Engineering and design work has been approved for the W. Kansas Ave. water line improvements project, Ark City officials announced Tuesday.
The agreement was approved earlier this month by voice vote of the city commission, with an amount not to exceed $30,600. Ark City-based Smith and Oakes, Inc. has since entered into a design services agreement with the city.
Smith & Oakes will develop detailed engineering plans and specifications, including a standardized materials list. These efforts, city officials said, will streamline the future approval process with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and improve overall project efficiency.
This project is a part of continuing efforts to upgrade and improve the city’s aging water infrastructure.
The West Kansas Avenue area was selected as the starting point due to several favorable conditions, including minimal need for complex boring operations, low utility density, and open layout, which will facilitate both construction and hands-on training for city crews, according to a statement from the city.
“This phase presents a strategic opportunity for city personnel to build experience with waterline replacement procedures while the City continues to secure funding for equipment and project expansion,” Kyle Blubaugh, Environmental Services Superintendent.
Engineering work under the agreement will begin within 10 days of execution and is expected to be completed within 60 days. The agreement covers topographic surveying, design development, permitting, and final plan submission to KDHE. Funding for the project will come from the Capital Improvement Fund.
