Worthington selects Roselli Construction as construction manager at risk and Williams as owner's representative for outdoor pool project

Worthington City Council on March 17 approved two related resolutions to move the outdoor pool project forward: authorization to select Roselli Construction (as construction manager at risk for preconstruction services) and selection of Williams Architects as the city’s owner’s representative for the project. Both resolutions passed by council voice vote.

Why the two selections matter Staff told council that choosing a construction manager at risk (CMR) early in the design process helps the city control schedule, test alternate materials to manage cost risk (including tariff exposure) and coordinate work on a tight site adjacent to Thomas Worthington High School. The council-approved owner’s representative will provide an expert third‑party review of design documents, aquatics programming and construction sequencing.

Roselli Construction and site experience John Moorhead said the selection committee received six qualifications and interviewed three firms; it recommended Roselli Construction because the firm is already building the adjacent natatorium at Thomas Worthington High School and has site knowledge and personnel who could transition to the city project. In the meeting Toni Roselli and Capria Gross of Roselli said their team is experienced with nearby pool projects and will coordinate construction logistics and material alternatives to mitigate tariff pressures.

Williams Architects as owner’s representative Staff recommended Williams Architects for the owner’s representative role based on regional pool project experience. Nancy Weir, the Ohio regional manager for Williams, told council the firm has done hundreds of pool projects and will provide aquatics expertise, document review and coordination among the architect, CMR and city staff.

Procurement step and next actions Staff clarified that the current actions authorize Roselli for preconstruction services and Williams as owner’s rep; separate legislation will be required later to appropriate bond funds and authorize construction-phase contracting. Council members discussed phasing the work to limit disruption to the summer pool season and staff said they aim to start construction when the outdoor season ends so the pool can be reconstructed on an aggressive schedule.

Council action Council moved and approved both resolutions. The selection of Roselli authorizes preconstruction services; staff will return with bond legislation and the construction-phase contract when preconstruction clarifies final cost and schedule.