1/27/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

600K FAGE TO: James Chandler County Administrator THROUGH: James W. Davis, P.E. Public Works Director Terry B. Thompson, P.E. Capital Projects Manager FROM: G. Sean McGuire, P.E. Project Engineer SUBJECT: Wabasso Causeway Park Beautification Project Resolution for Florida Department of Transportation Grant DATE: January 21, 1998 This project is being designed by Brad Smith Associates, who are preparing an application for the Florida Department of Transportation's Highway Beautification Grant. The application requires a resolution from the governing authority. The preliminary construction cost estimate is $275,892.00, of which the Florida Department of Transportation may grant up to 50% in matching funds. Even though this estimate is above the initial cost envisioned for the project, it is advantageous to proceed with the entire scope through design, and consider cutting back for construction. Staff recommends that the Board adopt the resolution and authorize the Chairman to execute the resolution. Funding will be from account #315-210-572-068.09. Commissioner Ginn felt this is a very pricey project and wondered whether all this is necessary. Public Works Director Jim Davis advised he had met with the consultant, Brad Smith, who has tried to design the project with native vegetation. He and Mr. Smith agree that an application should be made for a fairly aggressive plan that could be scaled back later. Commissioner Adams noted there is quite a bit of vehicular traffic at that park and a lot of erosion. She felt the project will enhance the park and make it safer. Director Davis emphasized that most of this project is landscaping. Chairman Tippin agreed that it is a rather extensive project and realized that "native" is the current buzz word. However, native or not, the landscaping will have to be maintained forever so he felt the project needs serious review when the time comes. Commissioner Macht wanted to know what will happen to the Australian pines. Brad Smith, the consultant, stated he felt they should be left in place to enhance the stabilization of the shoreline. Commissioner Macht commented that these trees also fall over and wanted serious consideration given to getting them out and replacing them with something that holds the soil better. JANUARY 27, 1998 0 -30-