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BID asks staff to get quotes for power washing and treatments to remove downtown spider webs
Summary
Staff will solicit quotes for power washing walkways and for a treatment used on city buildings to reduce spider webs; the plan will be a first-year trial with unclear retreat intervals and possible constraints around historic buildings and bridges.
Staff reported multiple contractors (exterminators and power-washers) were contacted and that typical exterminators do not provide large outdoor web-removal services. Staff proposed a two-part approach: an initial power wash of heavily webbed walkways and application of a liquid treatment used by the city on other structures. Board members characterized the first year as experimental because staff do not know how long one application will last outdoors — it might require additional retreatment in September or October.
Staff also flagged logistical challenges: parts of the Riverwalk and bridge spans are difficult to reach with lifts; power-washing the large bridge span over the river may be impractical and applying treatment over the water raises environmental concerns. Board members requested quotes for both power washing (including lift rental) and for a lift-and-hand-removal approach if power washing is not feasible.
Leona cautioned that power washing near historic building exteriors requires care; staff said any cleaning would use a light pressure appropriate for historic materials. The board asked staff to collect written quotes and cost estimates and return with recommendations.
No formal contract was awarded at the meeting. Staff will return with cost estimates and recommended timing (for example, whether to power wash now or time treatment closer to the start of spider season).
