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Board weighs tunnel erosion-control study and a wide range of cost outcomes, from landscaping to retaining walls
Summary
Staff proposed a $275,000 placeholder for engineering and construction for the 2499 tunnel landscape/erosion-control project but the board warned that retaining walls or extensive structural repairs could push costs much higher; staff suggested presenting a cost range up to $825,000 as the high-end placeholder for council.
Phil (staff member) presented a task order for an erosion-control study at the 2499 tunnel that will provide four landscape options and opinions of probable construction cost. He said the initial placeholder for engineering and construction was $275,000 but noted “we don't know what that is” and that a placeholder number was necessary for budgeting.
Board members and consultants cautioned that the study might identify the need for structural retaining walls and related geotechnical work that would significantly increase costs. One member said a realistic worst-case scenario could be as high as $825,000 to $1,000,000 for a new retaining wall and associated shoring and design; Phil proposed keeping $825,000 as the high-end placeholder but offering a range to council so the maximum is clear. The chair said, "I don't wanna spend $850,000 if I don't have to, but when I look at this... I don't see retaining walls on [other projects], so I'm hopeful" (Chair, speaker 1). Staff confirmed the study will include east/west side analysis, phasing options, and coordination with TxDOT as needed.
The board requested a clear option set from the consultant and asked staff to present the full cost range when the opinion of probable cost is available so that council can weigh grant opportunities and fund-balance impacts.
