The City of Centralia has opened bids on the construction of the new water plant. The lowest of the four bids was Korte and Luitjohan of Highland at a cost of 27-million-882-thousand dollars.
City Manager Kory Smith says that is over the engineer’s estimate of $25 to 26 million dollars, but is something they can work with.
Curry and Associates Engineers are now reviewing the bid documents.
Another bid opening is set for Thursday afternoon on the arterial water lines leading to the new plant. An April 14th bid opening is scheduled for the construction of the new Carlyle Lake Water Line from Boulder to the new water plant.
The city council is expected to be asked to approve the bids in late May or early June with construction possibly beginning as early as November.
Smith says the city is still seeking grant funds. Right now they have a $1-million federal grant obtained by Congressman Mike Bost. Another $4 to 5 million has been raised from surcharges on water bills for customers in the City of Centralia and satellite water systems. An EPA low-interest loan has been obtained to cover any remaining costs.
The new water plant replaces one that is nearly 100 years old.
