Council approves $20,606 design amendment and phases for Cudahy Park renovation; construction expected this year

Cudahy — The City Council approved a fourth amendment to the professional services agreement with Wheldon Engineering Inc. on Oct. 7 to finalize the design for the Cudahy Park renovation and split the project into two construction phases.

The approved amendment adds design work to prepare separate construction packages for phase 1 (west side of the park) and phase 2 (east side), relocates proposed bioswales to the park’s southern property line to preserve open play areas, and adds plan detail for removal and replacement of cracked or lifted concrete throughout the site. The amendment is not to exceed $20,606 and brings the total not‑to‑exceed contract amount to $511,672, funded with Proposition 68 grant funds.

Scope and sequencing: Staff said phase 1 will focus on the west side elements: basketball courts, a splash pad, playground area, and trails; the amphitheater is expected in phase 2. Staff indicated they are pursuing additional grant funding to support phase 2.

Timeline: Presenters told council they will be ready to advertise for construction immediately after design completion, expect to award a construction contract in November 2025, and anticipate a construction duration of approximately 160 days once work begins.

Questions from council members covered amenities (splash pad vs. amphitheater), surfacing and perimeter fencing, and community notifications. Council members requested invitation to students who had provided design input when the city breaks ground.

Vote: Council approved the amendment on the consent motion; roll call showed unanimous support.