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TIRZ board says Zaragoza Street improvements substantially complete; approves brief time-only extension for closeout
Summary
City staff and consultants reported the Zaragoza Street public‑improvement project is substantially complete but still has punch‑list items. The board approved a no‑cost, time‑only extension through Feb. 10 to allow final inspections and closeout work.
The Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 1 board heard an update Jan. 14 that the Zaragoza Street public‑improvement project is substantially complete, and approved a time‑only, no‑cost extension through Feb. 10 to allow punch‑list work and contract closeout.
Consultant Andrea (KCI) told the board the team has installed bollards, ramps, handrails and landscaping in multiple blocks along Zaragoza and that some finishes — notably brick veneers, stone caps and certain power meters — are still pending. She said the project team is coordinating electrical meter installations with the utility identified in the presentation as “AP” and that some brick and stone elements are being held until caps arrive so the finished work does not appear incomplete.
Board chair moved to approve a time‑only extension to Feb. 10 for closeout and punch‑list purposes; the motion was seconded by Justin Heather and the extension passed on a voice vote.
Why it matters: the board and consultants said the work improves walkability downtown, covers previously damaged sidewalk sections and adds pedestrian features the board previously prioritized. Board members and staff flagged several items that must be resolved before final acceptance: irrigation and meter boxes that are below grade, several non‑pedestrian rated electrical boxes, railing details that could conflict with ADA clearances, and trees that may not meet the size called for in the design.
Specific items noted during the update included a recommendation to standardize rectangular or polymer irrigation/water‑meter boxes to reduce future maintenance, a request that the contractor train city staff and the fire department on removable bollard removal (the contractor uses a ~30‑inch rod as part of the removal method), and a suggestion to bring the landscape consultant back to review tree selections because several installed trees appeared undersized.
Ramon Chavez, assistant city manager and city engineer, noted the city has a landscape architect on rotation that could be used if the board prefers not to solicit new bids. Juan Mendive, metropolitan planning organization director, confirmed MPO staff will provide technical help but that the city must complete required forms for state reimbursement if the board pursues additional grant funding for sidewalks.
The board directed staff to continue punch‑list coordination, include the electrical box and irrigation items on the final walkthrough, and return materials for final acceptance following the Feb. 10 extension period.
Ending: Staff said a final walkthrough and punch‑list review are scheduled; the board will revisit final acceptance after the contractor completes the outstanding items.
