Rawlins council advances VFW ballfields project by approving water/sewer quotes as first step

Council reviewed renderings and a range of construction approaches for a concession/restroom building at the VFW ballfields (Rodeo and Deal streets) and directed staff to begin work on water and sewer infrastructure as a first priority.

Public works staff presented three building concepts: a gabled, a clerestory and a flat-roof design, and outlined a rough estimate of about $200,000 for a fixed structure. Council discussed alternatives intended to shorten schedule and reduce cost, including prebuilt/mobile concession units and shipping-container solutions. Several council members and public commenters suggested purchasing prebuilt concession/restroom trailers or modified containers as a faster, lower-cost option.

Given the limited timeline to host a state qualifying tournament in July 2026, council instructed staff to obtain competitive quotes for boring-based installation of a 4-inch sewer line and a 1-inch water line (estimated combined cost approximately $40,000) and to investigate movable concession units that are ADA-compliant. Staff noted that full building design, permitting and procurement would require additional professional services and a longer schedule; council said it preferred to secure water/sewer placement this winter so future construction could proceed without re-opening the parking or paving areas.

Little League representatives advised the council they must decide in November whether Rawlins will host the 2026 tournament; councilors asked staff to work with Little League to seek a one-year deferral if construction would disrupt the 2026 schedule.