2021-083 Summary of the September 24 Bond Oversight Committee meetingDate: October 1, 2021 Report No. 2021-083
INFORMAL STAFF REPORT
TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
SUBJECT:
Summary of the Bond Oversight Committee meeting held on September 24, 2021.
BACKGROUND:
The purpose of this report is to provide the City Council with a summary of the Bond Oversight
Committee meeting held on September 24, 2021 to review and discuss General Obligation (GO)
funded projects which include projects from the 2012, 2014, and 2019 bond programs.
DISCUSSION:
Staff presented the status of capital improvement projects, revised project costs, and funding
updates. Additionally, updates regarding CIP project management and process improvement was
shared. The action item of the committee was the reallocation of $2,489,000 2014 GO bonds to
fund the revised project scope of the Westgate Street Reconstruction endorsed by Council on
August 10, 2021. The reallocation was discussed and approved by the committee. Finally, Staff
presented two management reports regarding timeline updates to the bond issuance schedule and
an adjustment to the transportation facility reallocation on the opinion of bond counsel. Staff is
currently scheduled to provide a bond program update to City Council on October 19, 2021.
The Bond Oversight Committee agenda information sheet attached provides a status update on
open projects and those that have been completed as of September 2021.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding the recent Bond
Oversight Committee meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
Bond Oversight Committee Agenda Information Sheet
STAFF CONTACT:
Cassey Ogden, Finance Director
940-349-7195
Cassandra.Ogden@cityofdenton.com
City of Denton
_____________________________________________________________________________________
AGENDA INFORMATION SHEET
DEPARTMENT: Finance Department
ACM: David Gaines
DATE: September 24, 2021
SUBJECT
Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction regarding 2012, 2014, and 2019 General
Obligation (GO) funded capital projects.
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this item is to review the status of voter approved General Obligation (GO) funded projects,
discuss the current allocation of project funds, and provide estimated completion costs for projects. Staff
has included projects to update the committee on the items that have been completed and remain open as
of 2021. Staff has provided a detailed spreadsheet (Exhibit 2) which provides a reconciliation of all current
GO funded projects and recommended funding sources to meet estimated completion costs. Staff will
discuss this spreadsheet in detail with the Committee.
Below is status update on each of the GO funded projects included in Exhibit 2:
2012 Bond Election:
1. Street Reconstruction
The original intent of this project was for the reconstruction of City streets with an Overall Condition
Index (OCI) rating of 40 or less. Staff believed that 216 street segments representing approximately
68.15 lane miles could be completed within the 6-7 years with bonds issued over a 5-year period. To-
date, 179 segments have been completed representing approximately 56.74 lane miles. Staff believes
that the remaining 31 segments will be completed by the fourth quarter of 2022. In order to complete
the 2012 Street reconstruction projects, an additional $2,797,737 was sold in the 2018A Certificates
of Obligation (COs) issuance which occurred in August 2018. Council was presented an update
regarding construction cost inflation and budget increases which resulted in the inclusion of
$8,900,000 issuance of COs in the FY 2020-2021 budget. Staff has developed a plan to select
contractors and construct remaining segments from the 2012 Street Reconstruction Bond by
December 2022.
City Hall
215 E. McKinney Street
Denton, Texas
www.cityofdenton.com
2. Public Art Transportation
The City issued $400,000 in bonds for public art related to transportation projects. Of this amount,
$97,612 was spent to install medallions at the North Texas Boulevard underpass on I-35. The Public
Art Committee (PAC) initially proposed four medallions to be installed on the exterior corners of the
Loop 288/I-35 bridge. TXDOT final design at this location only provided sufficient surface mounting
for one medallion, leading the PAC to consider three new alternatives for the remaining funds. The
first option was the installation of two pedestal medallions at the Loop 288 intersection associated
with planned improvements of I-35 as presented at the Public Art Committee (PAC) at the February
7th, 2019 meeting. The second option was the potential co-location of several public art pieces with
entryway corridor signage that was presented at the PAC June 6th meeting. Ultimately, PAC selected
the third option, presented at the July 11, 2019 PAC meeting, to locate public art pieces in various
locations along transportation corridors. The three selected include; Carroll Blvd/Carroll Trail (3),
Dallas & Teasley median (1), and Eagle & Elm median (1). The procurement process for all three
sites are scheduled to being in 2021-2022. Staff presented the placement of sculptures on Carroll,
Bonnie Brae and Dallas & Teasley to the Bond Oversight Committee on May 6, 2021. The Bond
Oversight Committee recommended the funding be used for the proposed art along city corridors for
beautification efforts and to utilize the funding now instead of delaying until the I-35 improvements
are completed. Other funding will be sought for I-35 beautification efforts.
