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Council moves forward with $406,900 pocket-park pavilion after low bidder withdraws
Summary
City staff recommended awarding a $406,900 contract to E and L Construction Group for a small pocket park pavilion after the lowest bidder withdrew because of a mathematical error; the award removes a drinking fountain and reduces light posts to fit the budget.
City staff recommended awarding a $406,900 contract to E and L Construction Group for construction of a small pocket park pavilion in New Iberia after the lowest bidder withdrew during the Feb. 19 bid opening, staff reported.
The recommendation followed the withdrawal of the apparent low bidder, JAI Construction, because of a mathematical error in its bid. To bring the project within available funding, staff accepted E and L Construction Group’s base bid with deduct alternate No. 2, which removes a site drinking fountain, and value-engineering allowances that reduce other nonstructural items such as mural allowances and some light-posts.
The project scope will retain pavilion lighting and reduce free-standing light posts from three to one. Staff said the single external light post will remain on at night, while pavilion fixtures will operate on a switching system. Staff also reported that allowances for murals and other finish work were set aside; community groups are expected to pursue additional funding for mural work rather than cut structural components.
City staff described the site as a small pocket park (roughly 30 by 60 feet), intended in part as a sheltered bus stop area for children during bad weather. The drinking fountain was described as a relatively costly item once plumbing and drainage work were included; staff cited a removal value on the plumbing alternate of roughly $2,300 as part of the savings package.
Staff said the changes preserve the “main meat” of the project — pavilion, electrical service and basic park furniture — while trimming finish items to meet the available budget. If safety or usage issues arise after construction, staff said they will return to council to request additional lighting or other modifications.
Next steps: staff will proceed with the recommended contract award and value-engineered scope; remaining aesthetic items such as murals are expected to be funded separately by community partners or future requests to council.
