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Board authorizes next‑phase design work for Southport shoreline stabilization tied to $5M grant
Summary
Southport staff presented a multi‑phase shoreline stabilization project and the Board of Aldermen unanimously authorized Task Order 6 to advance phase‑2 design and bidding. Officials said they expect to encumber a $5 million grant by June 30, 2026, and to seek permit approvals in early 2026.
Southport staff asked the Board of Aldermen to authorize Task Order 6 with Foth Olsen (formerly Olsen Associates) to complete topographic updates, finalize design and prepare bidding documents for phase 2 of the city's shoreline stabilization project. The board voted unanimously to authorize the task order.
Project consultant Mister Jarvis told the board the firm had completed topographic and cultural resource surveys, assisted with easement acquisition, and submitted permit applications for phases 1 and 2. He outlined a preliminary schedule: permit approvals expected in spring 2026, bidding upon receipt of permits, and a likely four‑month construction period beginning after a late‑spring 2026 notice to proceed.
Board members pressed staff on a $5 million grant tied to the work and on the schedule: staff said the grant funding must be encumbered by June 30, 2026 (meaning the construction contract must be awarded by then) but that the construction completion date is not required by that deadline. Staff reported only modest expenditures to date (consultant work and easement legal work) and described intent to use contract ad alternates to keep the project within the $5 million budget. Members discussed permitting complexity and concern about potential federal or state review delays; staff noted applications were accepted and the reviews had few questions so far.
The board's motion to authorize Foth Olsen's Task Order 6 passed unanimously. Staff said they will proceed to finalize design, prepare bidding documents and seek to meet encumbrance deadlines tied to the grant.