2014 Bond Election
1. Street Reconstruction
The original intent of this project was for the reconstruction of City streets with an OCI rating of 40
or less and to supplement the 2012 bond program. Beginning with FY 2014-15, the reconstruction
program was intended to ramp up to $6 million per fiscal year and continue through the 6-year
issuance period of this bond program. Staff believed that 227 additional street segments representing
approximately 74.79 lane miles could be completed within the 6 years of the program. To-date, 161
segments have been completed representing approximately 53.27 lane miles. Staff believes that 45
remaining segments will be completed by the fourth quarter of 2022. Seven segments from the 2014
bond are currently being programmed. The seven segments that are currently being programmed as
part of other projects include two on Mulberry, which will be folded into phases 3 and 4 of the PEC-
4 Project; two segments on Trinity Road, which will be coordinated with the TxDOT Trinity Bridge
Project; and three segments on Westgate Drive, which will be coordinated with the opening of Bronco
Way and the new Denton High School. In order to complete the 2014 Street reconstruction projects
as well as the connectors between the segments, an additional $7,097,263 was issued in 2018A
Certificates of Obligation (COs), which occurred in August 2018, plus $1,680,000 in General
Obligation Bonds (GOs) reallocated from the Ruddell Extension Project. Council was presented an
update regarding construction cost inflation and budget increases which resulted in the inclusion of
$8,900,000 issuance of COs in the FY 2020-2021 budget. Staff has developed a plan to select
contractors and construct remaining segments from the 2014 Street Reconstruction Bond by
December 2022.
2. Miscellaneous Traffic Signals
The original intent of this project was for the installation and/or replacement of traffic signal
infrastructure at various locations throughout the City. Below is a summary of remaining signals that
need to be installed, including the cost and the project status:
Signal Cost Status/ECD
Bell/McKinney $310,000 Working with design team to resolve
conflict with existing signage on SW corner
Bell/Hickory $310,000 Materials Ordered – Construction Scheduled
adjusted to Quarter 1 FY 21-22
Locust/McKinney $310,000 Construction started 7/28/21-late October
21’
Elm/McKinney $310,000 Construction started 7/28/21-late October
21’
Below is a list of completed traffic signal installations:
Signal Cost Status/ECD
Locust/Hickory $350,000 Completed -In Service Since 2018
Locust/Oak $340,000 Completed -In Service Since 2018
Elm/Hickory $250,000 Completed -In Service Since 2018
Elm/Oak $250,000 Completed -In Service Since 2018
Bell/Mingo $380,000 Completed -In Service January 25, 2021
Teasley/Dallas Dr.
(Design)
$70,000 Completed -In Service Since 2019
3. New Transportation Division Facility
This project was previously discussed with the 2014 Bond Oversight Committee on January 30, 2018
and staff was authorized to utilize these project funds ($1,500,000) on reconstructing/remodeling of a
City facility located at 651 Mayhill which will house the Transportation Division. The original
location of a new Transportation Division Facility was to be located on a property across from the
City’s Service Center (Ruddell Street). The cost and delay in the Ruddell Extension project, as well
as the availability of another City facility, have necessitated the alternative solution. With the delay
of the 651 Mayhill project, efforts are underway to incorporate the proposed Transportation Division
functions within the new Development Services Building. Additionally, the project would also
include the relocation of the existing Traffic Operation offices to the Service Center building, allowing
for the expanded traffic sign and signal division needs.
4. Rail Quiet Zone (McKinney Street to Prairie Street)
The original intent of this project was to install specific signalization and infrastructure at the Union
Pacific Railroad (UPRR) at-grade crossings located at McKinney Street, Hickory Street, Sycamore
Street, and Prairie Street to effectuate a railroad quiet zone. This project was originally scheduled to
be completed by July 2019, however that date has been pushed back due to significant staffing changes
with UPRR and City staff. Due to requested redesign work from UPRR, it appears that three of the
four intersections will be under construction by the end of calendar year 2021 with anticipated
completion by the end of Q2 of 2022.
