Carver County approves $600,004 bid to repair two Dakota Rail Regional Trail bridges

The Carver County Board voted to award a construction contract for two bridge projects on the Dakota Rail Regional Trail for a bid amount of $600,004.00, a motion moved by Commissioner Fahey and seconded by Commissioner Anderson that passed by voice vote.

County staff described the scope as two structures on the far west side of the county near New Germany, including one replacement of a box culvert and the replacement of a bridge identified as R 0630/R 0631. "There will be impacts to that," a staff presenter said, warning organizers of an informal speed-walking event and other trail users that rerouting is likely during construction.

Staff said the county has not yet finalized an exact start date but indicated the awarded contractor will be asked to set a schedule and that typical completion expectations were discussed; staff estimated contractor timelines once they mobilize and noted inspection and follow-up will be required. The motion included a contingency that the award is subject to successful completion of the contract review process.

Commissioners asked technical questions about salvaging and reusing portions of an existing deck and whether surfaces would be paved for pedestrians and bicyclists; staff said they would follow up with specifics on surfacing. The board approved the award with no recorded opposition.

Next steps: staff will complete contract review, schedule a preconstruction meeting with the contractor and circulate construction timing and detours to affected stakeholders.