Woodstock Metra station could receive up to $370K in improvements

Woodstock's Metra station soon could see improvements.

Woodstock City Council members on Tuesday will consider an intergovernmental agreement with the Regional Transportation Authority's Commuter Rail Division for repairs and improvements for the station. Union Pacific Railroad owns the station, but Metra is responsible for most maintenance costs, according to city documents.

Woodstock recently completed a facility easement through engineering and architect company Wold Ruck Pate. Metra's Engineering Department since has approved the report and city officials now must give the OK on a funding agreement.

Metra has dedicated $370,000 for the project, which will fund repairs and construction engineering costs, according to city records. Repairs include tuck-pointing, repainting all exterior doors and windows, securing gutter downspouts, replacement of sidewalks, replacing and resetting uneven brick pavers and adding limestone base around the perimeter of the building, and a new roof, city records show.

"Through this agreement, Woodstock will manage the work ensuring that bids are let, that they are competitive and that the work is completed in a good and workmanlike manner in accordance with the project scope and this agreement," said Public Works Director Jeff Van Landuyt in a memo to the City Council. "This will include but not be limited to receiving, reviewing and retaining properly executed payrolls, time records, invoices, contracts, etc. The city will invoice Metra for work that has been completed."

Under the proposed timeline, bidding would open in March with an award to be given by April. Construction would begin in May with the project being substantially completed by August.

Metra's Board of Directors still would have to OK the agreement after Woodstock City Council members approve it.

The Woodstock City Council will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall, 121 W. Calhoun St.