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Commission reviews change order 3 for downtown streetscape: poles, sidewalks and sound studies
Summary
Staff presented Change Order 3 to add decorative poles, updated foundations, lighting design and sidewalk finishes to the downtown streetscape project. GDOT estimates and accessory loads were central to discussion; staff proposed a not‑to‑exceed amount (worst case roughly $350,000) with about 20% city share.
City staff and consultants presented Change Order 3 for the downtown streetscape project, explaining that GDOT photometric studies and foundation requirements led to a recommended addition of decorative poles and related foundation/geotechnical work. The presentation cited a GDOT construction estimate that included 212 poles and a $6 million construction estimate; staff said they had identified a less expensive decorative pole at roughly $2,000 per pole and itemized accessories, structural design and sound‑study costs.
Key line items included geotechnical testing and structural foundation design for pole loads, updated lighting plans, a sound study to assess any mounted speaker installations and project management costs. Staff also presented two sidewalk finish alternates (a wavy epoxy overlay or a fossilized stamped pattern) and noted an 80/20 grant split in some funding scenarios, with the city's portion estimated at about 20% of the change order subtotal.
Commissioners asked whether buying simpler poles now could be negated by later add‑ons (flower arms, banners, speakers) and raised concerns about ongoing costs, public controls for sound and whether smart‑pole features (USB charging, sensors) might be needed in the future. Staff said accessories add load to poles and require proper foundations; they recommended approving a not‑to‑exceed amount and returning with final accessory pricing. Staff also emphasized small‑business participation and phasing that targets specific blocks.
Action and next steps: Commissioners requested photos and final accessory pricing; staff proposed a recommended not‑to‑exceed change order amount and said they would return with more information and final design choices for affected blocks.
