SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a new Capital Improvement Project, Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex Renovations - PRAF180001, for the purpose of renovating and upgrading facilities at the EC Moore Complex for player and spectator safety as well as provide for a facility that can host major television broadcasting and production; approve a third quarter budget amendment transfer of $495,000 of Penny funds from Bicycle Paths-Bridges (CIP 315-93272) and $295,000 of general fund from 2017/18 Parks and Recreation salary savings to establish this project. (consent)
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SUMMARY:
The City has hosted many important softball events and tournaments over the past several years, including USA Softball annual tryout camp, and now has the opportunity to host events that will be broadcast on ESPN with the first ever St. Petersburg Clearwater Elite Invitational Tournament to be held in Clearwater at the EC Moore Complex February 14 - 17, 2019.
Some of the teams scheduled to attend include the 2018 NCAA Division I Women’s College Softball Champion Florida State Seminoles, and the 2016 and 2017 NCAA Division I Champion Oklahoma Sooners. In order to accommodate the ESPN production of this event several improvements and renovations are needed to be made specifically at EC Moore 8 & 9 including open access to the press box, camera stands and unobstructed views of the field. Additionally, fan safety, neighboring safety and infrastructure that has completed its useful life.
Renovations to upgrade the existing batting tunnels as well as expanding the fields to accommodate national and international play on the fields.
Due to the timing of the ESPN event in February 2019 staff is recommending the establishment of this new Capital Improvement Project now rather than waiting until next year budget approval as there will not be enough time to get the work completed.
The renovations and improvements will enhance the facilities and be available to our local teams and programs.
Staff is recommending that funding for this project come from existing penny funds in the Bike Path and Bridge CIP as well as general fund salary savings in Parks and Recreation. The transfer of the Penny funds will in no way jeopardize current or future bike path projects which include Del Oro Trail Head, Courtney Campbell Overpass and repairs to Ream Wilson Trail.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
A third quarter budget amendment will provide a transfer of $495,000 of Penny funds from capital improvement project 315-93272, Bicycle Paths-Bridges, and $295,000 of general fund to capital improvement project PRAF180001, Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex Renovations, to fund this contract.
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS: N/A