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Fullerton approves Union Pacific Trail Phase 2 contract after heated public debate
Summary
After hours of public testimony for and against, the council approved the contract for Union Pacific Trail Phase 2 and authorized a $150,000 park-dwelling fund transfer to cover construction contingencies and related services.
The Fullerton City Council approved the construction contract for Union Pacific Trail Phase 2 on May 20, approving a park-dwelling fund transfer of $150,000 to cover contingency, inspection and limited construction administration costs. The decision followed hours of public testimony and detailed council inquiry about cost increases since a January 2024 approval.
Councilmember Nick Dunlap, who pulled the item to clarify the citys share, said the vote "is about the contract and the contract price," noting the city initially anticipated a $1.8 million grant and a $330,000 match. He said delays and rising costs prompted staff to seek a supplemental transfer but emphasized that the trail itself had been previously approved.
Staff and the public described why additional funds were requested: value engineering earlier in the process reduced an initial estimate, but inflation and scheduling meant a contingency and costs for surveying, testing and construction administration were prudent. Deputy City Manager told the council the grant must be spent on a schedule tied to the funding source and that rebidding carries the risk of losing current contractor availability.
Supporters emphasized equity and public-health benefits for South Fullerton, saying the trail would deliver trees, safe walking and biking routes and connections for residents without cars. Opponents warned about maintenance, safety and blight on the Phase 1 portion and questioned whether the project met the connectivity and usage claims in grant materials.
After debate about whether to approve the full $300,000 staff request or a smaller amount, the council approved a motion (amended) to authorize the contract and a $150,000 transfer from park-dwelling funds (roll call: Dunlap Aye; Valencia Aye; Zara Aye; Mayor Pro Tem Charles Aye; Mayor Jeong No). Staff will return with regular updates if additional funds are needed and will report any material change orders to council for approval.
The contract approval keeps the $1.78 million state grant in play and schedules the project to proceed under the awarded bidder, pending permits and contractor mobilization.
