MSU takes next steps on Grand Street underpass project

The Missouri State University Board of Governors tomorrow is scheduled to vote on the next step in a project that would improve and widen a Grand Street underpass on the south edge of campus.

MSU staff is recommending approval for a $362,700 contract to be awarded to Nabholz Construction Corp., according to the board's executive committee agenda for Wednesday afternoon.

If approved, Nabholz would serve as construction manager at risk for the project, which has a total budget of $3.8 million.

Matt Morris, vice president of administrative services at MSU, said via email the budget includes construction costs and a $323,160 contract awarded to engineering firm Olsson Inc. in the spring. Olsson was hired as consultant to provide design services, from schematics through post-construction, according to past reporting.

The project calls on improvements and an extension of the underpass that connects the campus to three parking lots that have more than 1,350 spaces. The project features an Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible ramp system and an elevator, as the tunnel constructed in the 1980s currently does not meet ADA standards.

Work is scheduled for completion by the end of May 2022, according to the board agenda.