River Ridge CDD approves gatehouse redesign and master signage program; Bowman to retain RG Architects

The River Ridge board voted Oct. 22 to authorize Bowman Consulting to retain RG Architects, P.A. as a subconsultant to redesign two gatehouses and also approved Bowman Consulting Group’s proposal for a master signage program.

Eric Long presented the RG Architects fee proposal for a gatehouse facelift and noted the main gate will be removed and redesigned because low clearance has led to repeated impacts. The board discussed zoning, elevations, the need for a new elevation certificate and the availability of original construction drawings. Long asked that the $62,500 design cost be booked as a reimbursable deferred cost to be invoiced when financing is issued; design and permitting were estimated at 12–18 months.

District engineer Charlie Krebs and counsel discussed procurement and contract mechanics; counsel noted that a subconsultant arrangement under Bowman’s terms would be most expedient and that the chair could execute documents after review by counsel and the manager. "On MOTION by Mr. Blumenthal and seconded by Mr. Mountford, with all in favor, authorizing Bowman to retain the services of RG Architects, P.A., as a subconsultant under the standard Bowman terms... was approved," the minutes record.

The board also approved the Bowman Consulting Group proposal to replace monuments and signage across the CDD, charging neighborhood monument replacements to Pelican Sound replacement reserves. Mr. Long said information and renderings will be provided to neighborhoods when appropriate; Mr. Blumenthal will serve as liaison to the board for communications and monthly updates.

Work is expected to proceed to design and permitting with financing and reimbursement to follow when construction is scheduled to begin in 2026.