Council awards $310,814 contract for Depot Market Plaza expansion; accepts Skagit grant

The Anacortes City Council on Feb. 2 authorized the mayor to sign contract 24-228-PRK-003 with Earthworks Solutions LLC for Schedule B (interlocking pavers) of the Depot Market Plaza expansion, awarding the contract at $310,814.10.

Parks Director John Lunsford told council the project is primarily funded by a $250,000 Skagit County economic development grant plus $50,000 in Real Estate Excise Tax funds, for a total budget of $300,000; staff said REET can cover the roughly $10,814 difference without a separate budget amendment. Two bid schedules were presented: Schedule A (concrete pad) low bid Fisher Construction Group $250,890.32; Schedule B (interlocking pavers) low bid Earthworks Solutions LLC $310,814.10. Lunsford said the paver option offers longer durability for high-traffic areas and improves stormwater performance.

Councilmembers discussed life-cycle costs and continuity of design. "Interlocking paversare a lot more durable for high traffic areas," Councilmember Fantini said, adding that pavers allow localized repairs without extensive maintenance. Councilmember McDougall noted the new plaza would add approximately 10,000 square feet and could accommodate about 10 vendor booths, increasing capacity for events and farmers market activities.

Following discussion, Councilmember Young moved to award Schedule B to Earthworks Solutions LLC; the motion carried by voice vote.

Staff noted maps and construction plans were available for review, the project footprint avoids the Madrona grove, and locking bollards would control vehicle access during market events. The low bids for both options came in below the engineers estimate, the parks director said, and the award was finalized without the need for a budget amendment.