As a follow-up to my previous letter, I had secondary thoughts for the city to consider: Councilman Spencer told me no new construction would be allowed in Wear's Creek by USACE. Imagine that -- more federal overstep. That doesn't necessarily mean the whole concept of recycling suitable components of the existing structure can't be mixed in with new construction. If the bent in Wear's Creek needs replacement, possibly a steel girder span could be introduced to span that section from adjacent pier bents.

If the ultimate decision is to replace this bridge (if that is the real solution), Councilman Spencer indicated due to recent inflation, the cost may now exceed $15 million, and the start would be in the 2024-25 timeframe. This cost is huge in terms of the city's normal budgeting. How will the city fund this? The city has relied too much on grants; what are other sources to get an earlier start to negate continued inflation?

The normal design-build concept could be abandoned in favor of a value-engineering project. That means the city would write a proposal for a complete finished structure of whatever configuration to an acceptable construction company who would hire design and construction for a turn-key job. The evaluation doesn't necessarily mean low bidder would get the job as in traditional contract bids, as proposals could be evaluated based on cost, local participation and other non-cost parameters. (i.e. use of local planning/surveying design firms, local material suppliers and possibly appearance and innovative concepts).

By getting a running start to the finished product, the city could ease some of the probable inflation in the near term. This would put the city in an aboveboard and open process throughout, and we citizens would accept that openness and build trust with the final product knowing we got the best solution at the most reasonable cost. Still, I think the whole process should proceed carefully through before plunging ahead with a full replacement with normal construction methods.

My next letter will address the real needs of this structure from a historical perspective.

Print Headline: Your Opinion: Alternate solutions for viaduct

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