MAKI PLEASED WITH RAIL INTEREST

SCOTT CITY - At least 30 contractors have expressed an interest in bidding on the first phase of a project for the construction of a rail spur into the Southeast Missouri Regional Port Authority.

Executive Director Allan Maki said Wednesday that 30 contractors had requested plans and specifications for the work, and he was "encouraged by the large number of inquiries."

"That level of interest indicates we should get a very competitive bid," he said.

Bids are due on Feb. 8 and Maki said he hopes the board of commissioners will be able to award a contract at its Feb. 11 meeting.

The first phase includes excavation, drainage and clearing work. The second phase will involve actual laying of rail into the port.

Completion of a rail spur into the port is the last major capital improvement that needs to be finished as part of the first phase of development.