TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing City Manager to submit a grant application to California State Parks and Recreation through the Recreational Trails Program in the amount of $257,813 for the replacement of two trail bridges at the El Dorado Nature Center, at a total estimated cost of $292,970. (District 4)
DISCUSSION
The Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) is requesting approval to apply for grant funding to replace two wooden trail bridges at the EI Dorado Nature Center (Nature Center). The Nature Center was developed in 1969, with the museum building located on an island connected to the main area of the Nature Center by two bridges.
One large trail bridge connects the Nature Center museum to the entrance area and a parking lot on the east, and a second smaller trail bridge connects the museum to the trails and habitat on the west (Attachment A).
Over the past 40 years, the wooden bridges have been heavily used by the public visiting the Nature Center, but do not meet current ADA requirements. In addition, the bridges have deteriorated due to age and being exposed to the elements, and they have become infested with termites. Due to all of these factors, the bridges have now reached the end of their usable lifespan. Currently, staff must spend an increasing amount of time and funds to maintain the bridges at a usable level. If awarded, grant funds will provide for the replacement of both wooden bridges.
PRM is applying for a total of $257,813 in grant funding from California State Parks and Recreation through the Recreational Trails Program, at a total estimated project cost of $292,970. The grant requires 12 percent in matching funds, which totals $35,157. Of the $35,157, PRM staff time to manage the project accounts for $8,000, with Partners of Parks donating $27,157 in funds designated for the Nature Center. The Recreational Trails Program provides funds annually for recreational trails and trails-related projects through...
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