Commission approves $222,580 increase to Stern Grove Playground construction contract

The Recreation and Park Commission on August 23 approved increasing the construction contract for the Stern Grove Playground renovation with Minerva Construction to $2,745,580, an increase of $222,580 from the previously authorized amount.

Alexis Ward, project manager in Capital Division, said the project — part of the citywide Let’s Play SF initiative — is more than 90% complete and that the contract increase reflects change orders covering additional tree work, unexpected utility and drainage work (including purple pipe installation for prospective recycled water per SFPUC), refurbishment of existing site lighting, and accessibility and grading adjustments to tie into newly built sidewalks. Notice to proceed was originally issued in July 2024 and the project opened is scheduled for a September 10 opening ceremony; staff scheduled substantial completion walk for August 28.

Ward said this was not a request for additional project funding; the project budget was fully funded but the previously delegated contracting authority required commission approval once the construction contract increase exceeded the delegated threshold. Commissioners asked staff to clarify contingency and how leftover funds are handled; staff explained that projects hold a contingency (typically 10–15%) and unused funds are returned to the original funding pool or reassigned to other projects from the same source.

Commissioner Vanita Louie moved the approval; Commissioner Hallisey seconded. The motion passed with no opposition.

Staff indicated the majority of remaining punch-list work would be complete within days of the meeting and invited commissioners to the September 10 reopening.