Mayor Don Wesely today said the signing of Legislative Bill 968 by Governor Mike Johanns last week will allow the construction of the new South Central Community Center, formerly known as the "F" Street Recreation Center. On a 44 to zero vote April 3, the State Legislature passed the bill, which includes a provision which clarifies the ability of cities to bond against the receipt of Municipal Infrastructure Redevelopment Funds (MIRF).
"I want to thank Governor Johanns and the Legislature, especially Senators Dave Landis and Chris Beutler, for recognizing the importance of this project," Mayor Wesely said. "The neighborhood has waited a long time for these badly needed renovations, and we are very pleased that we can proceed."
The bill's passage makes it possible for the city to issue bonds to fund the project. The Finance Department believes that the necessary steps to ensure the financing for the Center will be taken by June 1, which will give them time to create the necessary financial agreements and set a date for bond issuance.
The Parks and Recreation Department is currently reviewing the project design. The construction documents will be submitted for permit review on Thursday, April 20. The proposed timeline for construction is as follows:
Friday, April 28, 2000 Release contract documents for printing
Friday, May 5, 2000 Submit "Notice to Bidders" to local newspaper
Wednesday, May 17, 2000 Pre-Bid Conference (on-site)
Thursday, June 1, 2000 Construction Bids due at 12:00 p.m.
Monday, June 5, 2000 Approval of Bids
Groundbreaking for the project is expected to occur the second week of June and take 18 months, with the Center opening in January 2002.
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