Board of Public Works awards $5.48 million contract for Century Drive reconstruction

The Goshen Board of Public Works and Safety voted unanimously on May 21 to award a $5,477,547.25 contract to Midblock Excavating for reconstruction of Century Drive between College Avenue and Kercher Road. Andrew of Goshen Engineering presented the project and the bid results to the board.

The winning selection followed review by the Redevelopment Commission, which recommended awarding the base bid plus Alternate 1 — an eight-foot-wide shared-use path on the west side of Century Drive from College Avenue to Eisenhower Drive. Andrew said two alternates were considered: Alternate 1, the shared-use path, and Alternate 2, which would add additional sidewalk connections down to Kercher Road. He told the board the commission accepted Midblock Excavating as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder for the base bid plus Alternate 1.

A staff member confirmed the legal department had completed its review of the redevelopment funding condition, and the chair invited final questions before the motion. Board member (mover) put forward the award motion; it was seconded and approved unanimously.

The contract covers reconstruction of the roadway and associated pedestrian facilities as described in the bid packet. Redevelopment and engineering staff noted the shared-use path will close a gap to existing trails and provide a link from downtown to the Pumpkin Vine Trail and nearby businesses. Andrew said the project team is attempting to construct part of the project this year and emphasized the importance of the contracting timeline.

Next steps include contract execution and scheduling; engineering staff will return to the board with detailed plans and timelines as work is finalized.