Rawhide Trail Phase 2 proposed to widen trail, add solar lighting; Excel Construction low bidder

Maria Mentor, managing superintendent of public works, updated the Farmers Branch City Council on July 15 about the Rawhide Trail Phase 2 project, which continues last year’s Phase 1 improvements along the north side of the creek.

"We widened the existing trail from 8 feet wide to 12 feet wide, and we moved a portion of the trail out of the flood prone area," Mentor said, describing Phase 1 work from Webb Chapel to Josie Lane. She said Phase 2 will continue north-side improvements from Josie Lane to Tom Field, widen the path from 8 to 12 feet, address ADA compliance issues and add solar lighting to the completed and upcoming segments.

Mentor reported three bids were received in May and that Excel Construction submitted the lowest bid; she said staff checked references and found extensive prior experience. Funding for the Phase 2 work will come from the city’s trail bond fund, which has geographic restrictions on where bond proceeds may be used. "This is not a grant fund. This is a trail bond fund," Mentor said, noting the funding must be used in the central area authorized by the bond.

Council members expressed support. Councilman Neal said resident feedback on the Phase 1 improvements was positive and voiced support for Phase 2 and lighting additions.

No formal contract award was recorded in the study session; staff presented the bid results and sought council questions and concurrence to proceed with the procurement and scheduling steps provided the budget and bonding conditions are met.