Membership,
We wanted to get an update out to everyone regarding the cove 9 bridge project. As many of you are aware with your prior approval, we have been in the 1st Phase (design) of the bridge project which is almost complete and will be looking to move into Phase 2 (construction) fall 2020. Below is a summary of where we are at now and the estimated timeline and process for Phase 2.
Current Bridge Update
ILPOA has performed the interim suggested recommendations from Cochran, our bridge design engineers, but unfortunately the only long-term fix is to replace the current structure.
Cochran Bridge Design
We have received the final Phase 2 cost estimate summaries from Cochran as they work to complete the last finishing touches on the design. The bridge design was based on member feedback from forms and surveys conducted by the bridge committee.
The bridge design that the committee worked with Cochran on is the most basic design achievable with addressing the existing issues with the current bridge. This design meets our community’s needs with a basic steel guardrail and is designed to provide a strong, low maintenance, long life bridge for the community in many years to come.
Phase 2 Net Cost Estimates
Cochran has provided the final cost analysis to the final design for Phase 2. Below is an overview of the cost to replace the Cove 9 bridge.
Membership Assessment
We will be sending out an assessment vote with the fall ballot to fund this critical project. Below is a breakdown of members responsibility if approved.
Construction Bid Process
We are targeting to start advertising the 2nd Phase of this project if approved in June 2020. Cochran is contracted for the bid process to ensure it is bid by as many qualified companies as possible and that the process runs smoothly. Like the design Phase of this project, we will allow members to suggest qualified construction companies to be considered. We will only consider suggested companies meeting the following criteria:
If you would like to suggest a company for consideration as a bidder, please have them send resume and proof of above requirements to bridgecommittee@ilpoa.org
Estimated Cost
We have been asked by members to give them an exact cost of a new bridge and unfortunately, it’s not that easy. Therefore, we cannot simply get a bid and give the membership a “hard” number. Here are the reasons why we can not secure a binding bid at this time.
Cochran has provided us with a very good estimate for us to obtain funding from members. We researched their estimate vs construction costs and found Cochran to be excellent at providing strong estimates for customers. Remember that any overage will be put towards roads.
Estimated Timeline
Below is the estimated timeline for Phase 2. Remember, this is just an estimate.
The team has put a ton of work and time into this project. We would like to sincerely thank this group for their work in Phase 1 and their continued support in Phase 2. The bridge committee consists of the following members: John Oeltjen, Mary Beth Huffman, Brian Nisbet, Gary Weber and Mike Dean. Thank you again on behalf of Indian Hills!
If you have any questions please feel free to email the committee at bridgecommittee@ilpoa.org
Thank you,
Mark McLean
President- ILPOA