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Council approves FEMA-funded overlook to replace flood-damaged fishing pier at Cotton Park
Summary
Council approved a $30,470.55 contract with Midwest Landscaping to build a river overlook at Cotton Park using FEMA funds, with total project cost of $36,799.59 and a $3,680 local contribution.
The Vermillion City Council on March 3 approved a contract with Midwest Landscaping Company to build an overlook near the Vermillion River to replace a fishing pier destroyed by flooding in June 2024.
Mister Goblish, presenting the item, said the June 2024 flood was an unprecedented event that destroyed the Rotary Club's fishing pier. After consulting with FEMA, city staff recommended an alternate project: an overlook set farther back from the river to reduce future flood risk while preserving river views and trail respite opportunities.
Midwest Landscaping submitted the lowest complete quote at $30,470.55 for site design, vegetation removal, grading, plantings, amenities and labor. Vermillion Light and Power will install a solar light; the total project cost is $36,799.59. Project funding will come from FEMA (80%), state-level FEMA support (10%) and a $3,680 local contribution from the city's general fund, Goblish said.
Goblish described the overlook as roughly 20 feet by 20 feet, connected to the hike-bike path about a quarter-mile east of the former pier, and including seating, a retaining wall, bike rack and trash receptacle. He said the site will not directly overlook Cotton Park but will be considered part of the Cotton Park area and will provide views of the Vermillion River.
Administration recommended approval of the contract; the council approved the motion.
