Orlando CRA approves up to $4.8 million for Bob Carr adaptive-reuse design contract

The Orlando Community Redevelopment Agency voted to approve a contract with Baker Barrios for design services on the adaptive reuse of the Bob Carr building, with a potential total contract cost of just over $4,800,000.

David, a CRA staff member who presented the item to the council, said the work is split into two phases: a conceptual-design phase priced at “just over a million dollars,” and a second phase for construction drawings and possible owner's-rep services at “just over 3,800,000.0,” bringing the total potential cost to “just over $4,800,000.” Commissioner Rose moved the motion to approve the contract; Commissioner Sheehan seconded it. The council approved the motion after the customary voice vote.

The CRA presentation described the Bob Carr property as “a gem in our community” and framed the agreement as a way to reintroduce the building to the public in a manner consistent with the objectives for Creative Village. The staff presentation said Phase 1 will produce conceptual work to identify intended uses and community benefits; Phase 2 would produce construction documents and could include owner's-rep services if the CRA proceeds to construction.

Council members did not request further amendments on the record before approving the contract. The recorded discussion focused on scope and budgeting; no alternative design firms or competing proposals were introduced during the item.

The contract will move the project from concept toward detailed design and, if exercised, into construction readiness. No construction contract was approved at the meeting; the action authorized design and related services only.