McGregor FEMA project bids come in above estimated cost
By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times Editor
The McGregor Council reviewed bids for the city’s FEMA stormwater protection project at its Nov. 18 meeting, finding all three bids received were over the estimated cost of $2 million. The lowest was $2.79 million.
Andrew McGovern, from engineering firm HR Green, noted that the cost increase is likely related to mobilization and higher concrete prices. It may also be that the contractors haven’t dealt much with some of the project’s components, he said.
The project will include construction and modification of public infrastructure, including earthwork, pavement, sidewalk, storm sewer, debris catchment, channel lining, spillway and more.
The city has 90 days to evaluate the budget and funding for the project, with the council planning to award a contract at its Jan. 20 meeting.
McGovern said putting off some of the planned work is not an option, as the city would then lose funding.