Margate CRA approves three change orders totaling $86,013.66 for Margate Boulevard improvements

The Margate Community Redevelopment Agency on Feb. 11 approved three change orders to the Margate Boulevard crosswalk and landscape improvements contract with FG Construction LLC: Change Order #3 for $7,049.06, Change Order #4 for $17,647.20, and Change Order #5 for $61,317.40, for a total of $86,013.66. The board also authorized a 14‑day contract time extension and authorized the chair to execute the change orders. The recorded roll call vote was unanimous.

Staff explained that the change orders address restoration work at East River Drive and Murray Boulevard (asphalt showing distress), a driveway apron west of Ace Plaza that is out of ADA compliance (requiring removal, regrading and repaving), and a significant roadway depression near the right‑turn lane at Margate Boulevard and 441 believed to be caused by decaying organic material. Staff said these items were not part of the original scope and that excavation, backfill and compaction will be required rather than a simple mill and overlay.

Board members questioned why the issues were not identified in the original project review and whether the project manager, Chenmore, should have caught them during design. The city attorney and other board members noted that change orders are common in complex construction projects, that some items only become apparent during construction, and that staff will continue to negotiate pending change orders and look for value protections. Staff confirmed one additional change order was pending and under negotiation.

The CRA voted to approve the three change orders after discussion and the clerk recorded yes votes from Board members Schwartz, Serio, Simone, Vice Chair Rosano and Chair Casiano.

Staff listed follow‑up actions including expanded documentation to explain pending change orders and continued oversight of contractor pricing and performance.