The Port Richey Community Redevelopment Agency voted Nov. 25 to approve extra payment to SC Signature Construction for additional work on a pier demolition and seawall reconstruction project, after the contractor described unforeseen site conditions and expanded scope.

Joseph Matasek of SC Signature Construction told the board the crew encountered unexpectedly deep excavation needs, deteriorated limestone and an unmarked 8‑inch water main while removing a pier and rebuilding a seawall. “We were only contracted to take 16 inches out. I think we took more of an almost 4 foot out of there,” Matasek said, explaining the extra excavation and mitigation increased labor and materials.

Matasek said crews worked at night and in low tides to complete the work, coordinating with engineers and the city to design and build a new seawall and bulkhead. He said the company submitted a change order to cover the additional work and that communication with city staff continued while the work progressed.

Board members and staff also discussed a navigation hazard created when the removed structure had previously served as a visible deterrent; its removal exposed an underwater obstruction that could threaten small craft. Staff said the U.S. Coast Guard and the Army Corps of Engineers had been notified and that the city would place a temporary PVC marker to warn boaters while more permanent dredging or marking is arranged.

A board member moved to approve the additional payment for SC Signature; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. Several board members praised the contractor’s work and noted the bids on the project had been lower than other proposals, signaling the contractor did not profit excessively from the extra work.

What’s next: staff will coordinate with marine authorities on marking the obstruction and with county or federal partners about dredging; the contractor’s change‑order paperwork will be completed to document the additional payment.