Minutes - Council - 02/10/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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5:13: Adopt Resolution #26-046 Approving Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Water Crossing License No. UWAT014269 Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Heineman, Councilmembers Buscher, Olson, Peters, Riley, Specht, and Stewart. Voting No: None. 6. PUBLIC HEARING None. 7. COUNCIL BUSINESS 7.01: Adopt Resolution #26-042 Authorizing Contract Amendment with H & U Construction for Improvement Project #25-58, Waterfront Waterplay Park Improvements Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood presented a resolution seeking authorization to fully fund the Waterfront Park splash pad project, the City of Ramsey's largest single park project to date, with a total cost of approximately $3.7 million. He explained that the project is the result of decades of resident input, beginning with the 1998 comprehensive planning process and continuing through multiple rounds of public engagement. Residents consistently expressed a desire for a walkable downtown with amenities, trail connections, urban parks, and specifically a splash pad. The City Council responded to these requests over time by prioritizing infrastructure and park investments, which in turn supported private development that generated the park dedication funds used to finance this project. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood noted that similar investments, such as the Draw Park, completed in 2010, have become well-used and valued community assets, hosting events like summer concerts and fostering social connection. He stated that the Waterfront Park is expected to provide similar community benefits. The planned Waterfront Park will accommodate more than 1,000 patrons and include a 17,000-square-foot plaza with multiple activity zones, including toddler-friendly water features, varied spray elements, shaded and sunlit seating areas, hammocks, artificial turf, reservable shelters with lighting and outlets, and spaces suitable for programming and private events such as birthday parties. The splash pad and water features will be significantly larger than those at comparable facilities in the region, including Maple Grove’s. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood explained that additional amenities include landscaping, stone seating areas, LED lighting features, and fire elements intended to extend usability into cooler evenings and the shoulder seasons, providing recreational opportunities for adults and children. He reported that in October 2025, the City Council approved a contract with H & U Construction for preconstruction services. The design team has since completed detailed plans and specifications, conducted competitive bidding, and established a guaranteed maximum project price of just over $3.6 million, including an owner contingency. He concluded that approval of Resolution #26-042 would allow construction to begin immediately, with an anticipated construction timeline of approximately four and a half months and a projected public opening date City Council /February 10, 2026 Page 14 of 20