Lee County awards purchases and construction contract for Kiwanis Children’s Park Phase 2

The Lee County Board of Commissioners voted May 6 to approve two spending actions to advance Kiwanis Children’s Park Phase 2.

Parks staff (Mr. Kiel) told the board the county had two procurement tracks: playground and shelter equipment (procured through a vendor described by staff as "churches") and earthwork, grading and concrete. He said the purchase for the shelter, restroom and a nature-themed playground for ages 2–5 would cost $120,565. "One thing I do want to point out on the budget impact...the contingency for this project is 22,836," Kiel said.

The board then authorized awarding the construction contract for the earthwork and concrete to Mark's Construction, the lowest responsive bidder after rebids, at $357,095 and authorized the chair to sign once legal approval is complete. Commissioners asked whether restrooms would be usable year-round; staff said heaters will be added. Commissioners also confirmed the new shelter will not have power.

Board members pressed staff about a parallel Department of Transportation (DOT) land-swap and whether DOT funding would cover the amenities. Staff said DOT had offered roughly $73,000; an email cited by staff indicated a November estimate of $100,000 for a shelter (no bathroom) plus $85,000 for parking and sidewalks, totaling $185,000 at that time and without lights. Kiel and other staff warned that construction costs have since risen and that $73,000 would not cover the amenities discussed.

Votes at a glance

- Purchase of shelter/restroom/playground: $120,565 — approved by voice vote.
- Construction contract award to Mark's Construction: $357,095 — approved by voice vote.

What happens next

Staff will finalize contracts subject to legal review, proceed with procurement and construction, and continue coordination with DOT and state parks and recreation on any required land-swap conditions.