HomeMy WebLinkAboutA014 - September 8, 2026, Regular Meeting of the Ames City CouncilITEM #:14
DATE:09-08-26
DEPT:W&PC
SUBJECT:TECHNICAL SERVICES COMPLEX HVAC IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
In February 2026, the City Council approved a professional services agreement with SVPA
Architects for design services associated with the renovation of the Technical Services
Complex (TSC). The original project scope included HVAC system improvements, interior
finish updates, lighting upgrades, building accessibility improvements, and other building
renovations.
As design progressed, staff evaluated project costs against available funding and
determined that it would be prudent to proceed with the HVAC improvements as a
standalone project at this time. The HVAC work addresses the most critical building
infrastructure needs and is necessary to replace aging and failed heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning equipment. The remaining building improvements will be evaluated
and prioritized separately as part of future capital planning efforts.
SVPA Architects has revised the plans and specifications to reflect the HVAC-only scope. The
project generally includes replacement and modernization of HVAC equipment and related
components necessary to improve building performance, reliability, and occupant comfort. The
revised project will be bid as a single-prime construction contract.
Funding for the HVAC Improvements Project is available within the existing Technical Services
Complex Renovation Capital Improvements Plan budget of $2,000,000, funded equally by the
Water Fund ($1,000,000) and the Sewer Fund ($1,000,000). Bidding the HVAC improvements
as a standalone project will allow staff to obtain actual construction costs before making
decisions on future phases of the renovation project. The engineer's cost estimate for the
HVAC improvements is $ 1,570,878.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the preliminary plans and specifications for the Technical Services Complex
HVAC Improvements Project, setting October 14, 2026, as the bid due date and October
27, 2026, as the date of public hearing and award.
2. Direct Staff to revise the project scope and return with updated plans and specifications
3. Take no action at this time and provide direction to staff regarding the future of the
project
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CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The HVAC improvements represent the highest-priority building infrastructure needs
within the Technical Services Complex and are necessary to maintain reliable operation
of the facility. Bidding the HVAC work separately will provide updated construction
pricing and allow the City to evaluate project costs before proceeding with additional
building renovation work. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the
City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as described above.
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