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Oswego board approves $26.4 million public works facility; soil issues add about $1.5M
Summary
After updated soil borings revealed unsuitable conditions, the Village of Oswego approved a revised $26,408,960 budget for a new public works facility, adopting mitigation measures and retaining contingencies; the board also approved a PUD amendment to expand the site at 100 Theodore Drive.
The Village of Oswego Board of Trustees approved a $26,408,960 budget for a new public works facility and granted a preliminary and final PUD amendment to allow the expansion at 100 Theodore Drive.
Steve (staff) summarized the project and said the board had previously directed staff to pursue the lower‑cost option. Williams Architects and construction manager Frederick Quinn briefed trustees on new geotechnical information. Jack Hayes, representing the construction manager, said soil borings revealed pervasive unsuitable materials on the expansion site that could not be avoided by moving the building. To mitigate the condition the team proposed undercutting, importing stone, reinforcing pavements and foundations, and installing rammed aggregate (GeoPiers) foundations. Presenters said those measures added approximately $1.5 million to the budget.
Jack Hayes described contingencies and schedule: design contingency was being carried at 3.5% (about $800,000) and the team planned a 5% construction contingency after bids. Presenters said they had already reduced the scope — cutting about $1.6 million from facade and cosmetic elements — and that most of the additional cost is the soil mitigation required to make the site buildable. Andy Dogen of Williams Architects explained options to pre‑purchase long‑lead items and to bid certain components earlier to reduce exposure to tariffs and lead‑time escalation.
Trustees asked about downsizing the garage to reduce cost; staff said shrinking the garage would make the building reach its capacity sooner and likely require additional investment later. The project team recommended funding the increase from existing general‑fund reserves and other surplus; staff said the village can technically afford the revised budget without issuing bonds.
After discussion, a trustee moved and the board approved a resolution authorizing the budget at $26,408,960 by roll call. The board also approved the preliminary/final PUD amendment and plat to allow the expansion; trustees confirmed the design is "solar ready" (roof provisions for future solar panels) though no panels will be installed now. Staff and the construction team expect to open bids in early March and aim to break ground in May 2026 with project completion targeted for 2027.
The board's action funds a larger, long‑term public works campus intended to serve projected fleet and staffing needs through 2050 and includes interior features such as a fitness area, quiet room, lockers and a training/lunch room to support operations.
