County awards design-build contract for Lincoln Park concession stands and batting cages
Get AI-powered insights, summaries, and transcripts
Sign Up Free
Summary
The board approved a design-build contract to renovate concession stands and add batting cages at Lincoln Park, approving a staff-recommended contractor and a project budget that includes a contingency and anticipated city cost share.
Upson County approved a design-build contract for Phase 2 of the Lincoln Park improvements, a project that includes demolition of an older concession stand and construction of new concession facilities and batting cages. Staff explained the county previously split the overall ball-field work into two phases; Phase 1 — turf, fencing and drainage improvements — is complete, and Phase 2 focuses on concessions and related amenities. After two unsuccessful bid cycles with a different delivery method, staff issued a request for proposals under a design-build approach. The county received one responsive proposal; staff recommended awarding the work to the submitting contractor and asked the board to approve a contingency. The contractor’s estimated cost was about $1.1 million; staff recommended adding approximately 25% (about $295,000) as a contingency, bringing the total project budget to roughly $1.476 million. Staff noted the city’s anticipated contribution of about 32% (approximately $427,000) and said the county had briefed the city manager; the county will ask the city council to approve a matching contribution. Commissioners discussed the procurement approach and cautioned that the design-build method can limit competition for smaller local contractors. The commission moved and approved the staff recommendation to proceed with the contract and the contingency; staff said a final contract would require further scope and cost validation, and the county would retain the option to walk away if the design phase revealed unacceptable costs. Action: Motion to approve the county’s recommended contractor and the project budget (including contingency) passed; staff will coordinate with the city for its corresponding approval. Why it matters: The project funds and contract commit substantial county SPLOST or capital funds to park improvements that county leaders say will support recreation and regional tournaments; city cost sharing will be required to proceed with construction.