Branch Connection project to continue while city finalizes bond sale, staff says

Staff updated the board on financing and scheduling for the Branch Connection Phase 2.

Speaker 1 reported that voters approved the bond for the remaining Phase 2 portion and said the city met with the finance director to plan expedited work. To avoid stopping construction for the bond sale, staff proposed issuing a change order to the contractor (who bid the entire project) and using general fund balance to front the Phase 2 work, to be reimbursed when bonds are sold later this summer or in September.

Speaker 1 said staff plan to take the financing approach to council in July and are targeting completion of Phase 1 by the end of August; staff estimated Phase 2 would take about 10 weeks after approval, which could put final completion near the end of the year depending on approvals and contractor scheduling.

Why it matters: maintaining contractor continuity could reduce delays and cost increases. Staff framed the approach as contingent on council approval and bond sale timing.

Next steps: staff will prepare materials for council review in July and coordinate with the contractor to firm a Phase 2 schedule once funding mechanics are approved.