Commissioners approve $87,424 contract uptick for Bridge 200; highway report cleared to keep state funding flowing

The Warrick County Commissioners voted April 27 to approve Amendment No. 1 to the contract with American StructurePoint for work on Bridge 200, increasing the contract by $87,424.79 to a total of $314,170.90.

Stephen Sherwood, appearing on behalf of Bobby Howard, said the contractor (Lickenburger) started the project later than anticipated and weather and schedule adjustments extended the construction period from 29 weeks to 40 weeks. Sherwood told the board American StructurePoint had to provide additional engineering services to cover the extended timeline; commissioners debated the increase but ultimately approved the amendment by voice vote.

The board also approved the highway department's annual operational report for local roads, streets and bridges. The chair said the report is required for the county to continue receiving state funds; a commissioner moved, the motion was seconded, and the report passed unanimously.

A commissioner noted discomfort with the size of the amendment but indicated the change fell within the contractor's scope and federal program rules for federally aided projects. No public opposition or further conditions were placed on the approvals at the meeting.