Commission authorizes bid package 1 for Bank Street garage early work; members press contractor on weather and permitting risks

The Missoula Parking Commission voted to allow Jackson to solicit bids for Bid Package 1 — the structural early‑work package for the Bank Street parking structure — with the understanding the board will consider a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) at a future meeting.

Tyler Kirk, project representative for Jackson, told the commission the approach splits structural scope (Bid Package 1) from mechanical/electrical/plumbing and other work (Bid Package 2) so the structural work can begin early and the project can reach a traffic‑bearing membrane installation window in mid‑September if weather permits. "We want to get the structural components that are in design to build bid out now," Tyler said. He estimated Bid Package 1 at about $2.1 million and Bid Package 2 at about $1.3 million from the most recent budget of $3.48 million.

Commissioners pressed Jackson on schedule and risk. Tyler said the key weather constraint is a multi‑day run of above‑40°F temperatures in the September window and that permitting timelines and weather remain factors outside current control. He advised that when staff returns with GMPs, the contracts could include allowances for winter conditions (for example, tenting and heating) if work extended into colder months.

Jody summarized displacement and stakeholder coordination: early work will require moving some leaseholders temporarily. Top‑floor leaseholders were directed to park in the Riverside lot beginning June 2; bottom‑level leaseholders will be moved to Park Place Garage and must pick up prox cards by May 31 (cards will be provided after that date if needed). Staff said it had been coordinating notices with leaseholders, the Millennium building owners, First Interstate Bank, the Clark Fork River Market manager and the Downtown Missoula Partnership.

The formal motion to authorize Jackson to bid the work was made by Tiffany Brander and seconded by Mike Steinberg; the commission approved the motion in a roll call vote: JR Casillas — approve; Mike Steinberg — approve; Peter Walker — approve; Tiffany Brander — approve; Joe Easton — approve. Chair Joe Easton announced the motion passed.

Financing is not yet finalized; staff said Baker Tilly and Dorsey Whitney are advising on funding options and that financing decisions will follow after the board approves a GMP. Jody said a guaranteed maximum price for Bid Package 1 is expected to be returned to the board for approval at the June 3 meeting so demolition and preparatory work can begin in time for fall membrane installation.

Ending: With the motion approved, Jackson will advertise Bid Package 1. Staff will return with GMPs, permit updates and a financing plan for Bank Street at the June meeting.