The Aronson Bypass Trail project will include design and construction administration services for a new trail connection from the existing trail north of Alkali Creek road and west of Aronson Avenue extending eastward under the Aronson Avenue bridge through parkland along Alkali Creek and then parallel to Swords Lane connecting to the existing sidewalk along the north side of Airport Road.  The City of Billings has received funding through the Federal-aid Community Transportation Enhancement Program (CTEP) to extend this segment of the Heritage Trail. In November 2012 the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) issued a notice to proceed with the selection of a consultant. In February 2013, proposals were solicited from 4 firms selected from the list of firms on file at Billings Public Works Department Engineering Division who were pre-qualified consultants to provide professional design and engineering services and construction oversight for Roads and Multi-use Paths.  Two firms responded and Sanderson Stewart was selected as the top firm to enter into contract negotiations. The negotiated fee for their services is $52,245.00. See contract Attachment A.  If the contract is approved and signed, Sanderson Stewart will be available to begin work immediately. The project is scheduled to be completed by December 2013.

The City Council can approve the contract for Aronson Bypass Trail at Swords Park or not approve the contract.  Not awarding a contract will delay or terminate the project.  

This trail extension is a Federal-aid Community Transportation Enhancement Program (CTEP) project.  The total anticipated engineering and construction costs are $237,350.  CTEP is funding $205,498 (86.58%) of the project.  Local match funding is $31,852 (13.42%) with Recreational Trails Program contributing $27,000 and BikeNet contributing $4,852. 

Staff recommends Council approve the Aronson Bypass Trail at Swords Park contract for professional engineering services with Sanderson Stewart for $52,245.00.