Bristol Public Safety Building Update

Having been asked many times, “How is the new building coming?” or “What’s going on with the Public Safety Building?”, we hope that this will provide some answers and let you know that things are still progressing.

Financing

Financing has been secured since shortly after Town Meeting. This is good as we were able to obtain a low interest rate just before the rates started to rise over the summer. That money is deposited and ready to go.

Insurance/Bonding

This has been the cause of the delays in this project. A volatile market, fast paced inflation, supply chain issues, and the labor market were all concerns we had that would drive construction costs. What we have found out is that these same concerns are influencing the insurance underwriters. There are certain insurances that are required by law, and there are others that are best practice to ensure the Town’s investment. While we investigated this and Groen continued to work with the insurance companies we froze all work. As the market stabilized and underwriting became more favorable work began again on the preconstruction phase toward the end of the summer.

Pre-Construction

This is the phase we are currently in. The architects are finalizing drawings, the civil engineer is finalizing site plans, and working on certain permits. Soon this information will go to structural and mechanical engineering for electrical, plumbing, and heating design, and approval. As these designs are finished bidding will begin.

Next Steps…When will work begin?

Due to the delay, and winter weather approaching, the best course is to hold off on beginning construction until the Spring. Site and foundation work over the winter is not impossible but comes with increased challenges and costs. This wait will allow Groen to identify bidders and rebid where it makes sense to get the best price.

We continue to work closely with Groen to ensure the Town gets exactly the building it needs for the best possible price. Like all of you we look forward to seeing heavy machines and hard hats at 230 Lake Street in the Spring of 2023.