Council awards $1.99 million contract to reconfigure 11 Mile parking lots; businesses to share special assessment

The Oak Park City Council approved a contract award for the 11 Mile parking lot reconfiguration project (Project M694) at a recommended award amount of $1,991,091.25 to Warren Contractors and Development of Shelby Township.

City Engineer Kara Grissmer briefed council on the bid history: the project was rebid after earlier bids were rejected for being too high; three bids were received in the second opening, and the low bidder’s original figure ($2,177,941.25) was reduced for the council recommendation after removing higher‑cost elements such as string lighting and water‑tower lighting. Funding for the award was identified in the Corridor Improvement Fund and the Street Lighting Fund, with adjacent businesses participating via a special assessment district for a portion of the cost.

Grissmer said the work will replace pavement in alleys and parking lots behind businesses between Tulare and Gardner (south of 11 Mile) and add placemaking elements. She noted one east side lot will not be replaced as part of this contract and that some lighting features may be contracted separately.

Council approved the award by roll call vote. Staff said funding is available and recommended contracting separately for the removed lighting elements if needed.

Why it matters: the project affects business access and the built environment along the 11 Mile corridor and involves a special assessment mechanism that shares some cost with adjacent commercial property owners. Residents and business owners should expect construction in the affected blocks and further communications from the city.