By GAGE WILSON
for Glasgow News 1
At its first meeting of the new year, Glasgow’s Infrastructure Committee received updates on bids for two downtown projects — repairs to a support wall along W. Main Street near the public square, and work tied to the walkway and elevator leading to the city’s parking structure.
Public Works Director Jim McGowan told the committee the wall project had gone back out to bid since its last meeting. Of the six bids received, the lowest came in at a little over $262,000 from Outdoor Specialties Lawn and Landscaping, a Brandenburg-based company. Councilman Freddie Norris asked whether the figure fell within budget.
“That’s what we’re trying to figure out now,” McGowan responded. Mayor Henry Royse added that the bid includes amenities beyond the wall’s repair, such as a staircase and guardrail, which McGowan confirmed.
Discussion then moved to the pedestrian walkway beside the Barren County Clerk’s office. McGowan said two bids were received, with Lexington-based Adams Contracting submitting the low bid at a little over $400,000. When factoring in related work, the total cost of the project would approach $700,000.
In an effort to potentially reduce costs, McGowan said the department has returned to the geo-technical firm that tested the rock foundation to seek additional information. “At this point there are some unknowns about this project,” he said.
Street Department Manager Wes Billingsley noted Adams Contracting has previously worked with the city on a walking path. McGowan said negotiations are ongoing and that the committee would be kept informed of any developments.
“We need a little better understanding on what it will actually cost,” McGowan said. Royse added that the scope of the project was “larger than he had envisioned” due to the use of heavy construction equipment.
McGowan pointed to crane setup as a major cost driver.
“They had mentioned that if these cranes have to sit here for any extended time it’s $1,500 an hour,” he said. “If there is something that isn’t exactly right and it takes 10 hours you’re looking at $15,000.”
Norris asked whether breaking the project into phases could help reduce costs. McGowan said doing so would likely increase the price due to mobilization fees.
“The fee would be $100,000 right off the bat, just to get here,” he explained. “So if they leave and come back that’d be another $100,000.”
Work on the pedestrian walkway can begin because the county has relocated the generator wires that were previously fastened to the underside.
The committee also addressed speeding concerns within city limits. Councilwoman Marna Kirkpatrick said she had received several complaints from residents along Lexington Drive and asked about placing radar speed signs on the street. Royse said the city has seen success with the signs along YMCA Way and Country Club Road.
Billingsley added that moving the signs is a simple process, though the department has a limited number available. Royse said discussions about acquiring additional signs may be needed.
The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 2.
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