Columbus council approves $2,755,700 West School Street reconstruction contract and a $238,700 construction task order

The Columbus Common Council on April 28 awarded the West School Street reconstruction contract to Forest Landscaping and Construction Incorporated for $2,755,700 and approved a related construction-services task order with Rookert Milke not to exceed $238,700.

The council voted to approve the contract after a brief presentation and discussion. City staff member Sam said, “Everything is as it says in the memo… Forest was lowest bidder,” and explained that the $2,755,700 total encompasses both the School Street base bid and the previously postponed parking-lot base bid. Council members also noted the project will bring nearby park sites and lift stations into compliance with local paving requirements.

The task order, listed as 2026-04, was amended on the floor to specify the city would pay contractors “not to exceed $238,700.” Sam described the task order as standard construction administration work: construction staking for both projects, construction review, and administration tasks such as processing pay applications and serving as the communications point between the contractor and the city.

Both measures were approved in recorded roll-call votes with no opposition reported and an absence noted during the session. Following the votes, the chair thanked staff for their patience and support as the council moved the project forward.

The contract award binds the city to a $2,755,700 construction contract with Forest Landscaping and Construction Incorporated; the task order authorizes staff to engage Rookert Milke for construction-related services up to the approved limit. The council did not discuss a procurement protest or contract alternatives during the meeting. The council adjourned after approving these items.