PRESENTER: Presenter
Scott McClelland, Assistant Transportation and Capital Improvements Director
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SUBJECT: Title
Approval of an additional project contingency for the Last Tuber’s Exit Project and authorization for the City Manager to execute any change orders and project expenditures up to the contingency amount.
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DEPARTMENT: Transportation and Capital Improvements
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COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: 5
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The proposed improvements to Last Tuber’s Exit will help reduce staff intervention, reduce the backup of tubers at the lower landing area and stairs, and improve the safety of staff and park users. The construction of these improvements will replace the underwater stairs with additional steps and a 12’ wide underwater landing. Handrails will be replaced, an ADA transfer system will be included, and marker buoys will be added to delineate the underwater landing.
On October 14, 2024, City Council approved a joint contract with NBU and Austin Filter Systems for the exit improvements and associated waterline relocations with a total cost of $1,166,200 including $1,103,700 for the City’s portion for the exit improvements and $62,500 for NBU’s portion for waterline adjustments. Council also approved a 10% owner’s contingency to the City’s portion for a City’s total construction cost of $1,214,070.
The subsurface conditions of the riverbed were evaluated upon demolition of the existing landing and present opportunities for adjustments to the foundation system, which will allow the project team to adjust the footing depths as the installation occurs.
The New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation (NBEDC) approved a contribution of $1,200,000 for this project. In addition, $250,000 from the City’s FY 2025 budget was allocated for construction of this project. To-date $168,259 has been approved for the project. Staff recommends increasing the project contingency by $81,000, which is the remainder of the original allocation and will provide for any necessary adjustments. This increase will bring the total project contingency to 17%.
ISSUE:
Congestion and safety concerns at the Last Tuber’s Exit
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
☐Economic Mobility ☐Enhanced Connectivity ☒Community Identity
☐Organizational Excellence ☒Community Well-Being ☐N/A
New Braunfels is known for its river recreation. The proposed improvements will enhance the user experience and safety for river-goers and staff.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The NBEDC has approved funding up to $1,200,000 for the construction phase of this project. On May 13, 2024, Council approved a $154,179 contract amendment with FNI for bidding and construction phase services. The additional construction phase funding required has been allocated in the FY 2025 budget through the reallocation of 2013 Bond Funds for park facility repairs and enhancements. Therefore, sufficient funds are available.
Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION:
Approval of an additional project contingency for the Last Tuber’s Exit Project and authorization for the City Manager to execute any change orders and project expenditures up to the contingency amount.