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Council accepts Riverfront Park feasibility report and authorizes final design for Betterstone improvements
Summary
Council accepted staff’s feasibility report for Riverfront Park Betterstone improvements, approved project ordering, and authorized a professional services agreement with LSE Architects for final design (plans for bidding June 2026; construction start anticipated Aug 2026; completion May 31, 2027).
The Mankato City Council voted to accept a feasibility report and authorize final design for the Riverfront Park Betterstone improvements on Dec. 8.
Staff reviewed design alternatives for a back‑of‑house stage facility and utility placement, noting high utility costs driven by trenchless installation, a 375‑foot sewer run and site constraints. Options included a purpose‑built structure (estimated cost for that portion $460,000 of an overall $830,000 concept), leasing or purchasing a modified modular trailer for back‑of‑house use, and phasing the utilities to avoid rework.
Staff recommended proceeding with final design through a negotiated professional services agreement with LSE Architects (design contract estimated at $162,250) and funding the $3,089,000 project through a combination of Riverfront Park capital fund balance ($2,214,000) and an $875,000 increased sales‑tax transfer in 2026. Staff proposed plans to be ready for bidding in June 2026, construction to start in August 2026, and completion by May 31, 2027 to preserve the summer events season.
Council approved the recommendation by voice vote. Council members asked clarifying questions about the lease cost option (staff is still negotiating lease term options), the source and allowable uses of the sales tax revenue (staff said the sales tax is eligible for regional park projects and is not property tax), and the reserve impact (approximately $400,000 reserve relief projected at project completion).
