Stanislaus County supervisors are considering reallocating funds to support $26.8 million in infrastructure improvements for the Colorado-Rouse area in west Modesto. The area, which is unincorporated and bordered by South Avenue, Garden Avenue, Sutter Avenue, and Sunset Avenue, has been identified as needing upgrades such as storm drainage, sidewalks, and wastewater systems.
The proposed funding comes from several sources: $20.3 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), $5 million from the City of Modesto, and $9.6 million from the state. To reach the target amount for the project, nearly $3.6 million in ARPA funds would be shifted from the Herndon project between south Modesto and Ceres, along with $600,000 in community infrastructure funds previously allocated to Herndon. An additional $900,000 would be moved from the Bystrum neighborhood sidewalk project to Colorado-Rouse.
Despite these efforts, there remains a shortfall of about $1.7 million for the project. According to a county staff report, there are currently not enough funds available to proceed with improvements in both Herndon and Bystrum neighborhoods; those projects will be paused until further funding is found.
County Public Works officials have been discussing potential solutions with the Stanislaus Council of Governments regarding Measure L grant funds that could help cover the remaining gap. Another option under consideration is using road maintenance funds if other resources are depleted.
Staff have recommended that supervisors approve a construction contract with George Reed Inc., which submitted a low bid of $21.8 million among five companies considered in September. MNS Engineers is also recommended for a $2.6 million contract for construction management services.
The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday at Tenth Street Place in Modesto to discuss these proposals.
