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FEMA raises cost estimate for Blue Earth County dam project to about $23.17 million; county seeks to streamline approval
Summary
County staff reported an updated FEMA cost estimate of $23,171,920 for dam repair/removal and slope stabilization, discussed design alternatives with consultant Bar Engineering, and set a June 12 deadline to provide additional cost detail to FEMA as the county pursues authorization and funding.
Blue Earth County staff told commissioners May 12 that FEMA has issued an updated cost estimate of $23,171,920 for the county’s dam repair/removal and slope stabilization project — nearly double an earlier estimate cited in county materials. Staff said the figure is close to the county’s own cost estimate for dam removal and slope stabilization and discussed next steps to streamline FEMA approval and avoid a two‑step amendment process.
Public Works staff described recent coordination with MDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on time extensions and approvals and reported that FHWA indicated regional approval could suffice rather than requiring Washington, D.C., review. The county submitted a time extension request to FHWA seeking a three‑month extension to keep the project on schedule; staff said the county is pushing to maintain momentum and requested a June 12 deadline to respond to FEMA’s request for additional cost data.
Consultant Bar Engineering and county staff have been refining design alternatives and cost estimates; staff indicated FEMA’s revised estimate was significantly higher than the prior $12.27 million figure and that the county must provide targeted, timely documentation so FEMA can include dam removal options in its environmental review and funding decision. Staff cautioned against spending excessive County resources on detailed line‑by‑line cost verifications for every FEMA item and said they would prioritize key items where county data could affect the estimate.
Commissioners discussed objectives for the next work session (May 26) where design alternatives will be reviewed. Staff noted a four‑year deadline tied to the event that triggered federal funding, creating urgency to get the project authorized by June 2028 or to request an extension. A commissioner said he favored reusing recycled concrete from the dam in project work if feasible.
County staff will work with Bar Engineering to finalize a set of design alternatives and submit required information to FEMA by mid‑June so the agency can incorporate dam removal and slope stabilization options in the single approval package.
