Changes made to the new road surface just put down on Jasper County Highway F-48 West between Newton and Interstate 80 were made due imperfections in the resurfacing. Jasper County Board of Supervisors Chairman Brandon Talsma addressed the issue at yesterday’s County Board of Supervisors meeting. He says parts of the new surface were grinded down and resealed by the contractor, who wanted full payment for the project despite the flaws.

“There were imperfections in how they were resurfacing it. Mike actually held their feet to the fire and said they either had to take a deduction in what they were going to get paid, or fix all the humps and bumps in the resurfacing.”

County Engineer Mike Frietsch feels the County has achieved the best outcome possible, given the circumstances.

“They did a sand seal on it. That’s the way the plans and specifications were developed for the project and the way the standards are written for the DOT that we have to comply with. That’s the box we’re put in and have to follow. The project was bid through the DOT and federal aid money is being used so we have to follow their requirements.”

Manatt’s Incorporated of Brooklyn, Iowa, was awarded the resurfacing contract, which was phase one of a three phase resurfacing of Jasper County Highway F-48 West from Newton to Colfax. Frietsch says phase two from Colfax to the South Skunk River covers approximately three miles and is expected to cost $3 million. Bids will be sought in November so the resurfacing can occur when construction season begins next year.