Title
Resolution to Approve a Professional Services Agreement with Progressive Companies for Design and Engineering Services for the Ice Arena Improvements Project ($256,500.00)
Memorandum
Attached for your review and action is a resolution to approve a Professional Services Agreement with Progressive Companies in the amount of $256,500.00 with $51,300.00 (20%) contingency for Design and Engineering Services for the Ice Arena Improvements Project.
Background: City of Ann Arbor Parks owns two ice arenas: the Buhr Park outdoor covered rink and Veterans Memorial Park indoor rink.
Both arenas' refrigeration systems are indirect R22 systems. R22 refrigeration systems were constructed from the early 1970s through approximately the year 2000 and were known for low energy usage and their capability to produce high quality ice surfaces. However, their use was effectively eliminated when the EPA determined that R-22 is a major contributor of greenhouse gas emissions and ozone depletion, and instituted regulations to curtail its use. As of January 1, 2020, U.S. production and import of R-22 ended, forcing existing systems to use recycled or stockpiled sources. The EPA noted that supply will decline over the next few years, and prices are likely to increase, making planning for replacing these systems important. While switching to alternative refrigerants can significantly improve energy efficiency, it necessitates retrofitting or replacing equipment at significant cost.
The ice arenas' role as a community gathering place and the necessity to transition to a new refrigeration system, have all led to this being a high priority project for the Park System.
Project Description: On September 2, 2025, City Council accepted and appropriated $500,000.00 in federal Land and Water Conservation (LWCF) grant funds, with $500,000.00 City match, for accessibility and sustainability improvements to the Buhr Park Ice Arena (R-25-328). This grant provides assistance to replace t...
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