Pocatello approves engineering amendments to advance South Fifth Complete Streets and sewer project

Pocatello City Council approved on June 4 two contract amendments to advance the South Fifth Complete Streets and sewer improvement project.

Council authorized an amendment with JUB Engineers for surveying, right-of-way mapping and utility coordination work required across the corridor. Project manager Marielle Mahi described the area covered—South Fifth through several cross streets and areas where private developments will connect to city water and sewer—and said the surveying and utility-location work are prerequisites for final design.

Council also approved a design amendment with Keller Associates to prepare water and sewer plans and construction-ready documents. Christine, the city’s grants manager, explained funding comes from retained funds from a prior EPA Community Change grant closeout (just under $1.3 million retained) and a grant-division match account to cover a modest estimate overrun of a few thousand dollars.

Councilmembers asked why two firms are used; staff explained JUB will complete surveying and mapping while Keller will complete design and construction documents. Both motions passed on roll call.

Staff said the amendments aim to make the corridor projects shovel-ready to improve chances of securing additional grant funds for construction.