5. Rail Quiet Zone (Union Pacific Railroad North)
The original intent of this project was to install specific signalization and infrastructure at the UPRR
grade crossings located at Fish Trap Road, Cooper Creek Road, Mockingbird Lane, Nottingham Road,
Pertain Street, Willis Street, and Frame Street to effectuate a railroad quiet zone. This project was
scheduled to be completed in FY 2018-19, and project completion was dependent on the Ruddell
Extension Project. Due to a delay in the Ruddell Extension Project, these quiet zone locations have
temporarily been put on hold. Staff recently initiated a new programmatic approach to all City planned
projects in the Texas Woman’s University (TWU) area, including the Ruddell Extension Project. On
March 23, 2021, the City Council approved a design contract with Bridgefarmer & Associates, Inc.
for several projects in the TWU area, including the quiet zones. The anticipated design completion
date is Q2 2022. The construction contract for required quiet zone improvements will be advertised
following right-of-way acquisition, confirmation of available funds for the current project estimate at
completion, and design completion.
6. Bonnie Brae Secondary Arterial from Vintage Blvd. to US-77 (Phases 1 through 6)
Phases 1 through 3 of the Bonnie Brae projects consist of the southern portions of Bonnie Brae from
I-35E to and including Vintage Boulevard. More specifically as follows: Phase 1 limits are from
Roselawn to just north of Vintage. This section provides a new alignment for the roadway and adds
two bridges. Phase 2 is the widening of Vintage Boulevard from 2 to 4 lanes from US 377 to I-35W
and includes the intersection of Bonnie Brae joining the limits of Phase 1. Phase 3 continues the new
alignment of Phase 1 from Roselawn to I-35E. These phases are funded by Regional Toll Revenue
funds out of the SH-121 subaccount along with a City of Denton match and are often referred to as
Bonnie Brae South we also have up to $5.75M in Denton County funds. These funds cannot be spent
north of I-35E on the northern phases of the Bonnie Brae project. Phase 1 is currently scheduled to
achieve substantial completion in Q3 2021. Phase 2 is also in the construction phase and is scheduled
to be completed in Q3 of calendar year 2021. Phase 3 will be in the bid and award phase by Q4 of
calendar year 2021.
Phase 4 of the Bonnie Brae project extends from I-35E north to Scripture Street. This phase has been
broken into two phases; Phase 4A, which is completed, consists of a Roundabout at the Scripture
Street and Bonnie Brae Intersection, and Phase 4B consists of the widening of Bonnie Brae from I-
35E to the Roundabout. The original intent of this project including phases 4A, 4B and 5 was for
final design, right-of-way (ROW) acquisition, and construction in the amount of
$9,500,000. However, the revised project estimate for phases 4A, 4B, and 5 is now at $28,000,000.
In May 2018, City Council approved the reallocation of both $2,479,903 from the FM 1830 and US
377 projects and $1,020,097 from Bonnie Brae Phase 6 into Bonnie Brae Phase 4 to close the funding
gap. Phase 4A/Roundabout is complete. Phase 4B is at 90% design and still needs right-of-way
(ROW) and utility relocations to accommodate the ultimate widening to a 4-lane divided roadway. In
the meantime, the City is evaluating the option of resurfacing and restriping along with working with
the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) to provide the additional funding
needed for ROW and Construction funding.
Phase 5 of the Bonnie Brae project extends from the roundabout to University Drive. Design of this
section is at 50% and will also require ROW and utility relocations to accommodate the ultimate
widening to a 4-lane divided roadway, as with phase 4B, with the possibility that the existing 4-lane
road will be resurfaced and restriped. The project is currently on hold to evaluate the design path, and
staff is working with NCTCOG to provide the additional funding needed for ROW and construction
past current funding levels from the 2019 Bond.
Phase 6 of the Bonnie Brae project extends from University Drive to US-77. The original intent of
this project was for design, ROW acquisition, and construction in the amount of $6,100,000 to extend
to Windsor Drive. However, the revised project limits have increased the cost to $31,100,000. A new
Denton High School will be built north of Windsor Drive, on the west side of Bonnie Brae Street,
with an estimated opening date of Q2 of calendar year 2023. Staff intends to coordinate the
construction from Windsor to US-77 with the opening of the high school. Design is currently at 100%
completion, and we have received environmental clearance from TxDOT. Funding reallocation was
approved to move $620,000 from Wheeler Ridge, and $1,786,244 from Bonnie Brae Phase 4 for
design into Phase 6. NCTCOG has approved $11,060,800 in federal funding to be applied to the
portion of the project extending from Windsor to US-77. Phase 6 is also funded from the 2019 Bond.
