Ferdinand Town Council Opens Quotes for Grit Removal System

In a special meeting of the Ferdinand Town Council on Tuesday evening, quotes were considered for a significant wastewater improvement project. 

The Town of Ferdinand solicited bids to replace its existing grit removal system, a Smith and Loveless Pista Grit Trap series. Grit removal separates sand, gravel, and other materials from wastewater. This extends the life of mechanical equipment by eliminating debris that can damage pumps, clog pipes, and accumulate throughout the wastewater system. Over time, even small amounts of grit can reduce treatment capacity. 

After closing the window to accept new submissions, the board opened sealed quotes for the grit removal system. The first bid was received from Kieffer Brothers Construction out of Mount Carmel, Illinois. They submitted a lump sum quote for furnishing and installing the grit removal system for $530,347.00, not including taxes or permit fees. The expected timeline is subject to date of contract signing and submittal. 

Graves Construction Services out of Switz City, Indiana also submitted a bid, with a cost estimate of $484,848.00. This is not inclusive of taxes, fees, or permits, or premium/overtime hours, or performance/payment bonds. Equipment delivery after notice to proceed would be 35-38 weeks, with a project closeout by June 4, 2027. Bids will be reviewed by Wastewater and Water Department Superintendent Ben Brinkman and taken under advisement. A recommendation will be made at the next meeting on August 18. 

For more information on these and other updates, visit www.ferdinandindiana.org 

- Drew Hasselbring