Board adopts $2027–2031 transportation construction program; staff outline major projects and $120M year in 2027 spending

Assistant County Manager Bobby Benias and Public Works staff presented the transportation construction program for FY2027–2031, outlining district priorities, funding sources and specific capital projects.

Benias said the program compiles legislative appropriations, grants, right‑of‑way impact fees, sales tax capital projects and county transportation funds; staff told commissioners they anticipate roughly $120 million in project spending in 2027 (largely carryover and grant funds). South District public works (Mike Holko) highlighted projects including the Hartwood Marsh four‑laning with an estimated construction cost of $29,300,000 and plans for Wellness Way signalization; Central District (Jeff Earhart) reviewed the County Road 466A widening (estimated $14,000,000) and the Udora roundabout; North District (Seth Lynch) summarized Round Lake Road extension and culvert projects. Staff also discussed a long list of resurfacing needs (about $169 million to address low‑rated roads) and bridge work required for older bridges such as Haines Creek (emergency repairs, ~$1M short term; full replacement estimated $10–15M).

Commissioners asked detailed questions about coordination with sidewalk and trail projects, potential right‑of‑way impacts for roundabout options, and funding tradeoffs should Amendment 3 pass; staff said they would pursue grant opportunities, consider general fund transfers for critical projects and noted $2 million of unrealized interest revenue was available for road projects this year. The board voted 5–0 to adopt the transportation construction program as presented.