Muskegon County approves $1.09 million contract to build Pioneer Park bathhouse

The Muskegon County Board of Commissioners approved a $1,086,368 contract with Clifford Buck Construction to build a bathhouse at Pioneer Park after hearing that six proposals were received and three finalists were considered.

Bob Lukitz, community development director, told commissioners, "We had 6 proposals come in for this project and narrowed it down to 3," and said the lowest bidder did not meet reference standards. The board moved and approved the award by roll call.

Commissioners asked for funding and schedule details. Staff said $300,000 will come from a county parks trust fund, $510,000 from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated to the project, and the remainder from the county’s fund balance. Administration said the trust fund expires in August and the county is pursuing an accelerated timeline to complete work by July so the trust funds can be used.

Contractors told commissioners they could begin site clearing as soon as weather allows and expect construction activities to ramp up in spring; staff said some preparatory tree clearing could begin immediately. Commissioners pressed staff for scheduling because the trust funding has an expiration timeline.

The contract award was the formal action taken; the board did not amend the project scope during the meeting. The county will return to the board if additional budget or contract amendments become necessary.