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TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin
FROM: Jason Bauer, P.E., Assistant Director of Public Works
DATE: March 16, 2020
SUBJECT:
To authorize the Mayor to execute an agreement with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to accept grant funding through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development Program (OSLAD) in the amount of $365,000 for improvements to Wilder Park.
PURPOSE:
By executing the attached agreement, the City will receive 50% of the cost of the Wilder Park Improvements up to $365,000. The improvements consist of the removal of River Street between Vine Street and West Park Avenue and the construction of a concession stand, restrooms, new playground equipment, a concrete plaza, landscaping and lighting.
BACKGROUND:
In 2019, the Finance Committee granted permission to staff to apply for a 50/50 OSLAD grant for improvements to Wilder Park. The City was informed that the project was selected for grant funding and the project was budgeted accordingly for construction in 2020. As the design is nearing completion for construction commencement this summer, the City needs to execute and return the grant agreement, attached as exhibit 1.
DISCUSSION:
Upon completion of the improvements, the space will be more functional and will provide opportunities for food truck festivals, farmers markets and other gatherings. The plaza will connect Wilder Park to the new pedestrian bridge and allow for greater utilization of the area in conjunction with activities at RiverEdge Park.
The project is budgeted in account 235-4440-451.73-43 (CIP A053) Capital Outlay-Improvement/Park Improvements in the amount of $770,000.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
Upon completion of this project, River Street will be closed to traffic between Vine Street and West Park Avenue. No other major impacts are anticipated.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
I recommend execution of the attached agreement.
cc: Infrastructure and Technology Committee
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
RESOLUTION NO. ...
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