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Council approves $97,000 in Rec Center change orders; members ask why items emerged late
Summary
New London City Council approved two change orders totaling $97,203.01 for the new Recreation Center — $36,122.76 for audio-visual work and $61,080.25 for raceways and shot clocks — and was told the costs are covered within the project's contingency without increasing the approved budget.
The New London City Council on May 19 approved two change orders for the new Recreation Center that together total $97,203.01.
Council approved Contract Action Memo (CAM) 72497, a $36,122.76 change order with RNB Enterprise to cover additional audio-visual infrastructure and equipment adjustments. Director Reyes told the council the amount reflects missing scope items that became apparent when the AV vendor went on site and tested equipment; the project team replaced some projector plans with television screens where mechanical systems required it and installed additional outlets and infrastructure.
The council then approved PCCO 133B140 with Downs Construction for $61,080.25. The Downs change order covers a raceway in the fitness center and the installation of six shot clocks tied into the new gym scoreboard. Director Reyes explained the final fitness layout differed from the architect’s earlier generic layout, requiring a raceway (a concealed electrical/data channel) to service rows of exercise equipment safely and to support the shot-clock and scoreboard systems.
Council members questioned why the items were not included earlier and whether the changes would increase the project’s approved $40 million budget. Reyes said the change orders do not increase council-appropriated funds and are being covered by allowances/contingency already in the project budget. She also said the AV work had been re-scoped through state bid to lower costs before hiring the vendor.
Both change orders passed on voice votes after council discussion. The approvals include authorization for the mayor to execute any necessary documents.