7. Miscellaneous Sidewalks
The original intent of this project was for the design and construction of various sidewalk projects
within the City over the 6-year program period. Staff is finalizing a master sidewalk prioritization
work plan in an effort to provide for the systematic design and installation of sidewalk infrastructure
responsibly with an emphasis on priority areas. The workplan includes segments currently designed,
that are scheduled for construction. Since January of 2021, over 3,000 linear feet of sidewalk has been
installed along various streets with another 5,035 linear feet anticipated to be complete by the end of
December. The new work plan will be presented to the Committee on Persons with Disabilities, the
Traffic Safety Commission and the Mobility Committee for feedback once it is finalized. The
sidewalk work plan is currently being reviewed by the recently hired Senior Planner – Bicycle,
Pedestrian and ADA Coordinator. Staff is also in the process of closing out existing Traffic funding
accounts with the plan of reallocating existing sidewalk funds to ensure more segments are completed
annually.
8. Hickory Creek Road - FM 2181 to Riverpass (Hickory Creek Phase 2/West)
The original intent of this project was to expand the roadway to a four-lane divided thoroughfare from
Teasley to Riverpass. A signal at Montecito and Hickory Creek has been added to the original scope,
increasing the revised project cost to $7,500,000. Traffic is providing $350,000 for the signal. In
August 2018, City Council approved the reallocation of $2,470,306 from the Ruddell Extension at
Mingo Project to the Hickory Creek West Project in order to complete the original scope. This project
went to bid in September of 2018.
On February 12, 2019, the City Council approved the use of $1,800,000 million in Roadway Impact
Fees to allow for the possible reallocation of the same amount in general obligation bonds to the new
Hickory Creek (FM 2181/Teasley to Riverpass) project. The project is currently estimated to achieve
substantial completion by early calendar year 2022. The project schedule has been impacted by delays
and redesigns associated with geotechnical design, franchise utility relocations, value engineering,
and development project coordination.
9. Morse Street Expansion to Full Collector Capacity (Loop 288 to Mayhill)
The original intent of this project was for design, right-of-way acquisition, and construction in the
amount of $2,900,000 to fully convert this roadway to a four-lane divided secondary arterial street,
including sidewalks, bike lanes, street lighting and water utility improvements from Loop 288 to
Mayhill. This original plan would widen the current three-lane segment between Kimberly and
Mayhill to a four-lane divided roadway, matching the existing segment between Kimberly and Loop
288. In May 2018, Council approved the transfer of $250,000 from FM 1830 and US 377 projects
and $220,000 in aggregate of other capital improvement projects into the Morse Street Expansion
project, raising the Morse Street Expansion funding total to $3,370,000.
Subsequently, the scope of the project changed and will now maintain the existing street width along
Morse Street between Kimberly Drive and Mayhill Road. The intent is to reduce/reconstruct the
existing four-lane segment to a three-lane roadway between Loop 288 and Kimberly Drive. In 2020,
$2,600,000 was moved from this project to the Hickory Street from Welch to Carrol project. Staff
has considered re-scoping efforts and has included a funding request in the Capital Improvement Plan
to provide adequate funds to complete the project.
10. Ruddell Extension to Mingo Road
The original intent of this project was for design, ROW acquisition, and construction in the amount
of $5,780,000 to align this roadway across the UPRR tracks and provide an improved railroad crossing
at Mingo. The revised project cost as originally scoped is $8,602,000. This project was placed on
hold for a redesign using $1,629,694 of funding. The remaining funds were reallocated $4,150,306
to: (1) the Hickory Creek Road West project in the amount of $2,470,306 and (2) $1,680,000 on 2014
street reconstruction projects.
Staff recently initiated a new programmatic approach to all City planned projects in the Texas
Woman’s University (TWU) area, including the Ruddell Extension Project. On March 23, 2021, the
City Council approved a design contract with Bridgefarmer & Associates, Inc. for several projects in
the TWU area, including 30% design for Ruddell widening from US 380 to Mingo. The anticipated
completion date of the 30% design contract is Q4 of calendar year 2021. Staff will include a request
to fund the full design and construction of the Ruddell Extension to Mingo in the upcoming capital
improvement plan and anticipates potentially bundling several of the TWU area projects in a joint
solicitation to have constructed using the Construction Manager at Risk project delivery method.
