HomeMy WebLinkAboutA017 - Resolution approving Professional Services Agreement with Strand Associates, Inc., of Ames, IA, for the 2025/26 Multi-Modal Roadway Improvements (Wilder Boulevard Mini-Roundabout Corridor)ITEM #:19
DATE:10-14-25
DEPT:PW
SUBJECT:2025/26 MULTI-MODAL ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS
(WILDER BOULEVARD MINI-ROUNDABOUT CORRIDOR)
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Multi-modal transportation refers to the variety of modes used by Ames residents to travel the
transport system. The modes specifically addressed in the Multi-Modal Roadway
Improvements Program include bicycling and automobiles. This program is aimed at improving
the roadway to create a safer interaction between these two modes using alternatives such as
improved crossing visibility at intersections, bike detection, and on-street facilities (e.g., bike
lanes and sharrows).
This project will implement a mini-roundabout corridor along Wilder Boulevard between
Lincoln Way & Mortensen Road. Multiple complaints regarding speeding through the
corridor have been received since Wilder Boulevard was connected from Lincoln Way to
Mortensen Road.
Mini-roundabout corridors help reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for all users.
Mini-roundabouts are designed to: 1) fit within the existing roadway and intersection
geometry, which helps to minimize their expense, 2) encourage slower, more consistent
travel, and 3) maintain smooth traffic flow. For pedestrians and bicyclists, mini-
roundabouts provide shorter crossings, fewer conflict points, and a calmer traffic
environment, supporting safer and more comfortable travel.
Engineering s ervices for the project will include a base survey, evaluation of construction
techniques, area drainage analysis, and preparation of plans and specifications for a local bid
l etti ng. The contract will also include coordination with adjacent property owners, at
least one general public informational meeting, and coordination with right-of-way
users that may require relocation. This project will also create standard templates for mini-
roundabout intersections to promote inclusion into potential future projects within the City.
Staff distributed a Request for Proposal in June 2025 to solicit engineering services for the
project. Proposals for this work were received from five engineering firms and were evaluated
according to the following criteria: Project Understanding, Design Team, Previous Experience,
Ability to Perform Work, and Estimated Contract Cost. Listed below is the ranking information
based on this evaluation:
Engineering Firm Overall Rank Estimated Design Fee
Strand Associates, Inc.1 $ 58,800
Snyder & Associates 2 $ 31,800
ISG 3 $ 32,040
Shive-Hattery, Inc.4 $ 59,400
Nilles 5 $ 62,310
1
Given the above rankings, staff has negotiated a contract with the highest ranked firm, Strand
Associates, Inc. of Ames, Iowa. Strand's previous experience utilizing mini-roundabouts
in other municipalities was well demonstrated during the evaluation process in the
RFP. This real world experience is crucial to the success of this project and the first of
its kind implementation in the City of Ames.
This project was budgeted in FY 2025/26 of the Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) with funding
in the amount of $360,000 in Road Use Tax. The remaining funding will be used for the
construction and implementation of the mini-roundabouts.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Professional Services Agreement with Strand Associates, Inc. of Ames,
Iowa, for the 2025/26 Multi-Modal Roadway Improvements (Wilder Boulevard Mini-
Roundabout Corridor) in an amount not to exceed $58,800.
2. Direct staff to negotiate an engineering agreement with another consulting firm.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Based on staff evaluation using the selection criteria listed above, Strand Associates,
Inc. provides the best value to the City for design services of this project. Therefore, it is
the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as
noted above.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Wilder Map.pdf
4429.021.Signed.pdf
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