HomeMy WebLinkAboutA014 - Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for the construction of the 2022/23 Bridge Rehabilitation Program (S. 4th Pedestrian Bridge over Ioway Creek)ITEM #:16
DATE:01-27-26
DEPT:PW
SUBJECT:2022/23 BRIDGE REHABILITATION PROGRAM (S. 4TH PEDESTRIAN
BRIDGE OVER IOWAY CREEK)
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
This project includes constructing a prefabricated pedestrian bridge over Ioway Creek along
the southeast side of the existing bridge on S. 4th Street, and constructing a shared use path
from the north side of the pedestrian bridge to the intersection of S. 4th Street & University
Blvd, as shown in the attached map. This shared use path will provide connectivity from
University Blvd across Ioway Creek along the south side of S. 4th Street.
Staff has been working with WHKS & Co. of Ames, Iowa to develop plans and specifications
for construction of the project with a total estimated construction cost of $1,603,006.40. The
table below shows estimated expenses and revenues for this project:
Expenses Amount Revenues Amount
Design $ 95,000.00
Construction (current
estimate)$ 1,603,006.40
Contract
Administration $ 50,000.00
FY 22/23 Bridge
Rehab G.O. Bonds $700,000
Iowa State University
Funding (estimated)$80,200
Skunk River Trail
Redirected Local
Option Funding
$800,000
FY 23/24 Bridge
Rehab Road Use Tax $300,000
Totals $ 1,748,006.40 $1,880,200
The prefabricated steel bridge market has seen significant cost increases since this project
was programmed, including significant volatilities in the Ipe (or Brazilian walnut) wood market,
which is used for the bridge deck. At its July 22, 2025 meeting, the City Council directed
staff to utilize a portion of the Skunk River Trail (E. Lincoln Way to SE 16th Street)
funding to facilitate the completion of this project, while pursuing other alternatives for
the Skunk River Trail crossing of Ioway Creek. The table above shows $800,000 in
Skunk River Trail Local Option funds for this project. The table also shows $300,000 in
Road Use Tax funds from the FY 23/24 Bridge Rehab (E. 13th Street Skunk River
Bridge) project that staff recommends reprogramming to this project. The E. 13th Street
Skunk River Bridge project will be added back at a later time in a future CIP.
1
The existing S. 4th Street roadway bridge over Ioway Creek is expected to have approximately
25-30 years of remaining service life before replacement is needed. The proposed
prefabricated pedestrian bridge is anticipated to last well beyond that timeframe. Should the
future roadway bridge replacement be constructed with an integral shared-use path, the
prefabricated pedestrian bridge has included several design elements that make relocated of
the pedestrian bridge possible. These include an ipe wood deck in lieu of concrete and a
painted finish to protect steel members from salt spray from the adjacent roadway. Although
these decisions increase the initial construction cost, they improve durability and
flexibility, resulting in a stronger long-term investment in the City’s bridge
infrastructure.
Shared use-path construction is anticipated for the summer of 2026. Due to significant lead
times for the pedestrian bridge, it is estimated the bridge, and path connections to the bridge,
are installed in spring 2027. Staff has coordinated extensively with the Iowa State University
and adjacent properties regarding the construction activities for this project, and will provide
additional coordination as construction progresses.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve preliminary plans and specifications for the construction of the 2022/23 Bridge
Rehabilitation Program (S. 4th Pedestrian Bridge over Ioway Creek), setting February
18, 2026, as the bid due date and February 24, 2026, as the date of Public Hearing for
report of bids.
2. Do not move forward with this project.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This project will complete a significant bicycle and pedestrian connection for all users
of the area, including large special events. Approval of the plans and specifications will
continue to keep this project on pace for 2026-2027 construction. Therefore, it is the
recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as
described above.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Map.pdf
2