Highway staff: intersection safety grant will require wetland mitigation credits; bids set for two structures June 16

Highway staff briefed the commission on two separate items: a planned public bid for two county structures and a DOT-funded safety improvement project at the 220th & 464th intersection.

Brian said the two structures will be bid together and that the board will open bids on 06/16/2026 at 2:30 p.m. in the community room. Regarding the safety grant, staff presented two wetland mitigation options for an affected low-lying area: 0.234 acres ("about $6,550") and 0.139 acres ("about $3,900"). Brian noted that some right-of-way acquisition, temporary and permanent easements, and wetland mitigation credit costs would be county responsibilities depending on the option selected.

Commissioners asked about landowner coordination and whether neighboring Lake County would be involved; Brian said he had not spoken with Lake County and did not anticipate difficulties with landowners because the area is not actively farmed. Construction for the intersection is anticipated in 2028, and staff told commissioners they would return with finalized plans and budget numbers.