The Rochester City Council is set to take the final step toward modernizing Silver Lake. On Monday night council members will vote on an $18,937,132.74 bid submitted by St. Michael‑based Rachel Contracting, LLC. The bid, the lowest of four received last month, also includes an optional dredging package priced at $729,269.10.
Project scope and cost estimate
The city’s public works staff recommends approval of the Rachel Contracting bid. While the original bid package was presented to council last year at $15.1 million, updated estimates now place the total cost at $20,988,366.05, with the city budgeting just over $21 million to cover contingencies.
The project will replace the existing Silver Lake Dam with a series of cascading pools, reshape the shoreline along West Silver Lake Drive, and construct a new pedestrian‑and‑bicycle bridge east of North Broadway. In addition, a walking‑and‑biking path will be added along the north shore of the lake, enhancing recreation opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Funding sources
Funding for the $21 million effort is a blend of local and state resources. The breakdown includes:
- $2.68 million from state funding
- $3,009,727 from Rochester Public Utilities
- $11,092,877.57 from the 1982 and 1989 Flood Control Funds
- $4,327,828.98 from the Stormwater Utility
These sources collectively cover the projected cost, allowing the city to move forward without imposing new taxes on residents.
Timeline
Work is slated to begin on October 12, pending council approval of the bid. The city’s engineers anticipate that construction will proceed in phases to minimize disruption to lake users and nearby neighborhoods.
Community impact
Local leaders emphasize that the dam upgrade will improve flood protection, enhance water quality, and create new recreational amenities. Residents can look forward to safer shoreline conditions, expanded trail networks for walking and biking, and a modern bridge that will improve connectivity between neighborhoods.
Council members are expected to discuss the bid, the optional dredging component, and the overall budget during the Monday night meeting. The decision will set the stage for a major infrastructure improvement that aligns with Rochester’s long‑term vision for a resilient, family‑friendly community.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
