Bismarck to discuss upcoming improvements

BISMARCK — The bidding process for sidewalk improvements on East Main Street in Bismarck and renovations to the outside of the Bismarck Depot is expected to get under way soon. Bismarck Mayor Dennis Mayberry said the board of aldermen was going to meet with Tim Robbs of Taylor Engineering to discuss the plans Thursday night. The outcome of the meeting was not available as of press time.

“The meeting is for informational purposes only,” Mayberry said. “The sooner we can get this project out for bids, the better. That’s what we are going to talk about.

The new sidewalk will allow handicap accessibility for pedestrian and cyclist traffic. A major portion of the project is renovation of the old depot to provide adequate facilities for train passengers stopping in Bismarck for an excursion. The building will also serve as a community meeting place.

MoDOT has awarded  a $145,125 grant through the Transportation Enhancement Program to pay for the renovations. Under the grant guidelines, Bismarck had to contribute $40,000 and the Depot Committee had to contribute $10,000 from the grant it received from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The total amount for the grant with the local contribution is $195,125.

The new treatment plant project was also to be discussed during Thursday’s meeting. Mayberry said the board was going to get an update from Robbs on what the city’s next course of action will be.

On April 3 Bismarck voters approved a $2.5 million bond issue for a new treatment plant 109-42.

On Saturday, the Bismarck Depot Preservation Committee will have a a benefit auction. The auction will get under way at 9 a.m. in front of the Depot.

Chris Cline is a reporter for the Daily Journal. Contact him at 573-431-2010, ext. 114 or at ccline@dailyjournalonline.com.