11. Wheeler Ridge Connection to FM 2181 at Jordan Lane.
The original intent of this project was to provide funds in the amount of $620,000 for an alternative
point for access into Wheeler Ridge subdivision for residents and emergency service vehicles from
Saddle Drive to Jordan Lane and ultimately to FM 2181. This project was scheduled to begin
construction in March 2019 and completed in mid-2020. However, after several meetings with the
Fire Department this project has been deemed no longer necessary for public safety as there are now
alternative routes into the neighborhood. The funding reallocation was approved. COMPLETED
12. Miscellaneous Roadways
The original intent of this project was for design and construction of various roadway improvements
within the City over the course of the 6-year program period. To date, the City has issued $1,000,000
in GO bonds for this purpose. Staff anticipates the issuance of $500,000 in each of the remaining two
years of the bond program and is assessing existing funding needs of active projects for programming.
Staff has allocated $600,000 to the Hickory Creek Road project from 2181 to 2499 (East). The cost
of this project is estimated at $3,000,000 with additional funding ($2,400,000) coming from TxDOT
as part of a Local Project Advance Funding Agreement (LPAFA).
13. Public Art for Street Improvements
The 2014 bond program included $30,000 for public art associated with transportation projects. These
funds were included in the FY 2019-20 bond issuance. Locations for sculptures have been selected by
the PAC to include Carroll Blvd. (3), Dallas & Teasley median (1) and Eagle & Elm median (1). Staff
is preparing an RFP for the design and installation of these sculptures with possibly selection by the
end of the calendar year.
14. Fire Station #4 Remodel/Rebuild (Sherman Drive)
On February 23, 2017, the 2014 Bond Oversight Committee approved the reallocation of $1,100,000
in GO bonds from the Fire Station #3 project. The original cost of the Fire Station #4 project was
$5,020,000 and the revised final cost was $6,097,550. Remaining money of $22,540 was moved to
the new Fire Station #3 project. This project has been completed and the Grand Opening was held on
June 22, 2018. COMPLETED.
15. Fire Station #3 Demolition/Rebuild (McCormick)
On February 23, 2017, the 2014 Bond Oversight Committee approved the reallocation of $1,272,000
from this project to bridge the funding gap for Fire Station #4 and the Fire Burn Tower project. At
that time, staff informed the Committee that a proposal would be submitted to the City Council to
fund any gap in the Fire Station #3 project with Certificates of Obligation (COs). The City Council
approved the issuance of COs in May 2018 to fund the remaining $1,685,000. Bonds have been issued
and the project is fully funded. Based on the latest engineer’s estimate, which came in extremely high,
this project will be bid with alternatives to bring costs down if needed. The project was bid and
awarded to O’Haver Contractors for a contract amount of $6,298,000. The Fire Station #3 project
began May 2019 and was originally scheduled for completion in December 2020. Staff occupied the
building February 12, 2021. Demolition of the old Fire Station #3 has been completed April 2021.
COMPLETED.
16. Fire Burn Tower
On February 23, 2017, the 2014 Bond Oversight Committee approved the reallocation of $172,000 in
GO bonds from the Fire Station #3 project. The original cost of this project was funded by Certificates
of Obligation in the amount of $2,721,870 but the revised cost was $2,893,870 which required the
reallocation of GOs for completion. The final cost of the project was $2,848,182. Remaining money
of $45,687 was moved to the new Fire Station #3 project. COMPLETED.
17. Relocation of Communications Center & Criminal Investigations Bureau
The original intent of this project was the remodeling of 6,000 square feet of existing office space and
the finish out of 4,500 square feet of unfinished space at the Hickory Street location to accommodate
growth in service demands. On February 20, 2019, the Committee approved the reallocation of
$1,600,000 for design and other preliminary costs related to the Police Station Renovation project
included in the Proposed 2019 Bond Election. The remaining funding of $10,368 was moved to the
Police Facilities Project (Design). REALLOCATED
18. Police Firing Range with Ten Foot Berm Addition
The original intent of this project was for safety and security enhancements, including improvements
to the entrance gate, landscaping, security, drainage, parking, berm height, and the construction of a
permanent range house. The original cost of the project was $485,000 but this has been revised to
$1,105,000. This additional $620,000 was sold in the 2018A Certificates of Obligation (COs) issuance
which occurred in August 2018. The project is temporarily on hold for review by the new Chief of
Police, Chief Dixon. Staff is requesting to reallocate $299,061 of GOs to the proposed police facilities.
On February 20, 2019, the Committee approved the reallocation of the remaining GOs to the proposed
police facilities project. REALLOCATED.
