River Ridge CDD approves gatehouse redesign and master signage program

The River Ridge Community Development District approved a design contract strategy Oct. 22 to refresh entry gatehouses and replace community monuments and signage across Pelican Sound.

Eric Long presented a fee proposal from RG Architects, P.A. to redesign two gatehouses. The Board discussed design scope (façelifts rather than demolition), elevation and flood‑zone considerations, the need for updated elevation certificates, and a reimbursable up‑front design booking estimated at $62,500 to be invoiced when financing is issued. The Board authorized Bowman to retain RG as a subconsultant under Bowman’s standard terms and authorized the Chair to execute documents after review by District Counsel and the District Manager; the motion passed unanimously.

Separately, the Board approved a Bowman Consulting Group proposal for landscape architecture services to replace master and neighborhood monuments. The project will use Pelican Sound replacement reserves for neighborhood monument costs; some monuments will be relocated. Staff said design and permitting would take 12–18 months and that contracting through Bowman as prime would be most expedient.

Mr. Long said RG provides detailed 3‑D renderings and visual aids to convey the design vision; Mr. Krebs will confirm next steps and any Subconsultant Agreement markups. The Board designated Mr. Long to lead the project and Mr. Blumenthal to serve as Board liaison and provide monthly communication updates to neighborhoods.

Funding and final construction schedules were not finalized; staff said construction is anticipated to begin in 2026 once financing is in place.