Background/Discussion
In January of 2016, a Record of Decision was signed for the East Beltway project. This completed a 7-year process for the documentation required to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
The East Beltway project has improved 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 State Orchard Road.
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. 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.
MidAmerican Energy Company has existing transmission poles that cross the proposed Steven Road. The poles are located on a private easement and are not in public right-of-way.
MidAmerican Energy Company will implement modifications to remove and replace three poles and remove and relocate one pole.mThe modifications will provide the required clearance above the proposed roadway for the 69kv transmission line.
In accordance with the agreement, the City will reimburse MidAmerican Energy Company based on actual costs for the work with no additional mark-ups. The estimated cost for the pole mitigation is $200,000.
The project is being funded with Federal funding from remaining earmarks of $1.2M and the City’s allocation of STBG funds. Federal funding supports 80% of the improvement costs. The remaining 20% of construction costs and utility relocation will be paid by the City using sales tax funds.