Normal hoping for 'aggressive' bids for old city hall remodeling

NORMAL Town leaders hope to attract favorable bids to remodel the former city hall since the work will take place inside over the winter months.

The outcome will determine how much work can be accomplished, because the town only has $100,000 budgeted. Mark Clinch, director of facilities management, said needed work amounts to $434,684.

We will have to see how aggressive the pricing is, said City Manager Mark Peterson at Monday nights city council meeting. If bidding is competitive, we may come back and ask for more money. If not, we will have to lower the scope and do some projects later.

The plan would move the parks and recreation offices from the Linden Street annex to the former council chambers and administrative offices at 100 E. Phoenix Ave., with remodeling estimated at $55,600.

Space formerly used for finance and information technology departments would be used by the police criminal investigation division, with remodeling costs about $100,000.

The bid also would include bringing restrooms in line with Americans with Disabilities Act standards at a cost of $13,073; and remodeling and expanding the police departments womens locker room for $19,516.

Clinch also would like to remodel the police vice unit on the third floor, $132,097; replace carpet, about $26,000; create offices, about $32,000; screen a mens restroom, about $1,500; and upgrade the reception counter, $3,819.

Architectural and engineering costs would amount to about $50,000.

Peterson said the space does not allow much room for growth, even with the work. Were basically catching up and meeting needs, he said.

Councilman Adam Nielsen said if the projects are on a wish list I would become less enamored with it.

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Normal hoping for 'aggressive' bids for old city hall remodeling