by Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian
The Uvalde County Commissioners approved a bid for CDBG-CFC 22-001 Knippa Water Improvements which consists of installing a new water pump and an additional water line to go under the Union Pacific Railroad Tracks and Highway 9o which would help supply water south of town and along Ranch Road 1049.
According to Uvalde County Grant Writer Carl Esser, who presented the bid and the project to the Commissioners, he said after advertising the bid, one bid was received for $589,326.50 to provide additional water sources south of Highway 90.
A second alternate bid item covers a new water pump and a generator. A bid amount was received for $737,632,50 which was approved by the Court. According to Esser, the County has $855,000 from grants that can be used for construction. It was mentioned at the meeting the project was #275K over budget.
The Uvalde Hesperian spoke with Esser after the Commissioners Court meeting and he said the existing water pump was affected by the 2021 February Winter Storm that brought extremely low temperatures and snow to the area which resulted in power outages for many across Texas. The demand for water increased, putting strain on the town’s water pump. According to Esser, the new pump will better prepare the water system for future events.
Esser said the a
