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Hope Mills board approves Lake Park concept, authorizes RFQ; cost estimate rises to $2.36 million
Summary
The board approved East Group’s Design Option 3 for Hope Mills Lake Park and authorized Parks & Rec to start an RFQ process. The revised opinion of probable cost increased from about $1.55 million to $2.36 million; commissioners raised safety and phasing questions.
The Town of Hope Mills voted to approve a refined master-plan concept for Hope Mills Lake Park and authorized the Parks and Recreation director to begin an RFQ process for design and construction documents, the board announced on Feb. 16.
East Group presented Design Option 3, a concept that integrates public feedback: a permanent restroom facility replaced previously proposed portable toilets, the playground was relocated farther from the lake, crosswalks were added at the Main Street exit, seating walls and a pergola were incorporated, and additional parking and a stormwater‑retention island were shown. The project team said the plan preserves an existing gazebo and boat ramp and adds picnic and event spaces.
The firm’s updated opinion of probable cost grew from a previously stated $1.55 million to an estimated $2.36 million, driven in part by the decision to add two permanent restroom buildings and other scope adjustments. East Group said an early contingency of 10–15% is included and that the estimate will be refined with construction documents.
Commissioners probed safety details: several asked whether the playground’s proximity to a busy road should be further buffered with physical barriers (concrete seating, boulders, taller fencing) and how boat‑trailer circulation would affect parking and pedestrian safety. Staff and the consultants said the plan will include design options and a phasing plan so the town can proceed in stages if full grant funding is not secured; town staff noted the town will first seek grants and legislative support and expects the town to provide matching funds when required.
After public discussion and questions, Commissioner Marley moved to approve Concept 3; a second followed and the motion carried with no recorded opposition. The board also voted to authorize the Parks & Recreation director to proceed with the RFQ process; that motion likewise carried.
Consultants and staff said they will return with construction documents, a phasing plan, and more detailed cost breakdowns to guide grant applications and any town match decisions.
