City awards $6.0 million contract to rehabilitate Lift Station 48 and install 16‑inch force main

The Sugar Land City Council voted 7–0 Dec. 2 to award a $6,004,810.95 construction contract to R and B Group Inc. for the rehabilitation of Lift Station 48 and installation of a 16‑inch force main as part of CIP CWW2301.

Assistant City Engineer Jonathan Bridal said the project was recommended in the 2020 wastewater master plan, completed design in June 2025, and obtained a TCEQ permit and grant in May 2025. Bridal told council the force main will run about 5,000 linear feet and connect the lift station to the North Wastewater Treatment Plant; the scope includes a new wet well, pump and piping upgrades, electrical work, SCADA connectivity and a standby generator.

Bridal summarized the bidding history: an initial contract award to another firm failed when the bidder could not secure a performance bond; after re‑advertising the project, staff received eight bids and R and B Group submitted the lowest responsive bidder. Bridal said the city’s project funding includes construction costs, a $300,000 contingency, $50,000 for construction administration and $15,000 for material testing, and that utility funds are expected to cover the work.

Councilmember Single asked about bid bonds and remedies; Bridal said bid bonds are obtained on projects but staff and legal chose not to pursue a claim on a previous bid bond because it was difficult to demonstrate damages. Single then moved to approve the contract; the motion passed unanimously.

Staff indicated a planned notice to proceed in January 2026 with an estimated 395‑day construction schedule and a projected completion date in late February 2027.