Council approves engineering addenda for Elm Street and Ann Street pier projects

The council approved two contract amendments for engineering services tied to pier repair and extension projects.

Elm Street Pier: The council approved a contract addendum with FR Engineering Group (Warwick) under the State Master Price Agreement to add up to $55,000 for part‑time construction observation and administrative services during demolition and rebuilding of the Elm Street Pier. Steve Land, the harbor master, said the original $55,000 contract covered demolition and permitting. The addendum funds the on‑site engineer role for construction verification.

Ann Street Pier: The council approved a second addendum, also to FR Engineering Group, increasing the not‑to‑exceed amount by $50,000 (original contract $27,000) to perform subsurface investigation and contract‑level design assistance for the Ann Street Pier extension. Land explained the expansion followed a settlement requiring a full CRMC permit and noted the city intends to match a grant application from the bond for project funds.

Why it matters: Councilors asked why the extra engineering work was added after prior approvals and where funds would come from. Land said the Elm Street construction-phase services were contingent on the demo/permitting step and that the Ann Street work expanded after a settlement required a full permit; funds will come from existing bond accounts and anticipated grant matches.

Timing: Land said Elm Street preconstruction meetings are scheduled and he expects on‑site work in early February with completion by early June. Ann Street design and permitting work may push construction into 2026–2027 because of procurement and concrete dock lead times.

Ending: Both addenda were approved by the council. Staff said the work is budgeted and tied to bond and grant funding streams.