Council approves $280K amendment for Pennoni's JC Park design contract

During the City Council meeting on June 4, 2025, significant discussions centered around the amendment to the design contract for JC Park, specifically regarding the incorporation of construction administration services. Bill Corbett from the Public Works Department presented the amendment, clarifying that it would not require additional funding but rather an allocation of previously budgeted money. The total value of the design contract will increase to $850,000 with this amendment.

Corbett emphasized the importance of having the engineer of record, Pennoni, also serve as the construction engineering inspector (CEI). This approach is intended to ensure continuity and efficiency, as the engineer is already familiar with the project’s design and intent. The council members expressed support for this strategy, recognizing that it could mitigate potential issues during construction by having someone with firsthand knowledge on-site.

Additionally, the contract extension will add 350 calendar days to accommodate the construction phase, which was not included in the original agreement that only covered the design and bidding processes. Council member Killery highlighted the necessity of effective oversight in the field, suggesting that having experienced personnel directly involved in construction would enhance project outcomes.

The discussions underscored the city’s commitment to ensuring that projects like JC Park are managed effectively, with a focus on utilizing existing resources wisely. The council's approval of the resolution is expected to facilitate a smoother transition into the construction phase, ultimately benefiting the community with improved oversight and project execution.