Service Committee clears CDBG-funded Wells Park playground bidding

The Newark City Council Service Committee voted 5-0 to authorize the service director to advertise for bids and enter into contracts, subject to appropriation, for the purchase and installation of a large playground unit at Wells Park.

City staff said the project will be fully funded with HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) dollars and that the existing playground unit at Wells Park has become worn and is becoming unsafe. The resolution (25-63) directs the service director to bid the project so the city can replace the equipment with a larger unit meant for many children to use for years to come.

Committee members voted to forward the bidding authorization to the full council. No change to the city’s appropriation was made at committee; staff indicated the project will be bid and brought forward for appropriation and contract award in accordance with normal procurement and CDBG rules.