Council authorizes test stain for Fitch Aquatic Center precast panels, empowers staff to pilot and report back

Council considered options for addressing a blotchy, inconsistent appearance on precast concrete panels at the new Fitch Aquatic Center. Staff and the design team presented a mock-up showing the proposed 'Rushing River' opaque penetrating stain and reported the manufacturer would warranty the product for 25 years when applied per instructions. Construction staff said the stain is designed to reduce visible modeling and produce a more uniform facade.

Council debated whether to accept a contractor credit instead of staining, to pursue full staining immediately, or to test a larger area first. Concern was raised about sealing the concrete and losing the ability to revert or improve later if the stain is unsatisfactory. Council authorized staff to proceed with alternative 1 (staining using the proposed color) but directed staff to carry out a larger test patch in a less-visible but representative area and return if the test indicates the stain does not sufficiently eliminate the blotchy effect. Construction operations committed to provide detailed warranty/specification language to staff for review before any full-application decision.