Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Department of Public Works

 

TO:

Mike Wildgen, Dave Corliss, Debbie Van Saun

FROM:

Chuck Soules

CC:

Terese Gorman, David Woosley

Date:

January 18, 2005

RE:

January 18, 2005 Agenda Item

 

Please include the following item on the City Commission agenda for consideration at the January 18, 2005 meeting:

Engineering Contract - 19th & Louisiana Intersection Renovation Project/Roundabout.  The anticipated scope of work for the engineering contract will include evaluation of four alternatives for the eventual construction of a roundabout at this intersection and completion of a pre-design report.

 

Project History.  This project has a fairly long history that began with a study in 2000.  Several public meetings were held and alternatives such as widening the intersection to include two through lanes and dual left turns were discussed.  The recommendation to construct a roundabout was included in the Louisiana Traffic Calming Study.  Additional information regarding this project was provided as part of the 01/11/05 City Manager’s Report to the City Commission.   For information concerning roundabouts go to http://www.roundabouts.net/roundabouts.html

Project Status.  Staff requested engineering proposals from six local firms including Bartlett and West, BG Consultants, Landplan Engineering, Peridian, PEC, and EBH.  Two proposals were received and reviewed by the Director of Public Works, City Traffic Engineer and the City Engineer.  The proposals were evaluated on several criteria, including:

·         Commitment of staff.

·         Ability to perform within time frame.

·         Past performance.

·         Previous experience with similar work.

·         Work commitment that could limit performance.

·         Accessibility of firm’s office.

·         Firm’s familiarity with project area.

·         Firm’s knowledge of project procedures.

·         Firm’s consideration of project problems/issues.

·         Thoroughness of presentation.

·         Communication issues.

·         Ability to work with public.

·         Professionalism, comfort level with firm.

·         Overhead costs.

·         Schedule.

·         References.

 

The proposal submitted by BG Consultants is being recommended, based on their responsiveness to the aforementioned criteria.  Contract terms have been negotiated resulting in a proposed engineering contract for $37,180.08

 

Project Details.  The scope of the proposed engineering agreement includes the development of a pre-design report including four alternative roundabout layouts; meetings with stakeholders, neighborhoods, Lawrence High, KU, and City Commission; survey work; and pedestrian study.  A summary of input gathered from the meetings and the alternatives considered along with a recommended design will be presented to the City Commission prior to proceeding to final design.  We have already contacted the school district and it is our intent to invite a representative from the school (site council, board, or staff), KU, and the adjacent neighborhoods to work with staff and the engineer in the development of any alternatives.

 

Project Funding.  This is a muti-year funded project.  In July 2003 the City Commission approved the issuance of bonds for the 6th and Lawrence and 19th and Louisiana projects.  Upon completion of the 6th and Lawrence project, $65,000 remains for 19th and Louisiana.  In November 2004 the City Commission approved an additional $250,000 in bonds for this project.

 

Upon development of the alternatives, construction estimates will be established.  The Louisiana Traffic Study estimated this project to cost $545,000.  Therefore, pending the development of the alternatives and construction estimates, additional authorization may be needed.

 

Action Request.  Authorize City Manager to enter into a contract with BG Consultants for a pre-design report for the intersection at 19th and Louisiana in the amount of $37,180.08.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Charles F. Soules, P.E.

Director of Public Works

 

CFS/je