Board approves phasing changes for Brain Park redevelopment and awards wet detention basin contract

Justin Caspersonson, the city’s park and recreation director, told the Board of Public Works the department is asking the board to approve a re-sequencing of the Brain Park redevelopment that advances the restroom construction from 2027 to 2026 and defers the playground and pavilion from 2026 to 2027.

The change, Caspersonson said, addresses site conflicts: the existing pavilion and restroom are within the footprint of the proposed playground, requiring removal before playground work can proceed. He said advancing the restroom will centralize utility installations and ‘‘avoid temporary connections, re-excavation, and duplication of working phases.’’ He added that the modification produces "a modest net cost difference of approximately $10,000 between the affected phases." Staff recommended approval, noting the adjustment keeps the overall project on track for a 2028 completion and within the approved capital project budget.

Board members asked for specifics on location and scope. Caspersonson said the playground will be moved slightly north and west, ‘‘closer in proximity to the pavilion’’ to improve sight lines and separation from the softball backstop, and that the playground scope would not be reduced—only the sequencing would change. A board member asked whether any change-order fees would apply; staff said there is no scope change and therefore no change-order fee is expected.

On a motion by Justin Caspersonson, seconded by Derek, the board approved the revised phasing plan.

Separately, the board considered bids for a wet detention basin at Brain Park required by the city’s stormwater permit to reduce phosphorus. Josh Maritz summarized the February 25 bid opening and said Earth Incorporated was the apparent low bidder at $583,640.30, which he described as below the engineer’s opinion of probable cost. Maritz noted about $136,000 has already been spent on design and geotechnical work; with a contingency and engineering allowance, he said the project remains well under the CIP budget.

Maritz also explained funding mechanics in response to questions: the project received a 50/50 reimbursement grant capped at $150,000 that is paid after completion; the city expects to combine that reimbursement with a Clean Water Fund loan for favorable rates and to borrow the remaining funds as needed. A motion to accept the low bid and authorize contract execution was made and seconded; the board approved the award to Earth Incorporated for $583,640.30.

The board’s approvals follow recommendations previously endorsed by the Park & Recreation Forestry Committee and the Finance, Budget and Personnel Committee. The revised phasing plan and the wet basin contract will proceed to the Common Council as required for final budget and contracting approvals.