19. Police Facilities Project (Design)
This project is in the design development phase. The City Hall East Police Department remodel and
new sub-station was awarded through the RFQ process for $3,085,830 to Brandsetter Carroll
Architects. COMPLETED
20. Public Art for Public Safety
The 2014 bond program included $325,000 for public art related to public safety projects. These bonds
have been issued, and to date, $253,401 have been spent on the Bell Tower project at the Central Fire
Station and $9,300 has been spent for engineering services related to the mounting of two brick-art
panels at the Police Station and $28,330.61 has been encumbered. The current remaining balance for
Public Safety art is $62,299. City Council approved the contract for the sculpture on August 24, 2021.
21. Eagle Drive Drainage Improvements Phase 2
The original intent of this project was for the drainage box and channel improvements from east of
Elm Street to Eagle drive in the amount of $2,097,000. Construction began in August 2018 and is
now complete. The revised project cost came to $2,721,627 and project construction was completed
in October 2019. COMPLETED
22. PEC-4 Drainage Improvements Phase 2 – West of Locust to Prairie
The original intent of this project was for the design and construction of drainage improvements from
East of Locust Street to Prairie Street along the alignment of PEC-4. This project began construction
in July 2019 and is currently on schedule with an estimated completion by the end of Q3 of calendar
year 2021.
23. Downtown Drainage Projects
These projects are comprised of the (a) Hickory Street Drainage & Trunk Line System ($600,000),
(b) South Bell Drainage System ($806,000), and (c)(3) Oak Street Drainage projects (does not include
GO funding). These projects have been broken up into two phases. Phase 1 is the Oak Street Drainage
and half of Hickory Street trunk line from McKinney to Hickory (this phase of the project is also
referred to as Downtown Storm Sewer Phase 1). Phase 2 is the South Bell Drainage and second half
of Hickory Street trunk line from Hickory to Sycamore (this phase of the project is also referred to as
Downtown Storm Sewer Phase 2). The total revised project cost for both phases is $3,135,000. Phase
1 is currently funded. Staff is seeking additional funding for Phase 2. Construction for Phase 1 began
in December 20201 and is on schedule for completion in Q4 of calendar year 2021.
24. Magnolia Street Drainage Phase 2 (Hinkle Project)
The original intent of this project was for the construction of a separate storm drain system to capture,
contain, and convey the runoff from the upper portion of the watershed to the outfall at Pecan Creek,
south of Good Samaritan Village. This project would further alleviate flooding in the area and enable
the reconstruction of Hinkle Drive. The original cost for this project was $2,557,000.
The construction contract for this project was awarded on February 5, 2019, and construction was
completed by May 2020. A scope change occurred that entailed the addition of a roundabout at Hinkle
and Mimosa along with additional curb installation and rock excavation that increased costs to
$7,550,000. In May of 2018, City Council approved the use of drainage channel rehab funds in the
amount of $1,737,836 to aid in bridging the funding gap. This project was substantially completed in
2020 and reported as complete at the November 5, 2020 Bond Oversight Committee meeting.
Retainage has been released for this project, and as of Q3 2021, this project is completed. The Streets
Division of the Public Works Department is coordinating an adjacent project to complete a bicycle
path and visibility enhancements to improve safety of the roundabout. COMPLETED
25. Playground Replacements
The original intent of this project was to fund the replacement of seven play structures at Milam, Nette
Shultz, Carl Young, Fred Moore, Denia, McKenna, and Evers Parks to meet current Consumer
Product Safety Commission playground standards.
Parks and Recreation received approval to transfer a portion of the balance of funding, approximately
$77,000, allocated for McKenna Park playground to be redirected to Joe Skiles Park Playground.
McKenna Park has over $1,200,000 in 915/916 funding that can only be used in an approximate 1-
mile radius of various developments around the park. This funding was used for the purchase and
installation of the McKenna Park playground instead of the bond funding.
• Evers Park Playground- Completed
• Milam Park Playground- Completed
• Fred Moore Park Playground- Completed
• Denia Park Playground- Completed
• Carl Young Park Playground- Completed
• Nette Shultz Park Playground- Completed
• McKenna Park Playground- Completed
Additional playground completed
• Joe Skiles Park Playground Completed
After completion of the listed playgrounds, it is anticipated that $177,955 would remain for
reallocation to another project. Staff requested $150,000 of this available funding to be moved to the
South Lakes Park Improvement project to cover the shortfall expected for the new tennis courts and
lighting. Staff requested the remaining $27,955 to be moved to the new North Lakes Tennis Center
project and was approved by the Bond Oversight Committee on February 4, 2021. COMPLETED.
