Rooster River projects to be rebid; Fairchild Wheeler nine-hole area slated to close Sept. 20

Bill Hurley (staff member) told the board on May 19 that specifications and final plans for the Rooster River projects — including work at Fairchild Wheeler Golf Course — are ready and will be put out to bid in the coming weeks. The meeting heard that the contractor would likely close the nine-hole portion of the course on Sept. 20 to begin full construction.

Hurley said the current procurement is a rebid of the construction contract rather than a redesign: the plans and permits remain valid, but insurance and access uncertainties were clarified to reduce project unknowns. He said Bridgeport has provided additional access and that contractors now have more time to mark utilities, which should reduce risk and contingency costs.

Board members asked whether the bid was for the outcome or the pre-established construction; Hurley said the design is set on paper and bidders are pricing construction per the plans. The chair and members noted they had sought RTM approval for contingency funding and expected additional funding to be available if bids come in higher than anticipated.

The board also discussed the historic single or dual bids and the need to ensure permits remain valid if plans are changed. Next procedural steps: release bid documents, open bids, seek board-of-selectmen approval of a recommended contractor, and begin construction following required approvals and the Sept. 20 course closure.