Board of Commissioners to consider Blacks Mill Bridge replacement

DAWSONVILLE, Ga. – Dawson County Commissioners will consider a recommendation from Public Works Director David McKee regarding replacement of Blacks Mill Bridge when the board meets Thursday, Feb. 8, at 4 p.m.

The bridge has been closed for replacement since August when staff presented three options. The options included approving staff to work with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) on a surplus bridge option to offset the replacement cost.

However, the county has been informed there are no surplus bridge options available at this time. Staff has reviewed the new bridge replacement plan and believes the quickest, most cost effective solution is to contract with Southeastern Engineering Inc. (SEI).

Staff has requested funds from GDOT and was approved for up to $175,000 or 70 percent of construction costs. Staff is requesting approval of the SEI contract for professional services for the design of the new bridge structure.

The county financial contribution to the project will be provided by in-kind service and is not expected to impact the budget requiring an addition/amendment.

Dawson County historically contracts with an insurance broker firm to monitor the insurance market for pricing trends for negotiating insurance costs for employee and county premiums. The current contract with Northwestern Benefits exhausted all renewals on December 31. An extension of the contract was agreed upon which ends on Feb. 28, 2018.

Commissioners will consider a bid from ShawHankins for a one-year contract with a possible one-year renewal.

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