TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing City Manager to submit a grant application to California State Parks through the Recreational Trails Program in the amount of $224,269 for the replacement of a pedestrian trail bridge at the El Dorado Nature Center; and accept a donation of $52,753 from Partners of Parks, for a total estimated cost of $277,022. (District 4)
DISCUSSION
The EI Dorado Nature Center was developed in 1969, with the visitor's center located on an island connected to the main habitat area by wooden bridges. The West Bridge (Attachment A) is in need of replacement, as it has deteriorated due to age, exposure to the elements, and termite infestation; it does not meet current ADA requirements; and it has reached the end of its usable lifespan. Currently, staff must spend an increasing amount of time and funds to maintain the West Bridge at a usable level. If awarded, grant funds will provide for the complete replacement of the wooden West Bridge.
The Recreational Trails Program provides funds annually for recreational trails and trail-related projects through federal highway transportation funds administered at the state level by California State Parks. The Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine would like to apply for a total of $224,269 in grant funding from California State Parks through the Recreational Trails Program. The total direct project cost to replace the West Bridge is $254,850, plus $22,172 for City overhead (8.7 percent) that is ineligible for grant reimbursement, for a total cost of $277,022. The grant requires 12 percent of direct costs in matching funds, or $30,581 ($254,850 x 12%). Partners of Parks has agreed to fund the 12 percent match of $30,581 and the City's 8.7 percent overhead rate of $22,172, for a total donation to the project of $52,753.
This matter was reviewed and the Resolution prepared by Deputy City Attorney Gary J.
Anderson on October 6, 2009, and Budget and Performance Management Bureau Manager David Wodynski reviewed this matter on October 8,2009.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on November 3, 2009, in order to provide grant application documents to California State Parks in a timely manner.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total cost of the project is estimated at $277,022. Grant monies will offset 88 percent of the grant eligible direct project costs, or $224,269. Partners of Parks will donate $52,753 to fund the 12 percent matching requirement of $30,581 and the City overhead costs of $22,172.
Should the grant application be selected for funding, a recommendation will be made to the City Council to accept and appropriate both the Recreational Trails Program grant and the Partners of Parks funding.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LONG BEACH APPROVING THE APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS FROM THE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM.
Respectfully Submitted,
PHIL T. HESTER
DIRECTOR OF PARKS, RECREATION AND MARINE
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APPROVED: |
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PATRICK H. WEST |
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CITY MANAGER |