Stephenson County approves state-funded Route 26/McConnell Road reconstruction, awards road bid and authorizes truck purchase

Stephenson County Board members voted unanimously to approve several public-works measures, including a state-funded reconstruction of the Route 26 and McConnell Road intersection, a $444,273 contract award for North Shippey Road work, and authorization to secure a tandem-cab chassis and snow-equipment buildout.

Mr. Brandt presented a joint agreement for reconstruction of the Route 26/McConnell Road intersection, which he said is fully funded by a state award. The resolution includes a small county appropriation of $30,000 as a contingency for potential cost overruns. "There is going to be the addition of a left turn lane on the southbound traffic of 26," Engineer Rasmussen said in response to board questions; he added there will be no roundabout. Rasmussen told the board he expects construction to be completed in the 2026 construction season. The board approved the agreement 12-0.

The board then awarded a bid of $444,273 to Martin and Company for work on North Shippey Road (West Point area); the award passed 13-0.

Finally, the board approved setting the price and obtaining queue placement for a tandem-axle cab and chassis and related snow-equipment package (HD 2612). Members noted long lead times for such vehicles and discussed emission-standard timing as a reason to order early. The truck and equipment authorization passed 13-0.

No amendments to the contracts were recorded in the meeting minutes; staff directed to proceed with contract execution and equipment ordering.