(Edmonds, WA) The City of Edmonds has completed the request for proposal process and has verified that A-1 Landscaping and Construction is officially the winning low bidder. The City Council will consider awarding a construction contract and approve the additional funding necessary to build the park. In addition to the base bid Council will consider four bid alternates each with an additional price tag including an interactive water feature at the park entrance a scramble / climbing wall, rubberizing the current asphalt perimeter path and metal tree grates. Total cost for project construction is estimated at a range of $13.5M to $15M depending on alternates selected, resulting in a shortfall range of $1.5M to $2.9M based on current funding allocation.
In the fall of 2015, after leasing the property for 40 years, Civic Center Playfield was acquired by the City of Edmonds from the Edmonds School District for $1.9M; all but $400,000 was funded by grants. A master plan for the park was developed in 2016-17 with significant community input for the design which features youth athletic fields, upgraded sports lighting, permanent restrooms, improved skate park, petanque court grove, a pollinator meadow, multi-sports court, tennis court, a 1/3-mile perimeter walking path, fully inclusive playground, picnic areas, public art and more.
Allocated construction funding of $12.1M for the park development includes $3.47M in grants, $1.35M in Park Impact Fees and $400,000 in donations (including $258,000 from the Rotary Club of Edmonds to fund the inclusive playground). The remaining $6.9M is made up of bonds, general fund and Real Estate Excise Tax revenues that were allocated in 2019 and held over each year.
“Given the high-water table and poor soil conditions of the site the design below the surface is rather complex,” stated Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director, Angie Feser. “It has taken several years to complete design and obtain the necessary permits in order to develop the site as envisioned in the Master Plan. Construction prices over the past three years have increased significantly and we are now facing a shortfall for completion of the project even at its most basic level.”
If you have input on whether the park should be funded and move into construction as well as your preferred project alternates you are encouraged to attend the July 6, 2021 City Council Meeting virtually and provide public comment.
Alternate #1: Interactive Water Feature at Park Entrance
Alternate #3: Scramble / Climbing Wall
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Contact: Angie Feser, Director, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services
[email protected]