Eastport accepts $435,596 low bid to finish long‑delayed sidewalk project

The Eastport City Council voted unanimously to accept the low bid from EMX Corporation of $435,596 to complete a long‑delayed sidewalk project, moving the long‑planned capital improvement toward construction.

City staff said they received two bids, one significantly higher than budget expectations and the recommended low bid of $435,596, which "is more or less in line with what we anticipate." Staff told the council the state review raised no objections and that the city has sufficient matching funds in its capital plan. Project management will be led by the city's engineering partner, which will coordinate subcontractors and the clerk of works.

City Manager Brian and project staff noted a manageable contingency risk — principally potential storm‑drain or pipe work — but said they do not expect large change‑orders. Staff also warned that rejecting the bid now would cost the city roughly $110,000 in sunk design expenses and force the city to repay grant funds.

"The motion would be to accept the bid from EMX Corporation for $435,596," the council president said; the motion was seconded and carried on a unanimous roll call of members present. Councilors asked staff to manage schedule and contingency risks; staff noted a contractor preference to complete work quickly but cautioned that practical construction sequencing (curbing, equipment staging) might affect the timeline.

Next steps include finalizing the contract with EMX, coordinating required permits and state reporting, and scheduling work so disruptions to local streets are minimized.