2026 Deck Sealing Program

The Elkhart County Highway Department awarded a county‑wide bridge deck‑sealing contract for ten county bridges. The work consists of sandblasting existing concrete bridge decks, applying an INDOT‑approved non‑epoxy concrete sealer, and providing full traffic‑control services (including MUTCD‑compliant plans, variable‑message boards for high‑volume sites, and coordination with emergency services). The contract is structured as a lump‑sum bid with a 10 % retainage, a $1,000 per day liquidated‑damage penalty for late final completion, and no extensions for weather or other delays. Two firms share the award: Tatman Sims and Pedigo Corp. (primary contractor) and Rieth‑Riley Construction Co. (milestone/sub‑contractor). Key points include: • Scope: sandblasting, sealant application, MOT, and associated engineering/management services for ten bridges (≈ 79,000 ft² total deck area). • Schedule: work must start on or after May 25 2026 and be fully completed by October 23 2026, with substantial completion required by October 2 2026. • Financials: bid bond 10 % of bid, performance bond 100 % of contract price, 10 % retainage, and $1,000/day liquidated‑damage charge.