The Morrison County Board approved several public-works actions: authorization to proceed with contract 2603 for Sealine Trail surfacing with a reduced aggregate quantity to fit available funding, finalization of contract 2601 for pavement markings, and a resolution supporting a federal Bridge Improvement Program (BIP) grant application for a deficient county-owned bridge.
County engineer Tony Hannon told commissioners the Sealine ATV-trail project had $150,000 in grant funding plus $50,000 in ATV-club matching funds for a $200,000 total. Bids came in higher than expected; Hannon reported the low bidder was about 54% over the engineer’s estimate. To keep the project within budget, the county plans a change order to reduce aggregate placement—from an original plan near 15,000 tons to roughly 9,600 tons—then work with the contractor to prioritize sections that need thicker surfacing.
The board then authorized contract 2603 with that approach and approved the motion in a roll-call vote.
On contract 2601, for annual pavement striping, Hannon reported final payouts essentially matched the original bid estimate; the board authorized final payment and closed the contract.
Hannon also requested a board resolution supporting a federal Bridge Improvement Program grant application to replace a county-owned landfill bridge (Cassad 35) that is becoming deficient. Commissioners voted unanimously to back the grant application.
Next steps: staff will implement the change order and prioritize gravel placement for the ATV project, finalize contract 2601 closure documents, and submit the bridge grant-supporting resolution with the application.