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Commission okays $4,500 to close shortfall on Marston Dunlap parking project
Summary
After discussing bid and grant shortfalls, the Conservation Commission authorized an additional $4,500 from its fund to help complete the Marston Dunlap Conservation Area parking lot project.
The Bedford Conservation Commission authorized an additional $4,500 from the conservation fund at its Feb. 25 meeting to cover a shortfall on the Marston Dunlap Conservation Area parking lot project.
Why it matters: The parking project is part of a 2023 grant award intended to provide public parking and trail access at the Marston Dunlap Conservation Area. Because final bids and some design costs exceeded earlier estimates, the commission was asked to cover the remaining gap to allow the contractor to proceed.
Budget background and discussion: Staff told commissioners the original grant request was for roughly $41,000 but the grant award and available funds totaled about $36,000. The most recent low bid from the contractor was reported as about $44,484; staff explained differences arose because the grant limits reimbursable design costs to 10% and the final design invoice exceeded the budgeted design envelope. Staff presented a spreadsheet showing the split between grant-covered costs and the portion expected to come from the conservation fund.
Commissioners discussed options to reduce cost — for example reducing the number of parking spaces from 10 to eight — but noted that a redesign could add expense. Staff also said the town might be able to supply recycled asphalt or other underlayer materials to reduce contractor costs.
Outcome: The commission voted to authorize an additional $4,500, bringing the commission's total commitment from the conservation fund to $16,200 for the parking construction. Joanne Smith made the motion and Kathleen (conservation planner) seconded; members voted "aye" and the motion carried. The contract cannot be executed until the fund authorization is in place.
Project details and next steps: The parking plan provides 10 spaces including one handicap space and room for a picnic table and kiosk; a Boy Scout volunteer is expected to construct a kiosk. The timeline discussed assumes start of construction in March or April, weather dependent. Staff will work with the low bidder on scope adjustments and confirm whether town-supplied materials can offset costs.
