for review; if the council approves it tonight, the treasurer said the project could be added to the final budget two weeks later but no funds would be spent until final designs and contracts return to the council for approval.