Garlic Creek, Onion Creek trail projects updated; change orders and completion targets set

Parks staff reported progress on two bond-funded trail projects during the March 26 commission meeting. Garlic Creek Trail has roughly 800 linear feet completed; staff said a change order deducting $70,000 was approved to specify a naturally weathered bridge finish instead of painted structural material, and staff added 30 days to the contract, putting substantial completion at April 20, 2025.

Onion Creek Trail has more than 1,400 feet poured, but staff described an unexpected manhole condition that requires a retaining wall. That work will increase the contract by $28,660, a change order staff said is "in progress" and has not yet been signed. Commissioners asked about locations and whether work on both sides of Garlic Creek is included; staff said a bridge will connect sides and that some items remain under construction and not yet open to the public.

Staff noted weather and floodplain conditions have slowed progress at times and said crews are addressing erosion and access concerns. The commission asked staff to continue reporting schedule updates as the projects move toward the stated completion target.