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The first thing that a city parks and recreation planner
thinks when
faced with the prospect of a skatepark is: "How are we going
to make this thing?"
Now you, the city representative, have about ten choices to
make and you most likely do not know where to start. Even
if you do know
where to start, you are going to find out that your staff needs
more information. On the web you find web pages like mine
that tell you
that you need to have a company that is skater-owned and hires
skaters to build the park, or you are making a mistake.
This is generally true but you have to know more. Here is
where you must address the issues of scheduling, location,
budget,
and type
of skatepark. Then, under each of these headings there are
variables that affect the overall project in respect to
budget and even
neighborhood opinion.
There is the process which a community is required to follow,
starting with an RFP and opening the project to the public
for bid. That
is when you need to know more about the final product.
You need a preliminary
drawing but the plan is going to change, so it’s a waste,
but you need an idea of what this park is going to be so you can
calculate
some of the quantities and work that will be encountered.
Most skatepark construction companies only work on a design/build
type of agreement. I have found that is the most convenient
way to bid, plan and execute the construction of a park.
These companies
will bid on a job that is not their design, but the price
is going
to be higher and since the government usually insists
on taking the lowest bid, the quality of the finished product
is compromised.
The only reason we are dissecting this subject is to
address the options that I have seen other communities
succeed
with. The first
option is to write a description of the project in
a way that limits the number of contractors who can bid
on the
job. This
limits some
smaller companies that are otherwise eligible. To put
more specific limitations such as prior experience
requirements may limit the
number of bidders and limit you choices.
You realize it is a work intensive process to find
an architectural firm that can create a design that
the
kids will like (because
if the skaters think the park sucks they will hang
out on the street
instead). You then have to choose an experienced
construction company or the same scenario with the kids will occur.
Now you need to choose the location and you run a
gauntlet of complications such as noise; transportation
access
for the skaters;
availability
of services-water, toilets, and phone; compatibility
with other uses of the area; geography/topography;
ground water
and access
to drainage;
size; and impact of lighting.
Think you have it now? Try finding all these answers
in the same place.
Alltec Skateparks is that source. I work with
you in person, walking the site, giving you
the information
that you need
to best choose
the options that best fit the location. I also
guarantee a popular design. My company is insured
with $1,000,000.00
liability
and
is bondable. The company can provide plans
and do the
construction.
Or, if you have to follow the standard process,
A.S.I. can work with the local professional
services to
consult them
on all aspects
of
the project. If you choose to hire me as
a consultant, our agreement will require my accepting
all services
and insuring
that they
meet national building specification standards.
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