The Board of Aldermen on Thursday voted 4-1 to accept a $2.7 million plan to build a "shared use path" between Baker and Waterford parks. Alderman C. Paul Smith voted against the plan.

The path will connect the east and west side of the city with paths free from vehicle traffic by using open spaces in both parks. Construction will begin next summer and is expected to take 10 months to complete.

The plan from Mid-Atlantic Utilities Inc. was 42 percent more expensive than the only other bid seriously considered -- a $1.9 million joint proposal from Thomas, Bennett and Hunter and CLSI.

City officials said they were confident in awarding the project to the highest bidder.

"We feel we are getting the best project for the citizens," said city transportation planner Tim Davis.

Davis said the higher bid was awarded because of plans that would better integrate a tunnel to run under the Motter Avenue on- and off-ramps to U.S. 15.

"The concerns with the lower bid relate initially to the tunnel, the pedestrian tunnel," Davis said.

The proposal from Mid-Atlantic Utilities, he said, presented less risk for changes to cost and time for construction.

Chris Batten, project manager of the proposal that was rejected by a five-member selection committee composed of city staff, said his team's project was equal in quality and scope to the one adopted.

"I think there are some things that should be looked into here," Batten said at the aldermen's meeting. "I would appreciate an individual review of the two proposals."

Although the board already voted on the bid, Batten will be able to formally protest, according to city attorney Saundra Nickols. The losing bidders will also go through a "debriefing" to explain the faults found in their proposal.

Smith, the only dissenter, said he was concerned about the cost of the project but was not against the concept of a shared use path.

"I don't understand why it would be $1.1 million to put this tunnel ... under the ramps," he said.

Alderwoman Marcia Hall defended the project, which has been in planning since 1999.

"The word 'path' is accurate, but it's a little simple for what we're getting," she said.

The plan will also include a bridge over Carroll Creek, benches, fitness stations and a potential dog park.

"I'm just really happy we've gotten to this point," Hall said.

Post your comments » Round 2: Snow expected to fall today, Wednesday Fast on the heels of the largest 24-hour snowfall to hit the Frederick County since 1983, meteorologists are predicting another round of heavy snow and wind to hit today. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning Monday afternoon for the area, including Frederick County, and said 10 to 20 inches of snow is possible by Wednesday night. Weather-related closings, delays A list follows of weather-related closings and cancellations for this week. Fire and police blotter Police search for robber School closures cause makeup schedule revision Even though Frederick County Public Schools are closed today -- using the sixth snow day this school year -- the school system will not hold school on the Monday Presidents Day holiday as the first scheduled snow makeup day. Crowds pay respect to fallen marine Even U.S. Marines couldn't hold back tears Monday at the viewing of their colleague, Sgt. David Smith. The procession to the Frederick Christian Fellowship Church was led by Frederick County Sheriff's deputies. Dressed in full military regalia, Marines carried Smith's casket into the church followed by family members as more Marines stood at attention.