Council approves Jones Dog Park contract to low bidder Midwest Concrete at $1.497 million

The council approved awarding the Jones Dog Park construction contract to the low bidder, Midwest Concrete Inc., at the Sept. 9 meeting. Steve Krug (Parks & Recreation) said the Jones Dog Park was included in the August 2021 adaptive reuse study for the former Jones Golf Course. The planned park will include a main dog area, a small-dog area, a divided training area, and a rentable area with a shelter. The facility will have an accessible parking lot, fully accessible paved walking areas, water, electrical service and portable restrooms, Krug said. The estimated project cost was $1,800,000; city staff received nine bids on Aug. 27 ranging from $1,497,000 to $2,088,000 and recommended awarding to Midwest Concrete Inc. for $1,497,000. Council approved the award on a voice vote after staff presentation. Council members commented on bid response and cost estimates; one council member noted a public discussion about restroom and infrastructure costs, observing that a public restroom can cost roughly $300,000 when accounting for piping, durability and seasonal requirements. Public Works and Parks staff will finalize contract details and schedule construction.