Bellaire approves CMAR contract with Sidalco for public-works facility preconstruction services

The Bellaire City Council on Sept. 16 authorized the city manager to execute a construction-manager-at-risk (CMAR) agreement with Sidalco Inc. for work on the citys public-works facility retrofit and appropriated $5,000 for preconstruction services.

Assistant City Manager and City Engineer Beth Jones told council the CMAR delivery method is appropriate for retrofitting an existing building because it allows the contractor and architect to work in tandem during design to produce a reliable cost estimate and avoid surprises at bidding. "It really allows us to be partners on all respects," Jones said, explaining preconstruction services lead to a guaranteed-maximum price (GMP) the council will consider before construction.

Jones said the city received multiple proposals, interviewed three firms, and selected Sidalco. She introduced Gabby Robbins, Sidalcos vice president, who attended the meeting.

The preconstruction services contract amount is $5,000; Jones said Sidalcos fee on the ultimate GMP will be 5.5 percent of that guaranteed maximum price. Council members indicated the CMAR approach fits the project sequence and timing; staff expects to return with a GMP for council approval after additional design work.

Motion and vote: Council Member Gordon moved to approve the contract authorization and budget amendment for preconstruction services; the Mayor Pro Tem seconded. The ordinance passed unanimously.

Next steps: staff will continue preconstruction design and cost estimating with Sidalco and the citys architect and return with a GMP (and a separate council action) before starting construction.