Title
Resolution to Approve a Contract with JB Contractors, Inc. to Make Barrier Free Improvements to the Path System at the Leslie Science and Nature Center ($115,309.50)
Memorandum
Attached for your review and action is a resolution to approve a $115,309.50 contract with JB Contractors, Inc. to make barrier free path improvements at the Leslie Science and Nature Center.
The Leslie Science and Nature Center (LSNC) is a popular destination for people of all ages. Residents visit the park to walk the trails on site and the woods, and to visit the raptor exhibits, a unique opportunity. The site is also heavily used for programs and day camps.
The current path system is not barrier free and is difficult to navigate. The raptor enclosures, which house an eagle, owls, hawks and other raptors, and is one of the most popular features of the site, has no connecting pathway and is not ADA accessible. Access to the Critter House, which houses various small animals as well as day camps and other programs, is also not barrier free. The path system does not function well to serve buildings that have changed use over time, and it is difficult to figure out where to check in for programs or to find the enclosures. There are also several erosion issues that are due to the hilly topography of the site, and have caused flooding in the basement of the nature house, as well as runoff in the parking lot.
The goals of this project are to make the facility barrier free, to improve drainage and solve erosion problems, decrease impervious surfaces, improve circulation and clarify way finding. These goals are identified as infrastructure needs in the current Parks and Recreation Open Space Plan.
In order to address these issues, a master plan was developed in conjunction with the Leslie Science and Nature Center board. A public meeting was held to obtain input from neighbors. The board and citizens were enthusiastic about the planning effort and resulting plan. PAC unanimous...
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