PRESENTER: Presenter
Scott McClelland, Assistant Director of Transportation and Capital Improvements
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SUBJECT: Title
Discuss and consider a resolution recommended by the New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation approving a project expenditure of up to $7,200,000 to the City of New Braunfels for the construction of Castell Avenue Phase 1 - Coll Street Drainage Improvement, a project authorized under 501.103 of the Texas Local Government Code.
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DEPARTMENT: Economic and Community Development
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COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: 5
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On March 9, 2023, New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation (NBEDC) approved final design funding for the Castell Avenue Phase 1 Project which addresses drainage concerns by making improvements to the storm drain system on Coll Street between Castell Avenue and the Comal River.
The NBEDC received an update on this project at its workshop meeting on January 24, 2024. The construction plans are presently 60% complete and a construction cost estimate was provided. Three alternatives were offered for consideration: 1. Adding proposed trees only; 2. Adding enhanced landscaping with plantings and hardscape; and 3. Completing underground electric and telecommunication conversions and adding street lighting. The NBEDC Board agreed to adding all three alternatives to the final project.
For the utility companies to begin with their design of the underground conversion for the project, a commitment for construction funding is required. Staff is recommending approval of construction funding at this time based on the 60% design estimate with contingency. Staff will update the Board as the design progresses and additional cost estimates are prepared.
The 100% design plans for the drainage infrastructure and right of way improvements are expected to be completed in the summer and the design of the utility conversion is expected to take approximately one year after the utility companies begin design.
The NBEDC held a public hearing and approved this expenditure unanimously at its February 15, 2024 regular meeting.
A construction contract will be brought to Council for approval at an upcoming meeting.
ISSUE:
Continue an ongoing program of infrastructure construction and maintenance.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The 60% design opinion of probable construction costs, assembled by Kimley Horn, estimates the construction cost to be $7,200,000 which includes contingency. The NBEDC has yet to finalize a financing strategy to support this initiative, however they have the debt capacity and reserves to support the full cost of the project.
Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the approval of this recommendation by the NBEDC for the construction funding for the Castell Avenue Phase 1 Project at an amount of $7,200,000.