By Roger Pitt
The Post-Crescent
August 23, 2004
A connection to the city’s storied past will be retained by Kaukauna Utilities when it rebuilds the parking area at the Operations Building at 777 Island Street.
While the six arches and the stone wall featuring them will be replaced, design features of the new concrete retaining wall will include simulated arches and stone at a cost of $44,844. Neenah’s Miron Corp. was low bidder with a combined bid of $417,844 to replace the wall and reconstruct the upper parking lot.
“I like to see the arches as part of the project,” said Commissioner Robert Lamers. “They are part of the city’s history.”
“I like the look of the arches,” said Mayor John Lambie. “It is Kaukauna. The arches go back to a time when there was a water wheel and park west of the parking lot.”
Commission member Lance Goetzman asked how the arches and blocks would be highlighted if they are part of a concrete wall.
Mike Pedersen, utilities generation superintendent, said the forms for the concrete will have patterns for the block and arches. The highlights will be painted after the concrete sets.
“We were surprised by the low bid,” said Bruce Gomm, utilities manager of engineering. “The estimates of the project were much higher.”
The rebuilt lot will have parking for 30 vehicles. The entry off Dodge Street also will be widened. Work on the parking lot is expected begin by the end of August.
