Jackson OKs traffic signal near new school

The city of Jackson is one step closer to finalizing plans to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Lacey and East Main streets after Monday night's board of aldermen meeting.

After reviewing four bids from independent contractors, the board accepted one from Lappe Cement Finishing of Perryville, Missouri.

Jackson public works director Rodney Bollinger said the winning bid of $274,576.20 was the lowest of the bids submitted and includes all aspects of the construction.

"That covers pavement, signals, utility relocation and we're even putting sidewalks in," Bollinger said.

The signal was proposed after MoDOT conducted a traffic study in 2013. It is intended to ease the expected traffic congestion that is likely to result from the opening of East Elementary school near that location.

As part of the approval process, the board also approved temporary construction easements from the surrounding properties and authorized the contract agreement with Lappe Cement Finishing, Inc.

Bollinger explained the board's approval was the last requirement for the signal, and that construction can begin after design work is completed.

Design and inspection fees will be another $42,345, to be completed by Koehler Engineering and Land Surveying of Cape Girardeau.

Bollinger said the project is on track to be installed before school begins in the fall.

"They'll have 150 days to complete construction, which should put [the signal] operational around the first week in July," Bollinger said. "We're anticipating a lot more traffic once the school opens in August. This way, we'll be able to give motorists plenty of time ... to acclimate to having a signal there before the first day of school."

tgraef@semissourian.com

388-3627

Pertinent address:

Lacey Street, East Main Street, Jackson