Civic Center Commission approves higher bids, authorizes architect and OPM funding

The Worcester City Civic Center Commission on May 29 voted to accept several higher-than-expected construction bids and to confirm current contract authorization levels for the center's design and project-management teams.

Staff member Matt told the commission the low number of bidders and unusually high subcontract costs produced a single general-contractor bid of $614,444 for a trash-can enclosure, more than double the commission's previously approved estimate of $300,000. "We do believe that this trash room is something we just have to do," Matt said, and recommended the commission approve the higher amount.

The commission approved a motion to accept the $614,444 bid over the original estimate. Commissioners who voted on the record included Commissioner Giuffredo (yes), Commissioner Kevin Gould (yes), Commissioner McElroy (yes) and Commissioner Economo (yes); the motion passed.

The commission also approved a revised budget for fire-alarm work in the building. Staff said the original estimate was $200,000 and the bid returned about $208,000; the commission approved a motion to authorize up to $210,000 for the fire-alarm work so staff has a small contingency while finalizing schedules and contracts. Commissioner Chiafrito, Commissioner Gould, Commissioner McElroy…