Lyon County awards $1.88M contract for Rock Rapids secondary‑roads shop after competitive bidding

Lyon County has awarded the construction contract for a new secondary‑roads building in Rock Rapids to G.A. Johnson Construction for $1,883,000 after a public bid opening and review by architect CMBA and county staff.

Architects with CMBA led the bid opening and post‑opening review and reported that the low bidder submitted some missing paperwork that was later completed. Supervisors discussed bid irregularities and waived minor informalities after CMBA and counsel recommended acceptance.

The contract includes alternates for a concrete apron and metal bollards at the door openings. The Board approved an amended AIA contract (incorporating negotiated language on retainage and payment) and authorized the chairman to sign the contract. G.A. Johnson submitted the first pay application (covering bonds and insurance) and the board approved the payment.

Construction timeline and cost controls: the board and engineer discussed contingencies and CMBA fees (architect’s fee estimated at 6% of awarded bid) and noted additional site and dirt‑work costs that may be handled as alternates. Sievers and the board agreed the county will perform some civil/dirt work internally to save costs. Governors and staff noted supply issues (metal lead times) could affect schedule; early site work was planned for the upcoming construction season.

Next steps: the county will manage contract administration with CMBA, monitor change orders and alternates, and approve pay applications as work progresses. The Board expects the project to support operating efficiency for the roads department once completed.