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Construction

Construction on $26.8M Renew Jordan Creek to Begin Mid-December

2024-12-05

With work set to commence on the first phase of the Renew Jordan Creek daylighting project in the coming months, Springfield is on the verge of a significant transformation. This ambitious endeavor aims to address multiple issues while enhancing the city's infrastructure and quality of life.

Unlock the Potential of Jordan Creek with Renewal

Project Overview

The first phase of Renew Jordan Creek, awarded to Branco Enterprises for a guaranteed maximum price of $26.8 million, is expected to be completed by late 2026. It encompasses a vast area between Main Avenue to the west and Boonville Avenue to the east, and Mill Street to the north and Water Street to the south. The project focuses on daylighting Jordan Creek, creating a naturalized open channel and integrating various amenities such as civic plaza spaces, greenway trail segments, pedestrian upgrades, green infrastructure, and a dog park.

Construction details are extensive, with the excavation of more than 38,000 cubic yards of soil. This work is set to enhance the natural beauty of the area while providing numerous recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Funding and Sources

The initial phase of Renew Jordan Creek will be funded through a diverse range of sources. ARPA grants, Environmental Services funds, ¼-cent capital improvement sales tax, and level property tax revenues will play a significant role. Additionally, the State Revolving Fund Loan program and a State Revolving Fund grant will provide crucial financial support. This multi-faceted funding approach ensures the sustainability and success of the project.

There is also an opportunity for philanthropic support in future phases, which could further enhance the project's impact and create additional public amenities.

Road Closures and Construction Impact

While local traffic and access will be maintained, major road closures are expected during the construction period. Water Street will close between Campbell and Boonville, and Boonville and Jefferson from mid-December through March 2025 for construction staging and utility work. In early 2025, Campbell between Water and Mill will close for about one year to divert Jordan Creek and reconstruct the Campbell bridge culvert.

Moving east, Boonville between Water and Mill will also close for about a year starting in late 2025 for the installation of a new box culvert and creek diversion, as well as the extension of the sanitary sewer system. The city will keep the public informed about additional road closures as scheduling information becomes available.

Preparatory Work and Utility Improvements

In preparation for Renew Jordan Creek, City Utilities is completing utility work around the project area. This includes the current closure of the intersection of Campbell and Olive Street and the closure of Water east of Boonville in the near future. Part of Mill will also be closed sometime in 2025 to align with the city's work schedule.

These utility improvements are essential for the smooth progress of the Renew Jordan Creek project and will enhance the overall functionality of the area.

The Springfield City Council has given the green light to the final plans and specifications for the Renew Jordan Creek phase one project. This significant undertaking aims to bring daylight to a part of the historic creek that winds through downtown Springfield. Years ago, due to flood control measures, the creek was diverted into a concrete culvert underground. Now, with the awarding of the construction contract to Branco Enterprises, Inc., the creek daylighting is set to commence with a Guaranteed Maximum Price of $26.8 million. The phase 1 project area encompasses two large blocks in the urbanized center of Jordan Valley Park, bordered by Boonville Avenue on the east, Water Street on the south, Main Avenue on the west, and Mill Street on the north. The project is expected to kick off shortly, with completion targeted for late 2026, marking a crucial step in restoring the creek as it flows through downtown Springfield.

Unveiling the Restoration of Jordan Creek in Springfield

Daylighting the Historic Creek

The Renew Jordan Creek project focuses on bringing back the natural light to the historic creek that has been hidden beneath a concrete culvert for years. By doing so, it not only restores the aesthetic appeal of the area but also helps in reconnecting the community with nature. This initiative is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving its historical and natural heritage.

With the approval of the construction contract, the work to expose the creek is set to begin. The process involves carefully removing the concrete and restoring the natural flow and habitat of the creek. This will have a positive impact on the local ecosystem and wildlife, providing a new habitat for various species.

The Construction Contract and Guaranteed Maximum Price

The city's decision to award the construction contract to Branco Enterprises, Inc. is a significant step in the Renew Jordan Creek project. The Guaranteed Maximum Price of $26.8 million ensures that the project will be completed within the budgeted amount. This provides certainty to the city and the community regarding the financial aspects of the project.

Branco Enterprises, with its expertise in construction and environmental restoration, is well-equipped to handle the challenges of this project. The company will work closely with the city to ensure that the creek daylighting is carried out in a timely and efficient manner, while maintaining the highest standards of quality.

The Project Area and Its Significance

The phase 1 project area, located in the urbanized center of Jordan Valley Park, is of great significance. It represents a unique opportunity to revitalize a part of downtown Springfield and enhance the quality of life for its residents. The area is bordered by important streets such as Boonville Avenue, Water Street, Main Avenue, and Mill Street, making it easily accessible and visible.

Restoring the creek in this area will have a ripple effect on the surrounding neighborhood. It will improve the aesthetics of the streets, increase property values, and attract more visitors and businesses. The project is expected to become a focal point for the community, fostering a sense of pride and unity.

The Timeline and Expected Completion

The Renew Jordan Creek project is set to get underway soon, with completion of phase one targeted for late 2026. This timeline provides a clear goal for the project and allows the community to anticipate the changes that will take place. The early start of the construction work will ensure that the project progresses smoothly and is completed within the scheduled timeframe.

As the project moves forward, the city will keep the community informed about the progress through regular updates and public meetings. This will allow residents to have a say in the project and provide their feedback, ensuring that the final result meets their expectations.

A tragic incident took place in Perry, Georgia, where a construction worker lost his life due to an accident on the job. On Thursday afternoon, at a worksite along Highway 127, the worker was unfortunately hit by a commercial forklift. Medics promptly rushed the individual to Houston Medical Center, but despite their efforts, the victim was unable to survive the injuries sustained. Perry Police Chief Alan Everidge expressed the department's thoughts with the victim's family during this difficult time. WMAZ has identified the victim as 29-year-old Andrew Williams Morgan. Police informed the news agency that Morgan was operating the forklift when he fell off and was run over. The Perry Police Department and investigators from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this accident.

Details of the Accident

The accident occurred in a bustling construction site, where safety protocols should have been strictly adhered to. The commercial forklift, a common piece of equipment in such work environments, played a crucial role in this tragic event. The victim, Andrew Williams Morgan, was in the midst of his daily work duties when the unexpected happened. His fall from the forklift and subsequent run-over highlight the importance of proper safety measures and training. Construction sites are inherently dangerous, and incidents like this serve as a reminder of the need for constant vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines.

Impact on the Victim's Family

The loss of a loved one in such a manner is an indescribable tragedy. Andrew Williams Morgan's family is now left to grapple with the pain and grief of his untimely death. During this difficult time, their support system becomes crucial. The community and law enforcement agencies are coming together to offer assistance and comfort to the family. It is a time of mourning and healing, as they try to make sense of the senseless loss. The investigation into the accident will not only seek to determine the cause but also aim to provide some closure to the family.

Lessons from the Accident

This fatal accident serves as a wake-up call for the construction industry. It emphasizes the need for enhanced safety measures, stricter enforcement of regulations, and improved training programs for workers. Construction companies must prioritize the safety of their employees and ensure that all necessary precautions are in place. Workers themselves should also be more aware of their surroundings and take proactive measures to prevent accidents. By learning from such tragedies, the construction industry can work towards creating a safer work environment for everyone involved.