By HOLLY GASKILL
Initial bids for the interurban trail expansion had come in nearly double the initial projection, said Parks Department Superintendent Brandy Fiechter. Because of this, the project will rebid.
The project’s engineer estimated the work would cost $525,000. Fiechter stated one contractor quoted over $900,000, and when offered a more flexible timeline, the quote rose to just over $1 million.
On Thursday night, Fiechter told the park board they hope if they rebid with a later completion date, they’ll receive more favorable quotes.
The board also heard about the department’s summer events, which have received great participation thus far. The first concert at Kehoe Park garnered 1,100 in attendance, and 650 followed for the second. Additionally, some of the top-attended children’s events included 65 in attendance for a tour of the stone quarry, 167 for the foam party, and 89 for animal explorers.
With this, Fiechter updated the board regarding the concession stand sales. Coaches from local leagues had previously asked the board to open the stand closest to the girls’ diamond.
At the time, Fiechter said the stand had often closed during the season because sales did not support it remaining open. This season, Fiechter said, the stand lost money for much of the season but recouped most of it toward the end of the season and tournament.
Other updates were:
• Parker McCartney will be working with the department to raise money and build and new shed for the Wells Community Pool.
• The board accepted donations of $5,000 from Patricia Troxel, $1,800 from Bargain Hut, $500 from Perry and Stephanie Gerber, $250 from TTG and $1,000 from Dr. George Backcok.
holly@news-banner.com
