Waupaca’s final plan due May 2020

By Angie Landsverk

The plans for the reconstruction of Waupaca’s Main Street are nearing 60 percent completion.

“Last fall, we were at 30 percent. Now we’re about 50 percent,” said Dan Penzkover. a consultant project manager at Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. (SEH).

SEH is one of the firms the city hired for the project.

Penzkover was among those who provided an update about the project on April 22, during a public informational meeting at Danes Hall.

About 30 people attended the meeting.

He said 60 percent of the plans are to be completed by July, with 90 percent due to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation on Feb. 1.

The final plan is due May 1, 2020.

The project is to be let for bids on Nov. 10, 2020.

Four blocks of Main Street – from Badger to Granite streets – are scheduled for reconstruction in 2021.

Construction is scheduled to begin from April to November of that year.

“We’re going to stage the work to minimize the impact as much as possible,” Penzkover said.

They plan to focus on two blocks at a time.

The project includes replacement of the sanitary sewer and water main, as well as a new storm water system, Penzkover said.

“When we originally scoped it, we didn’t think we’d need any right-of-way,” he said.

However, temporary limited easements are needed from some property owners during construction.

Minimal permanent right-of-way acquisition is needed from three parcels.

Funding for the reconstruction project is 80 percent state/federal and 20 percent local.

Justin Berrens, the city’s public works director, said utility replacement will be 100 percent of the city’s cost.

He said it is undetermined if there will be special assessments.

It would be a “really small number if we do,” Berrens said.

Penzkover said accommodations will be made for property owners regarding deliveries.

The project includes bumpouts at intersections and various enhancements, such as plantings, benches, bike racks and decorative pavers.