26. Park Improvements
The original intent of this project was to improve several parks, including the addition of two lighted
tennis courts at South Lakes Park and improvements at Lake Forest Park. Funding was obtained in
May 2018 for a total of $300,000. The pavilion and basketball court projects at Lake Forest and Milam
Parks were completed through an endowment from a private foundation therefore the $150,000
identified for Lake Forest improvements can be used elsewhere.
The South Lakes Park tennis court and lighting project was originally funded for $150,000. Estimated
costs of construction as of October 2018 were $250,000. Staff received approval to reallocate the Lake
Forest pavilion funding of $150,000 to eliminate the funding gap to build the two new lighted tennis
courts and add lighting to the existing courts as a bid alternate. This will expand playability of the
courts as well as provide cooler times for patrons to utilize the facility.
A public meeting for the park was held in July 2019 to gather input on various park projects and for
the master plan. Design for South Lakes Park tennis courts was thought to be complete, but additional
engineering was required. Adams Engineering has been hired to complete the design and provide
oversight during construction. Staff received approval to use of $150,000 remaining in the playground
project to cover this funding gap and was approved by the BOC. Lowest bid received was $410,770
for the two new courts with lights.
Per the Procurement Timeline Tool, below are the following dates for the project to proceed.
1. Start bid solicitation May 5, 2021
2. Bid Opening August 10, 2021
3. Council Approval September, 2021
4. Construction NTP 30 days after Council approval
5. Substantial Completion Summer 2022
6. Final Completion Summer 2022
27. Property Acquisition (for Parks & Libraries)
The original intent of this project was to fund the purchase of new parkland in the City. PARD staff
has identified potential parcels of interest. In June 2020, the funding of $1,005,000 was again available
to be utilized for purchase of land. Staff presented land option to City Council in August 2020 and
February 2, 2021. A total of (3-4) parcels have been identified as potential locations for a park and
library. One location was determined to be unavailable for acquisition and the other three are currently
being negotiated for acquisition by Real Estate.
28. Southwest Park Master Plan & Design
The original intent of this project was for master planning and design services necessary for the
development of the park, including survey, platting, and environmental assessments. This information
would then become part of the master plan for the development of the park which eventually could
include a recreation center, athletic facilities, aquatic components, and trails. A survey of the land was
completed in the summer of 2019 in preparation for the project.
Staff has completed a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and conducted interviews in January 2020 to
hire a consultant. COVID-19 caused a delay in this project. The contract was approved by City
Council in June 2020 and a kick-off meeting was conducted on July 14, 2020. In addition, a citizen
focus group was created, and several public meetings have been held to gather feedback and
information from the community.
Parks and Recreation received approval from the committee to use $175,000 to assist in hiring
consultants to complete the City-wide PARD master plan. Internal staff that was working on the
project left the organization in February, then COVID-19 caused a pause in the process. Due to the
lack of staff and workload, Parks and Recreation hired Halff Associates to help the department
complete the plan. The Parks, Recreation and Trails System Master Plan will be completed at the end
of the calendar year.
It is anticipated this project will have a remaining balance of $856,161 after completion. Staff
requested moving this balance to the North Lakes Tennis Center project to bridge the anticipated
funding gap and was approved by the Bond Oversight Committee on February 4, 2021.
A concept plan for Southwest Park has been completed and proposed to the focus group and Parks,
Recreation and Beautification Board for feedback. Staff is planning on presenting to City Council for
feedback on October 4, 2021. Once this feedback is attained, staff will make any needed adjustments
and process this through for final review and approval with the focus group, Parks, Recreation and
Beautification Board and City Council.
29. Sprayground
The original intent of this project was to fund the construction of a small/medium splash park. The
park would contain spray jets and water features such as water cannons and dumping buckets. The
original cost for this project was $200,000 but was revised to $395,515. The funding gap was bridged
with Park Development funds in the amount of $195,515. The project has been completed and was
dedicated on May 12, 2018. The final cost of the project was $381,488, leaving $14,026 in available
funding, of which $13,629 was bond funded and $397 was from Park Development funds.
Staff received approval to reallocate the remaining bond funds of $13,629 toward the purchase of
restrooms at Carl Young Park, which was completed this Summer. The Carl Young Park restroom
facility was completed under budget and the reallocation was not needed for the project. In November
2020, the Bond Oversight Committee approved reallocation of the remaining $13,629 to the North
Lakes Tennis Center project. COMPLETED
30. Trail System Expansion & Addition
The original intent of this project was to fund the expansion of the off-road pedestrian trail network,
allowing citizens access to parks and recreation centers and providing safe routes for work, school
and shopping centers. The advanced trail project is the Northwest Trail Extension off Highway 77
and Nacosia which connects the Evers Trail to North Lakes Park. This project was completed in 2017.
