Greenbelt staff present $13 million remediation estimate for Armory; demolition estimated near $1 million
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Summary
City staff told council the consultant estimate to remediate the Greenbelt Armory is about $13 million; demolition rather than rehabilitation would cost roughly $1 million. Staff outlined a public engagement schedule with four meetings and said consultants will price three redevelopment concepts.
City staff reported to Greenbelt City Council that the consultant estimate to remediate the Greenbelt Armory stands at about $13 million; a demolition estimate provided separately was a little over $1 million.
Assistant City Manager Tim George and the City Manager said the consultant will present three concept options for the site's future and a public-engagement plan that includes four meetings: an initial briefing and three subsequent sessions with breakout groups. Staff said the third concept in the RFP is intended to capture resident ideas submitted during the engagement process.
Councilmembers asked for construction-cost estimates that will accompany each concept. The manager said once council gives direction on which concepts to pursue, the design team will prepare cost estimates for each option so the council can compare rehabilitation, demolition and build‑new scenarios.
Council discussed interim site uses. Staff said a short‑term composting operation in a fenced parking lot near the armory could provide ongoing, positive activity at the site that might deter vandalism. Staff said regular site checks and limiting attractive materials would also reduce vandalism risk.
Multiple council members urged restoration of roof repairs and other immediate waterproofing measures rather than only temporary tarps. Staff said they would provide the consultant report and remediation/demolition cost estimates to council and noted the decision on the armory’s future will be the council’s.
No formal action was taken during the work session; staff said they will return with the consultant’s priced concepts and a public-engagement timeline.