SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve Supplemental Work Order Two to AtkinsRealis USA, Inc., of Tampa, FL, for Lower Spring Branch Stormwater Improvements (Project No.14-0048-EN), an increase of $177,052.00 for a new work order value of $626,346.00 per Request for Qualifications (RFQ) 18-18; and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent).
Body
SUMMARY:
The Lower Spring Branch Stormwater Improvements Project is identified as Project 1B in the Stevenson Creek Watershed Management Plan (WMP), prepared by the City of Clearwater with cooperative funding and participation from the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD). The project will provide flood relief for approximately eleven (11) homes within the watershed, removing them from the 100-year floodplain. The construction scope includes replacement of the Springtime Avenue and Overbrook Avenue bridges and the addition of larger box culverts under Douglas Avenue.
On August 14, 2018, City Council approved the initial Work Order with Atkins North America for $309,044.00 and the SWFWMD Cooperative Funding Agreement (N915) providing reimbursement of up to 50% of design and construction costs (maximum $1,160,000.00 to the City) and including Pinellas County as a third-party participant (maximum $500,000.00 SWFWMD reimbursement to County). Pinellas County will reimburse the City 25% of the Douglas Avenue crossing cost, not to exceed $270,000.00, for a total potential reimbursement of $1,430,000.00.
On February 17, 2022, Council approved Supplemental Work Order One in the amount of $140,250.00 for permitting associated with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers requirements and adjustments to the 90% construction plans due to unforeseen challenges not captured in the original scope of work.
On June 6, 2025, Council approved Amendment Two extending the SWFWMD Cooperative Funding Agreement through December 1, 2029, to allow for sufficient time for property and easement acquisitions, final design, and permitting coordination with regulatory agencies. Reimbursement values were not changed.
This $177,052.00 Supplemental Work Order Two provides critical design refinements, as design is being finalized for construction and limited construction-phase services, not included in the original scope/design work order. This supplement supports extensions to the SWFWMD and USACE permits, final survey verifications due to hurricane impacts and recent property acquisition by the City, design of decorative traffic-rated railings to help preserve the character of the replaced bridges, and tree mitigation design outside the right-of-way, consistent with permitting and aesthetic requirements, not included in the original scope. Additionally, it includes limited construction-phase support to ensure smooth coordination through construction completion, standard for all city projects. These services are essential for safeguarding the City’s position in retaining cooperative funding and will help ensure overall project success. In collaboration with the consultant, Public Works staff refined the project scope and prioritized key tasks to achieve cost efficiencies while preserving the technical integrity of the work. The Public Works team’s efforts resulted in a fee reduction of ~15% or $31,230.00.
Construction is anticipated to begin by Summer 2026 and will be completed by Summer 2028.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
ENST180010-DSGN-PROSVC $177,052.00
Funding for this work order is available within Capital Improvement Projects ENST180010, Lower Spring Branch Improvements, funded by revenues from the Stormwater Utility Enterprise Fund.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.2 Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts.
2.4 Support equitable housing programs that promote housing stability and reduce the incidence of homelessness within Clearwater.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and belonging.
3.2 Preserve community livability through responsible development standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
3.4 Inspire civic participation through civic engagement and volunteerism to build strong, inclusive, and engaged communities.
4.1 Support proactive climate resiliency strategies based in science to protect natural and built environments from impacts associated with sea level rise.
4.3 Protect the conservation of urban forests and public green spaces to promote biodiversity and reduce our carbon footprint.
