Isanti awards right-of-way and geotechnical contracts for Heritage Intersection

Council approved two consultant contracts to move the Heritage Intersection project forward. Staff recommended Henning Professional Services to provide right-of-way acquisition services (three permanent and five temporary easements) at a proposed cost of $46,335, part of a two-thirds/one-third funding split with a partner agency. The council debated the cost but approved the award unanimously.

For geotechnical and materials testing, staff recommended Braun Intertech at an estimated $44,155 (budgeted $50,000). Staff explained the higher-detail bid included additional borings and traffic-control work; Braun was recommended for thoroughness and to avoid schedule risks. Councilmembers discussed reducing borings in pavement areas and focusing testing on new or unpaved sections to control costs; staff indicated they would refine the scope as needed. The motion to award Braun Intertech passed 5-0.

Both contracts were presented as necessary to meet state requirements for use of grant or state funds and to keep the project on a timeline that could deliver results by June of the following construction cycle.