JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
A contract for the relocation and installation of a new force main sewer line in Kimball was unanimously approved by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen during this month’s meeting.
City engineer Matthew Tucker, of James C. Hailey & Company, explained that five contractors expressed interest in the project, with three submitting official bids. Among them was James N. Bush Construction of Silver Point, Tennessee, which submitted the lowest bid at $778,620. Tucker noted that his team has worked with the company in the past and praised it as a reputable contractor serving much of Middle Tennessee.
“My recommendation to the Board tonight is that you all make the award to Bush,” Tucker said.
The project had been approved for bidding in March following discussions with a representative from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT). Plans call for the force main to run beneath the interstate overpass and eventually connect to infrastructure within the city limits of South Pittsburg. A detailed project budget was presented to the Board, listing a total of $966,520, with a 20% local match. Combined funding from Marion County and an ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) grant amounts to $998,994.85.
Alderman John Matthews inquired about the anticipated start date for construction. Tucker responded that, following the completion of necessary paperwork, work could begin by mid-July. The project is expected to be completed by late spring of next year.
The Board officially accepted James N. Bush Construction’s bid and authorized Mayor Rex Pesnell and City Attorney William Gouger to sign all required documents, moving the project forward with its next phase.
