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Council authorizes $1.686 million change order for White Way Utility Service Center; ARPA deadline cited
Summary
Council approved a $1,685,872 change order for the White Way Utility Service Center progressive design‑build to cover site conflicts, MEP cost increases, an architectural upgrade, furniture and a fence; the project is ARPA‑funded and under a federal completion deadline.
The City Council on May 20 authorized City Manager Bahia to approve a $1,685,872 change order to Bandy's Construction for the progressive design‑build of the White Way Utility Service Center, increasing the project budget to accommodate site conflicts, rising MEP costs, and other scope additions.
Staff said the White Way Service Center is funded with federal ARPA dollars approved previously by council. As the contractor progressed through design and due diligence, unexpected underground site conflicts—particularly with piping from city wells—required installation of an underground stormwater storage vault and utility modifications (costing about $565,000). Mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) price escalation, particularly for electrical and generator costs, added about $634,540; the generator scope change alone rose to $325,000. A decision to alter the building from a minimal “box” to a Spanish‑Mediterranean architectural style added $336,332; furniture and fixtures contributed roughly $100,000; and a fence requested by the development review committee added $50,000.
Staff told council the contractor needs approval to order long‑lead materials so the work can proceed; the project team estimates a July ground‑breaking and about a 12‑month construction schedule, with conservative completion expected by October 2026. Staff cautioned that the ARPA requirement to complete projects by Dec. 31, 2026, shortens the timeline and that timely approvals are essential. Public inspector Jason Morphew confirmed the contract contains schedule provisions and potential remedies for missed deadlines.
Council members discussed whether the cost escalation could have been anticipated and were told market conditions and tariff environments contributed to MEP price increases. The council approved the change order by voice vote. Staff said the water and sewer reserve account will fund the additional amount if council approves the change order.
Less urgent: staff noted hurricane season and supply‑chain pressures could affect construction timing.
