Lenoir council awards $924,825 contract to renovate aquatic center

The Lenoir City Council voted on Aug. 19 to award JM Cope Construction a guaranteed-maximum price contract of $924,825 to renovate the city’s aquatic center.

City Manager Hildebrand presented the recommendation, saying the work will include interior renovations such as ADA-accessible family restrooms, locker-room renovations, ceiling repairs, painting, installation of larger ADA-accessible doors, floor renovations and construction of a corridor to connect both sides of the building. Hildebrand told council the contract amount includes a contingency as part of the guaranteed-maximum price.

“Staff recommends award of a guaranteed maximum price for construction contract for the renovation improvements at the aquatic center to JM Cope Construction with a total contract amount of $924,825,” Hildebrand said during the meeting.

Council Member Bill moved to approve the contract; the motion carried on a voice vote with the mayor noting the price includes contingency funds. The council did not record a roll-call tally in the transcript; members indicated approval orally.

The contract is described as phase two of a multi-phase project. Council previously approved a grant-funded phase that built a splash pad; staff said a later phase will replace the outdoor pool slide. City staff and the contractor worked with Ramy Bergen Smith Architects (referenced by staff) on design and delivery for this design–build project.

Next steps specified in the meeting were limited to awarding the contract and proceeding with construction; the transcript contains no further schedule or start-date details.

The meeting record also notes the contract award recommendation and that JM Cope representatives were present to answer council questions.