Ames approves change order and directs staining study after precast panel discoloration delays pool completion

City project staff and the construction manager updated the council on progress at the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center and outlined a revised schedule: general building substantial completion remained targeted for Jan. 23, 2026, while the natatorium (pools and pool mechanical) was pushed to Feb. 13, 2026. The delay was driven in part by a 14‑week precast panel manufacturing/shop‑drawing delay and on‑site installation issues, staff said.

Contractor and consultant presentations identified a "sinus wave" discoloration across some precast architectural panels on the south façade. Staff, RDG and concrete consultant SGH reviewed cleaning tests and mock‑ups and said two remedial approaches were viable: allow natural weathering (time) or apply a penetrating stain to match desired color/aesthetic. Council members repeatedly asked why the contract specifications called for brush washing while the site used pressure washing; contractors acknowledged the discrepancy but said the discoloration appeared tied to mix/design variation (missing color add) and to panel finish rather than cleaning method alone.

Council advanced a staff recommendation to approve change order #2 for Story Construction (construction management staffing and reimbursables) at an additional approximately $211,000, bringing the CMA contract near $2.6M. Separately, the council voted to direct staff to investigate the staining approach, test mock‑up panels (starting with a Sherwin‑Williams 'Rushing River' gray stain), and return with a detailed plan for color tests and a recommended remedial approach for covering or minimizing the visual defects. The council asked staff to pursue potential contractor responsibility and to keep the public informed about timelines and nameplate signage legibility concerns tied to darker stains.