Drainage project ahead of plan

COLUMBUS - The Southeast Drainage Project in Columbus may be completed ahead of schedule.

The contract was executed in May 2006, and the completion date was scheduled for May 1, 2007. City Engineer Merlin Lindahl said the project might be completed next month by the contractor, M.E. Collin, which is using three separate excavation contractors.

One of the major aspects of the $2.3 million Southeast Drainage Project is creating a new diversion channel that will pass excess storm-water flows to the Platte River directly from Lost Creek Channel. Also included is the cleaning and regarding of the existing Lost Creek Channel from U.S. Highway 30 south to the Loup Canal.

The approximately 6.5 mile endeavor will benefit the City of Columbus as well as the neighboring property owners by reducing the potential of future flooding in the area, officials said.

Excavation materials from the south and central portions of the project is being hauled to Archer Daniel Midlands to construct a structural building pad site for the company's pending expansion.

Permits for the project came from the Nebraska Department of Roads, Platte County, Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality, Union Pacific Railroad and the Army Corps of Engineers.

M.E. Collins is using three excavation contractors and Kirkham Michael has provided all construction-phase services, progress meetings, shop drawing review, progress pay estimates, contract interpretations, construction staking, construction observation, record drawings and final inspections.