Redevelopment commission approves Sportsplex closeout change orders and reimbursable expenses; project remains under budget

The Hammond Redevelopment Commission approved change orders that close out prime-contractor contracts for the Hammond Sportsplex renovation and expansion, and also approved a reimbursable-expenses change order for Bauer Construction Services.

Staff told the commission there are multiple deductive change orders across divisions of work (precast concrete, structural steel, HVAC and others) that together net roughly $250,000 in credit back to the project. Bauer, acting as construction manager, had submitted reimbursable expenses for items such as materials, geotechnical testing, fencing and screening around the outdoor volleyball court; staff reviewed the invoices and deemed the costs valid. A representative from Bauer, Rudy Perez, was present.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions and were told additional closeout documents will follow because the delivery method used separate prime contracts rather than a general contractor. Commissioner Kubacki moved approval of the closeout change orders and Commissioner Shelton seconded; both the closeout and the reimbursable-expenses change order No. 1 were approved on roll-call votes of 5-0.

Staff indicated more closeout items are expected as remaining prime contracts are finalized; overall budgeting remains favorable to the project at this stage.