In brief: Road contractor awarded $535,000

A six-year dispute between Spokane County and a Snoqualmie construction company has cost the county $535,000.

An arbitrator ruled in favor of Weber Construction in May but awarded it less than half the money originally requested by the firm. The decision was made public in this week’s county commissioner’s meeting agenda.

The country selected Weber to reconstruct Curtis Road, east of Cheney, in 1999. The 4 1/2-mile project was to cost $1.4 million.

Weber had planned to use material excavated at the site for fill and embankments. However, workers found numerous boulders that couldn’t be used, said Dan McMonagle, an attorney who represents Weber.

Weber officials asked for an additional $1.3 million for added costs, including hauling away the rocks and bringing in fill. The county argued that it was up to Weber to discover the site conditions before bidding.

A Spokane County Superior Court judge heard the company’s lawsuit in 2001. That case later was sent back for a new trial.Before heading back to court, the parties agreed to arbitration.

Attorneys on both sides said they were satisfied with the outcome.

TJ Meenach lanes are open to traffic

All four lanes of TJ Meenach Drive are now open to traffic.

The roadway underwent two weeks of repairs after an early June downpour washed away the curbing and some asphalt.

Crews will repaint the stripes this week.

Fair will celebrate completion of work

Spokane County officials today will celebrate the completion of $23 million in improvements made to the Fair and Expo Center over the past decade.

A dedication ceremony open to the public will start at 4 p.m. at The Plaza building at the fairgrounds. Tours will start at 5 p.m.