The Village of Cottage Grove Village Board on Monday approved a construction contract for Shady Grove Park after the low bid came in under the engineer's estimate.

Sean (staff) told trustees that Property Solutions Contracting submitted the low bid of $498,210, compared with an engineer estimate — including contingency — of $514,299. "Property Solutions Contracting was the low bidder, at $498,210," Sean said. He recommended awarding the contract based on references and the bid's alignment with the project budget.

Trustee Severson moved to award the contract; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. Board leaders told residents the contractor could begin work once contracts are signed and a notice to proceed is issued, possibly this winter. The contract includes a completion date set for the Friday before Memorial Day; staff said a public opening is a realistic expectation in late spring or early summer.

The board noted the project came in under budget and recalled that neighborhood conversations helped choose playground elements and the park name. The village intends to coordinate construction scheduling with the contractor and will monitor progress through staff updates.

Outcome and next steps: The board approved the contract award; staff will finalize contracts, issue a notice to proceed when appropriate, and return to the board with any schedule or scope updates.