Three engineering companies bidding on the construction aspect of the Johnson Street Bridge replacement project have been given an extra two days to complete their bids.

That means Nov. 1 marks the next landmark in the progression of the project. The three companies, pre-selected by the city, will submit their fixed-price bids on the job.

It's the third time the deadline has been extended to allow the companies more time to refine their bids. Each firm can submit multiple bids, offering different options.

Next, Victoria's bridge evaluation team will analyze the proposals and submit the one that best matches the city's criteria to council for approval.

The big question for council is whether the bids will fit within the project's $92.8-million budget. That means the construction contract must come in at or under $66 million.

"The expectation is they will hit the mark we set for them," said Coun. Chris Coleman. "If not, then we'll have to have a discussion."

The City of Victoria has already passed a bylaw to borrow $49.2 million for the project.

rholmen@vicnews.com