Title
NW 1st Avenue Streetscape: Project Update (B)
Explanation
NW 1st Avenue from NW 16th Street to NW 20th Street is an important commercial corridor located across the street from the University of Florida and the Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, a big part of Gainesville’s economic and social hub. The NW 1st Avenue project has been a top priority Community Initiative for the College Park / University Heights (CPUH) redevelopment area, and is part of the district’s approved work plan and budget for FY15-16.
In April 2013, an Interim Basis of Design for the corridor was completed by Causseaux, Hewett, & Walpole, Inc. (CHW). Through extensive stakeholder engagement, the design team developed a desired scope of improvements and created a conceptual street layout. The CRA Board approved the 15% and 50% Construction Documents project design in April and September 2014, respectively. Due to changes in GRU’s budget and direction, cost sharing for utility upgrades is currently unavailable for the project. In the past few months, CRA staff has been discussing partnering opportunities with various public and private stakeholders.
Last month, staff presented to CPUH and CRA boards four alternative strategies for moving the project forward. Both boards voted to proceed with “Option 1”, which includes the design and construction of the entire four block corridor, with all desired underground and above ground improvements. This scope will be delivered as two separate projects: NW 1st Ave Project 1: Underground Infrastructure and Roadway Improvements, and NW 1st Ave Project 2: Utility Conversions and Streetscape Improvements. Proposals for engineering services for both projects are attached for board approval.
Fiscal Note
The total $144,797.50 will be encumbered via W715 NW 1st Ave account.
Recommendation
CRA Executive Director to CRA Board: 1) Approve the CHW proposal for professional services for NW 1st Ave Project 1: Underground Infrastructure and Roadway Improveme...
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