The Port Authority opened bids yesterday for the next construction contract on the North Shore Connector and, for a change, the apparent low bid pleased project officials.

The $39.7 million bid came from Brayman Construction Co., of Saxonburg. While it was about 33 percent above engineering estimates, it was lower than expected.

"There was good competition and, considering price escalation of steel, concrete and energy, our worst fears were not realized," authority Operations Manager Winston Simmonds said.

The bid covers about a third of the 1.2-mile light-rail extension, including the steel superstructure to carry tracks above Allegheny Avenue and building the shell of an elevated, free-standing Allegheny Station.

Four firms submitted bids. Mr. Simmonds said authority officials will spend the next month evaluating Brayman's bid for compliance with contract specifications and working out a financial plan.

Remaining contracts would cover such items as station finishes, tracks, the overhead wiring and power distribution systems, signals, lighting and communications.