Title
Resolution approving two (2) change orders to the Ponce de Leon Boulevard Median Installation & Roadway Improvements Phase II Project under Section 2-829 of the Procurement Code in the amount of $303,044.82 for modifications to the median landscaping plan; further authorizing an amendment to the 2010-2011 Annual Budget for an appropriation of $159,620 for the amount to be reimbursed from Miami- Dade County Road Impact Fees.
Department Head Recommendation
Approval.
Brief History
On March 11, 2010 the City of Coral Gables entered into construction contract IFB 2009.12.01 with Tran Construction, Inc. for the purpose of completing the Ponce de Leon Boulevard Median Installation & Roadway Improvements Phase II Project. The project includes pedestrian improvements and the installation of a new landscaped median. This change order revises the proposed landscaping in the median and provides for the installation of Medjool Palms in lieu of the Live Oaks and Thrynax Palms.
Medjool Palms have a distinctive trunk and beautiful upright foliage that provides maturity and tropical formality. As Ponce de Leon Boulevard traverses through the heart of Downtown Coral Gables, this new landscaping scheme with grand scale Medjools would complement the existing corridor and provide an appropriate link to Miracle Mile. The Medjool Palms would replace the Live Oaks in the medians with a larger and more elegant feel. This proposed change in landscaping was presented to and unanimously approved by the Landscape Beautification Advisory Board at their December 2, 2010 meeting.
Change Order No. 1 provides for the installation of the new Medjool Palms on the Ponce de Leon Boulevard Phase II project and Change Order No. 2 provides for the replacement of the existing trees previously installed on the Phase I project with Medjool Palms. All of the existing trees that are replaced will be replanted in public rights of way within the City. A sixty (60) days time extension will also be granted to allow for the increased scope of work.
The Ponce de Leon Boulevard Phase II project is funded entirely by a combination of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds and Miami Dade County Impact fees. Change Order No. 1 increases the total project costs from $1,023,069 to $1,182,689. An additional allocation of funds from the available grant monies is requested to cover project costs.
Change order No. 2 is funded from previously appropriated City Funds.