To: Aaron Rector, Interim City Manager
From: Alonzo Liñán, Director of Public Works
Subject:
Title
Consider a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute an updated Interlocal Agreement with Tarrant County for the South Elm Street Reconstruction Project; and authorizing the City Manager to execute said agreement.
Action Requested:
Approve a resolution authorizing an updated Interlocal Agreement with Tarrant County, Exhibit “A”, for County Bond Funds related to the reconstruction of South Elm Street.
Background:
As part of the Tarrant County 2021 Transportation Bond Program ballot initiative, Keller’s S. Elm Street reconstruction project was approved by voters. As a result, the county will reimburse up to 50% of the costs to reconstruct South Elm Street not to exceed $7,590,000 from the County. Any costs beyond this amount will be the responsibility of the City.
An interlocal agreement was originally approved in November 2023 in the amount of $5,750,000. Subsequent to that approval, city and county officials met to discuss further funding opportunities, with the county agreeing to provide additional project funding in the amount of $1,840,000.
In April of 2021, South Elm Street was part of a list of 4 roadways submitted by Keller to be considered as part of the county bond initiative (Resolution #4352). Those other roadways were Mt Gilead (US377 to Bourland), Bourland (Mt Gilead to Johnson), and Shady Grove (Keller Smithfield to Smithfield). As part of the competitive evaluation against other county roadways, it was determined that South Elm Street had the best chance of being successful. In November of 2021, this proved to be correct.
The interlocal agreement outlines the project scope:
“Reconstruction of South Elm Street from Bear Creek Parkway to FM 1709. This project consists of widening and reconstructing approximately 0.60 miles of existing two-lane undivided concrete urban collector, including street parking, curb and gutter, internal drainage, water and sewer lines, streetlights, shared use paths and crosswalks.”
The interlocal agreement also outlines the terms and conditions for funding reimbursement:
“The COUNTY agrees to reimburse the CITY for 50% of the actual eligible PROJECT costs in an amount not to exceed $7,590,000.00. Any reimbursement request from the CITY should include:
1) a copy of the invoice or billing for design services, right-of-way acquisition purchase, and construction; and
2) a copy of the check, a certification letter, or other documentation to verify the
CITY’s proof of payment. The final reimbursement payment to the CITY will be contingent upon the City Manager or Mayor providing written notification to the COUNTY that the project is complete along with identification of final project costs.”
The project is already underway with most of the public right of way and utility easements secured and overall design at 95%. The design is expected to be completed in early summer 2024 with construction to begin in late summer of 2024.
Financial Impact:
Funds are budgeted in the Street System Capital Improvements Project Fund with funding provided by the General Fund and Tarrant County bond funds.
Citizen Input/Board Review:
Not applicable.
Legal Review:
The Interlocal Agreement has been reviewed and approved by the City Attorney.
Alternatives:
City Council has the following alternatives:
- Approve as submitted
- Approve with changes
- Denial
Council Action:
Staff recommends approval of the proposed resolution as presented.