Approval is requested for the award of a contract to Brown and Fesler, Inc., of San Ramon to modify the traffic signal at the Wolfe Road/Old San Francisco Road intersection for the Department of Public Works Project Administration Division (Project #TR-01/03-03).

The traffic signal at Wolfe Road and Old San Francisco Road/Reed Avenue was originally constructed in 1976 and was later modified in 1982 to add new traffic signal poles on Old San Francisco/Reed. Staff has now encountered several problems with the existing conduit structures and control equipment. Several conductors have failed due to aging, and all existing spare wires have been used. The traffic signal controller cabinet is no longer moisture proof and shows signs of water-related damage. In addition, the traffic signal controller is incompatible with other City equipment and cannot communicate with other equipment along the Wolfe Road corridor. Staff has determined that this intersection should be reconstructed to bring all control equipment, conduits and poles up to current standards.

Bid specifications were prepared by Public Works and Purchasing Staff. The Notice Inviting Bids was published in The Sun on February 5, 2003. The bid package was distributed to Bay Area Builders Exchanges and broadcast to potential contractors through the DemandStar by Onvia public procurement network. Sixteen contractors requested bid documents. Sealed bids were publicly opened on February 26, 2003.

Staff recommends acceptance of the bid from Brown & Fesler, Inc., the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

A determination was made that this project will have no significant effect on the environment in accordance with CEQA guidelines for categorically exempt projects.

Funds are available in the Infrastructure Renovation and Replacement Fund. General Fund Assets Sub-Fund, budgeted in Project #820190 - Traffic Signal Underground Replacement.

It is recommended that Council:

1. Award a contract in the amount of $168,036 to Brown & Fesler, Inc., for the Wolfe Road/Old San Francisco Road Signal Modification Project; and
2. Authorize a contingency in the amount of $25,205.