HomeMy WebLinkAboutA020 - April 28, 2026, Regular Meeting of the Ames City CouncilITEM #:24
DATE:04-28-26
DEPT:ELEC
SUBJECT:69KV TRANSMISSION LINE RECONSTRUCTION FROM TOP O HOLLOW
SUBSTATION TO AMES PLANT SUBSTATION
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Electric Services is undergoing a multi-year process t o reconstruct portions of its aging 69kV
transmissi o n s y s t e m . This portion o f the project will replace approximately two miles of
transmission line. This is the second of four reconstruction phases. The first phase,
reconstructing lines between Mortensen Road and Vet Med substations, has been completed
in the current fiscal year; this second phase will be completed in FY 2026/27.
O n January 2 3 , 2024, City Council awarded a contract to D G R Engineering of R o c k Rapids,
Iowa to design this project. DGR will also provide ongoing construction management support.
Funding for this project will come from the Capital Improvement Project budget for 69kV
Transmission Reconstruction, which includes $4,700,000 for FY 2026/27.
The engineer's estimate for this second phase of reconstruction is $3,700,000. The attached
map indicates the location of the first two reconstruction phases of the project.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve preliminary plans and specifications for the 69kV Transmission Line
Reconstruction from Top O Hollow substation to Ames Plant substation project, set May
27, 2026, as the bid due date, and set June 9, 2026, as date of Public Hearing and
award of contract.
2. Do not proceed with the project at this time.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The 69kV transmission system located around the City is crucial to maintaining a reliable
electric grid for the City's Electric Service customers. Staff has completed the first of four
phases (Mortensen to Vet Med) to reconstruct the aging 69kV transmission system and would
like to proceed with phase two (Top O Hollow to Ames Plant) to ensure the entire 69kV
system is replaced within a timely manner and remains reliable. Therefore, it is the
recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as stated
above.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Map for CAF 69kv Reconstruction.jpeg
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