Title
Vote to authorize the County Manager to negotiate and approve the professional services agreement with Freese and Nichols for the Northeast District Park Dam
Abstract
Introduction & Background:
Recent tropical storm events have further distressed the dam, further impacting the condition and threatening the integrity of the dam. The further degradation of the dam requires staff to operate the dam at a lower water level and to observe the dam during and after storm events for worsening and new deficiencies.
Discussion & Analysis:
Freese and Nichols have deployed staff during and/or after each of the storm events providing guidance on emergency mitigation measures. They are familiar with Chatham County staff and needs through the Northwest District Park Dam project.
The dam is in poor condition with deficiencies that could lead to its failure due to a severe storm. These deficiencies include inadequate hydraulic capacity, seepage through the dam embankment, and erosion of the dam due to recent overtopping.
Freese and Nichols, our on-call engineering firm, has visited the site and provided a quote for the assessment and design professional services. The price for this work is $285,000.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: Conserve natural resources, provide recreational opportunities, and ensure public safety.
Budgetary Impact: Professional Services for this work will cost $285,000, this will be funded through the Northeast District Park Dam capital project. There is sufficient funding available within the project to fund this cost.
Recommendation/Motion: Motion to authorize the County Manager to negotiate and approve the professional services agreement with Freese and Nichols for the Northeast District Park Dam.