Background/Discussion
In 2005, the City of Council Bluffs began the process for environmental clearances and preliminary designs for the East Beltway projects. The purpose was to improve the transportation network in eastern Council Bluffs by completing Eastern Hills Drive between US Highway 6 and Iowa Highway 92, while providing improved connections to developments along Greenview Road and Steven Road. The continuity for the local transportation system will support future land development, increases the capacity of existing roads to accommodate traffic demands and improves emergency access.
The design team for the East Beltway consisted of HGM Associates Inc., The Schemmer Associates Inc., and Snyder & Associates Inc. with HGM serving as the prime consultant.
The Steven Road West project is the final project associated with the East Beltway. The project will construct a new east-west roadway from Norwood Court to State Orchard Road. A trail will be constructed along the entire length of the project connecting with the recently constructed trail east of State Orchard Road along Steven Road.
Schemmer has already developed the preliminary design for the Steven Road West portion of the East Beltway as a part of the services provided by the three firm team from 2005. It is appropriate for Schemmer to continue their role as project engineer for Steven Road West. IDOT has programmed a new stand-alone project for this final segment and as a result a new engineering agreement is required. It is in the City’s best interest to select Schemmer for this project.
The project is included in the FY 22 CIP. Federal funding through earmarks and STBG funds will be used for 80% of the construction costs. The 20% City match and engineering costs will be paid using sales tax funds.