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City Hall block redevelopment on track; early bid packages under contract and piers being drilled
Summary
City staff reported progress on the City Hall block redevelopment: early-release bid packages came in under estimates, foundations/piers are advancing, and the project remains within budgeted ranges though soft costs and contingencies remain under review.
City project staff updated the Board of Mayor and Aldermen on progress at the City Hall block redevelopment during the Aug. 26 work session, reporting active site work, early-release contract awards and value‑engineering efforts.
Staff said excavation is complete, piers are being drilled to roughly 14 feet for bearing, and early-release packages (ERP 1–2) came in under estimate: two initial packages estimated at $30.7 million arrived at approximately $27.5 million combined. Staff said the project is tracking ahead of schedule in some civil and foundation activities and that the construction manager has submitted pay applications that will increase reported expenditures to roughly $10.5–$11 million once processed.
The largest upcoming package (ERP 3) covers mechanical, electrical and plumbing and is forecast at about $41 million; remaining finishes packages were estimated around $23.4 million. Staff reported a construction forecast range reflecting contingencies, allowances and tariff uncertainty. Value‑engineering work identified approximately $3.7 million in potential savings already, and staff said they have shifted some reduced construction costs into soft-cost allowances (furniture, fixtures and equipment) to cover potential increases in those lines.
Board members asked about potential rock, blast/soil issues and found that the project did not require blasting and only a small unsuitable‑soil remediation was executed (about $6,000). Alderman Baggett and others sought additional renderings and streetscape details for Third Avenue; staff said streetscape and coordination with businesses such as Biscuit Love are being coordinated during owner‑architect‑contractor meetings.
Staff reiterated that contingencies remain in place and that the low and high forecast ranges have decreased since the last update, reflecting favorable bid activity; the board did not record any formal votes in the excerpted discussion.
