Just last week KMAN reported on bid openings for a couple of subdivision infrastructure projects–and this week recommendations were approved by Pottawatomie County Commissioners. Commissioners unanimously said yes to bids on the Falling Leaf Unit Two and Whispering Meadows Unit 4 infrastructure projects.
Larson Construction was awarded the bid for Falling Leaf’s sewer work for $345,380.70. J&K Contracting was selected for Whispering Meadow’s sewer, water, streets and storm water work, for $725,105,45.
The group also indicated support for requests for proposals on the Wheaton and Olsburg Fire Stations. Proposals are due June 13th, but the commissioners suggested some tweaking of the Olsburg Fire building renovation in the meantime.
Pottawatomie County Public Works Director Peter Clark and Fire Supervisor Jared Barnes presented slides and suggestions for both facilities during Monday’s county commission meeting. There were some questions, particularly from County Commissioner Pat Weixelman, who had concerns about the expenses involved in some of the proposed renovations at Olsburg. He’ll be assisting in tweaking some of the plans.
Another matter that brought some discussion about additional costs had to do with supplemental work on the Excel Road and sewer project. That involved discussion about change orders, with Weixelman expressing concerns. Clark indicated he hopes to in the future have a more active role in such contracts, rather than having firms come back and ask for more later in the project.
At least five bridges in Pottawatomie County have a very low sufficiency rate, according to Public Works Director Peter Clark. Box Elder Bridge is just one of the problem bridges.On the more positive side, a majority of the bridges, over 220, in the county are in either good or excellent condition, according to Clark.
Clark told Commissioners Monday the Senior Center work, which involved replacement of the roof and some minor renovation work to the front entry awning, was a success story. A final walk-through is still planned. Commissioner Pat Weixelman did suggest a thorough look during the final inspection, indicating there still might be a slight void between the metal and shingles in the back door area.
On the operational side of things, Clark also mentioned dust abatement and pothole work that county crews had been working on.
