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Commissioners approve metal pavilion for Stockton Park after debate over cost and longevity
Summary
The board voted 6-1 to authorize a metal-frame pavilion at Stockton Park, accepting a roughly $52,000 estimate (including concrete) and noting a 90% grant reimbursement for the POS project; some commissioners argued for a cheaper wood option to save taxpayer dollars.
The Worcester County Commissioners voted 6-1 on Feb. 3 to approve a metal-frame pavilion at Stockton Park, after hearing two cost options and debate over durability and aesthetics.
Jacob Stevens, deputy director of Recreation & Parks, presented two bids: a metal-frame pavilion (option A) with an estimated base cost of about $46,000 plus roughly $6,000 for concrete and four picnic tables, and a stick-built wooden pavilion (option B) priced at about $18,779 without picnic tables. Stevens said the metal option offers greater longevity and is wrapped to reduce graffiti and maintenance. The project is a POS grant-funded project, 90% reimbursable, and staff said the department has $50,000 budgeted and can cover the remainder from general maintenance funds.
Several commissioners weighed the trade-offs. Commissioner Bunting highlighted a roughly $26,000 difference in upfront cost and said the wood option could save taxpayers money; Commissioner Metresse favored the metal structure for long-term durability and free-span design. Commissioner Browning noted a 40-year warranty on the metal roof included in documents. The motion to proceed with the metal pavilion was made by Commissioner Abbott and seconded by Commissioner Metresse and passed on a 6-1 vote.
The county will move forward with the contract and expects the POS grant reimbursement to cover most of the cost. Staff said they would follow up on warranty details and final construction specifications before work begins.
