DDA approves matching funds—up to 50% and $30,000 cap—for downtown paver repairs

The Clawson DDA on April 16 authorized staff to proceed with repairs to roughly 45 damaged paver areas in the downtown and agreed to cost sharing with the city, with the DDA’s share capped at $30,000.

Public Works presented four quotes ranging from $35,000 to $70,000 to repair damaged sidewalks and pavers. DPW recommended the lowest bid from "It's The Brick Guys" at $35,000 and noted the contractor included a complimentary 24-month warranty for masonry and paver projects. DPW and administration also flagged additional issues — raised water-access caps and personalized bricks — that either were not pictured on the DPW graphic or could affect scope and cost.

City administration proposed a percentage cost-share with the city so staff could authorize execution and avoid delay; administration said one additional quote had come in after the packet and another remained outstanding, so final contractor selection would be made administratively within board parameters. Finance Director Mark Pollock told the board the operating-supplies account and fund balance could accommodate the commitment.

A motion to authorize up to 50% of total cost (with the DDA match not to exceed $30,000) passed on roll call. Board members asked that the building department help oversee installation quality and that administration return if there were any egregious scope changes.

What the authorization covers: it gives the administration authority to select among the received quotes and to proceed with repairs this summer, aiming to complete the work before fall events. The board also discussed using up to $10,000 in Oakland County beautification grant funds toward repairs if appropriate.

Next steps: administration will finalize contractor selection, notify the board which contractor is chosen, and aim to complete the work before major summer events. If unforeseen issues substantially increase scope, administration will bring the matter back to the board.