Contract awarded for National Guard utility improvements to strengthen water flow and fire protection

The Board of Public Works and Safety approved awarding the National Guard utility improvement project contract to H&G on April 21, after necessary easements from NIPCO were finalized.

Tim Werner and other staff explained the project includes tie-ins that city officials said will strengthen water flow and fire protection for the mall area and surrounding dead-end lines. Werner noted the city had delayed awarding the contract until easements were secured so contractor timelines would not begin until the project could proceed.

A board member said the improvements not only assist the National Guard facility but also address lower water-pressure issues previously experienced near the mall; staff described the award as another step in multi-year efforts to improve fire flow in vulnerable parts of the system.

The motion to award the contract passed by voice vote; staff will provide scheduling and construction updates as the project moves into implementation.