Memorandum
City of Lawrence
Utilities Department
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TO: |
David L. Corliss, City Manager Diane Stoddard – Assistant City Manager Casey Toomay – Assistant City Manager Brandon McGuire – Assistant to the City Manager |
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FROM: |
Leah Morris, Project Engineer |
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DATE: |
January 27, 2015 |
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CC: |
Dave Wagner – Director of Utilities Mike Lawless – Deputy Director of Utilities Philip Ciesielski – Assistant Director of Utilities Beth Krishtalka – Assistant to the Director Bob Brower – Utilities Operations Superintendent |
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RE: |
UT1421 – Execute an Engineering Services Agreement with BG Consultants for Preliminary Engineering Services for Project UT1421 Kaw Water Plant Field Operations Expansion |
Background
The Department of Utilities has 103 employees, 36 of which are water distribution and sanitary sewer collections system field operations staff housed in an accessory structure within the Kaw Water Treatment Plant commonly referred to as the Collections System Operations Building. This structure currently houses 36 employees. There are three (3) shared office spaces for nine (9) supervisory and management employees. The building has 14’ high bays for the storage of jet trucks, maintenance trucks, TV vans, and the vacuum truck. Spare parts and safety equipment are also kept in this building. There is a break room/kitchen and restroom facilities within the building.
Treanor Architects was contracted to conduct a department wide space needs study as part of the Wakarusa Wastewater Treatment Plant contract. Their evaluation of the Collections Systems Operations Building concluded that the facility requires more square footage to accommodate for current staff and equipment. Treanor’s report states that the building is inadequate and needs to accommodate 40 staff both in a break room and separate men’s and women’s locker room facilities. The vehicle and equipment storage is also inadequate. This space requires more square feet, climate control, sufficient height for equipment and room to maneuver equipment.
Project History
On September 2, 2014, the City Commission authorized staff to Advertise a Request for Proposals for Preliminary Engineering Services.
On September 12, 2014, staff advertised the Request for Proposals for Preliminary Engineering Services via demand star online service and direct mailing.
On October 9, 2014, staff received proposals from five (5) groups. Proposals were received from HDR Engineering, Clark Huesemann, LC., BG Consultants, Sabatini Architects, and Treanor Architects.
On November 4, 2014, the City Commission authorized staff to negotiate an engineering services agreement with the most qualified respondent; BG Consultants.
Current Status
Staff has negotiated an appropriate scope and fee for the initial phase of the project. The initial scope of work includes a concept design and cost evaluations for two (2) options for providing additional space for the Utilities Field Operations Division. The first option evaluates the costs and modifications necessary to add a vehicle bay to the east and west sides of the existing Collection System Operation Building, and modifying the existing Distribution Shop to add restrooms and showers. The second option evaluates the costs and a conceptual site plan for a new facility that would accommodate the field operations, administration, as well as engineering staff.
Funding
The funding for this item is included in the Department of Utilities Capital Improvement Plan.
Action
Authorize the City Manager to execute an Engineering Services Agreement, in the amount of $17,083, with BG Consultants for Preliminary Engineering Services for Project UT1421 Kaw Water Plant Field Operations Expansion.