The Ray County Board of Commissioners awarded an $8.2 million contract Monday to reconstruct County Road 137, clearing a major hurdle for the planned Costco development in the area.

Schaefer Contracting submitted the low bid of $8,230,572.30 for Contract 25506 during a four-minute special session. The company is already working on Highway 94 improvements and roundabouts in Monticello, according to Highway Department official Chad.

"They're fully embedded to this area for the next summer and a half," Chad told commissioners. "I think that's why we got good prices." He recommended awarding the contract to ensure timely completion of the project.

Commissioner Holland acknowledged the pressure surrounding the project, thanking Chad for his work despite challenges from Costco and other parties. The road reconstruction has drawn significant public attention due to its connection to the retail giant's development plans.

The Highway Department will submit a local road improvement program grant application and present it to the board at their Aug. 19 meeting before construction can begin.