Board approves emergency change order for failing W. 23rd Street waterline near Washington Elementary

On July 15 the City of Lorain Board of Control approved a locally funded change order to the OPWC 39B W. 23rd Street roadway contract to replace a failing waterline between Washington Avenue and Hamilton Avenue. The change order with Terminal Ready Mix is $245,294.00, plus 10% contingency for a total of $269,823.40, to be charged to account 6020.P602.6190.6300.1500.

Staff said processing the emergency waterline replacement through the existing roadway contract keeps one prime contractor responsible for traffic control, sequencing and restoration in an active work zone. The minutes note Lorain City Schools raised questions about replacement of the Washington Elementary parking lot apron; staff committed to work with the school to determine the best course of action. The Board approved the request as an emergency after receiving a written legal opinion that competitive rebidding was not required; the item references Council approval via Ordinance 96-26.

Terminal Ready Mix provided the primary quote; Spear Brothers was contacted but did not submit a bid because of workload. The Board’s approval was recorded with Mayor Jack Bradley moving and Safety/Service Director Rey Carrion seconding the motion.