Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Waterfront Park topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Waterfront Park Phase 2 draws strong contractor interest; staff to launch two‑phase public engagement
Summary
Director Melbow told the commission the Waterfront Park Phase 2 RFP drew 14 proposals (professional fees $88,000–$500,000); staff narrowed to two firms, expects to seek commission authorization next week, and outlined a two‑phase community engagement and permitting schedule tied to a $500,000 grant.
Director Melbow updated the Parks Commission on Waterfront Park Phase 2 design work, saying staff received an unusually large response to the request for proposals and will bring a recommended firm to the city commission for authorization.
“We had 14 firms express interest in Waterfront Park,” Melbow said, noting price proposals ranged from about $88,000 up to $500,000. Staff shortlisted two firms after interviews and will ask the city commission for authorization to proceed with the preferred firm at its next meeting.
Melbow described a two‑phase public‑engagement plan: Phase 1 will present the existing conceptual design and solicit feedback through three in‑person meetings and an online survey; consultants will then prepare a revised option and Phase 2 will again include three meetings and a second survey before the Parks Commission and city commission settle on a preferred design.
He said staff expect site surveys and a wetlands delineation to begin in April and that consultant design work will continue over the summer with the aim of advertising the project for bid in late 2026. The project includes $500,000 in grant funding tied to wetland restoration and will require permits and coordination with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, including eagle permits where applicable. Melbow noted typical grant project agreements carry two‑year completion windows and that staff will coordinate with state partners if scheduling adjustments are needed.
Melbow also said the Kent County Conservation District has submitted a letter of support and will likely assist with native‑plant selection and invasive‑species removal. He added that the city can include non‑grant items — such as a separately priced playground — in the same bid package so both grant and non‑grant work could be constructed together if commissioners and the community wish.
Melbow told commissioners they should expect monthly updates during the design phase and that staff will return with the selected consultant, a public‑engagement calendar and more detailed schedule at the next Parks & Recreation meeting.
