Agenda - Public Works Committee - 10/15/2024 - 09/16/2025

Home

5. COMMITTEE BUSINESS 6. COMMITTEE / STAFF INPUT 6.01: Receive Updates on Improvement Projects, Studies, and Items of Interest Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood provided an update on the planning for the waterplay area at The Waterfront, including restrooms, architectural features, other activities, parking, landscaping, and other elements. He also provided information on capacity and the other uses that could be considered for the space. He noted a grant received for landscaping enhancements and provided information on the overall project timeline and schedule. Commissioner Riley asked for an update on Central Park and the new playground. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood commented that the new playground has been a success that is appreciated by residents and visitors. He referenced the music components, noting that one tube was bent upon installation and has since been removed for replacement. He stated that he continues to follow up to determine when that piece would be received and installed. Chairperson Olson asked if there are plans for outdoor speakers in the waterplay area. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood commented that they could consider that, as he is looking into that feature for The Draw as well. He noted that the outdoor speakers could always be added after the fact as well. He also provided an update on the TH 47 trail connection and related conversations with MnDOT. City Engineer/Public Works Director Westby provided an update on current and proposed City, County, and MnDOT improvement projects and studies, and other items of interest to the Committee. He provided more specific information on the water treatment plant project, noting that he will be bringing a case forward to the Council worksession next week related to project costs, construction delays, and what the contractor and engineering consultant feel they have done to keep the project on track. He stated that the contractor would be provided an opportunity to provide information on the requested time extension. Councilmember Specht commented that the City paid extra ahead of time to get the project done sooner. City Engineer/Public Works Director Westby commented that, unfortunately, the contractor did not factor winter conditions into the timeline for their initial time extension request. He stated that if the change order is not approved, AE2S will still request additional funds for the extended construction timeline. Councilmember Specht asked what would happen if that is not approved. Public Works Committee / July 15, 2025 Page 2 of 4