In the spring of 2021, TXDOT sent the city a communication notifying the city that a balance was
identified of $42,940. Staff is currently identifying funding to pay this balance. COMPLETED
31. Tennis Center Remodel & Expansion
The original intent of this project was to fund the relocation and expansion of the Goldfield Tennis
Center to include 12 tennis courts, ADA accessibility improvements, and a new pro shop. The revised
budget for this project is $3,787,829 which includes $3,445,000 from the 2014 bond program,
$250,000 from the 2005 bond program, and $14,197 in other (non-bond) funding. Additionally, in
November 2020 the Bond Oversight Committee approved reallocation of $13,629 from the completed
Sprayground project and $65,000 from the completed Vela Athletic Complex project.
Staff submitted a USTA grant totaling $100,000 to assist in the construction. The City of Denton was
awarded $30,000 from USTA and another $10,000 from USTA Texas. These grant funds are not
currently listed as part of the project budget but will be added once received.
The planning and design process began in June 2018. Parks and Recreation staff created a concept
design and estimated costs. The Parks, Recreation and Beautification Board and City Council were
briefed in August 2018 on the draft design. A public meeting was held on August 9, 2018 along with
numerous focus group meetings that included, USTA, UNT, Denton Tennis Association, local tennis
professionals, and pickle ball participants. The Parks, Recreation and Beautification Board
recommended the design to City Council on February 4, 2019. City Council approved the concept
design and approved a design contract on May 7, 2019. Construction on the pro shop was projected
to be completed in January 2021 but was substantially completed in October 2020.
Staff requested remaining funds from the Southwest Park Master Plan project of $856,161 and a
portion of the remaining funds from the Playground project, $27,955, to be allocated to the North
Lakes Tennis Center project and was approved by the Bond Oversight Committee on February 4,
2021.
Per the Procurement Timeline Tool, below are the following dates for the project to proceed.
1. Start bid solicitation July 30, 2021
2. Bid Opening August 31 , 2021
3. Council Approval October, 2021
4. Construction NTP 30 days after Council approval
5. Substantial Completion Winter 2022
6. Final Completion Winter 2022
32. Water Works Park Additions (Wave Pool/Concession Stand)
The original intent of this project was for the construction of a new wave pool, permanent concession
facilities, and additional shade areas. The original cost for this project was $2,443,000 but this was
revised to $2,800,094. The funding gap for this project was primarily funded with $300,000 from the
Parks Gas Well fund. The Wave Pool project opened in the summer of 2017. The concession stand
was completed and open for operations along with the entire Water Works Park in May 2018. An
additional $35,000 was added to the project for a wave pool study. The warranty has been extended
by the contractor for two years and some additional work was completed in early 2020. Costs have
been finalized at $2,796,476. COMPLETED
33. Vela Soccer Complex Phase II Construction
The original intent of this project was to complete Phase II construction of the Vela Athletic Complex
at North Lakes Park, including a permanent concession area; year-round restroom facilities; a large
pavilion to accommodate tournaments; connecting sidewalks; and a playground structure. The
original project cost estimate was $1,333,000. City Council approved the complete construction of
the project in early May 2018 for a total project cost of $6,363,532. Total project costs include site
development expenditures that were incurred prior to construction. Construction began May 21, 2018
and was completed in May 2019. An official dedication occurred on May 26, 2019. A grand opening
was held on August 31, 2019.
While the overall project is completed, some signage is being planned in cooperation with the Vela
family and LULAC. Two plaques will be placed on an interior wall and an arch at the entrance was
recently installed to welcome participants to G Roland Vela Athletic Complex.
Parks and Recreation has also been working with the Public Art Committee on the procurement of a
sculpture within the athletic complex. Initially, $35,000 was allocated from HOT and Bond funds.
Additional funding was required for the desired theme and sculpture. Staff received approval from the
Bond Oversight Committee meeting to use $65,000 from the Vela construction project towards this
piece of art. Additionally, a $1,000 donation was received from the Denton Parks Foundation to add
to the project budget. City Council approved the concept for a total of $101,000, including $95,000
for the project and $6,000 in contingency. It is anticipated that the sculpture will be installed in the
Summer of 2021.
After completion of the signage, archway, and sculpture it is estimated the balance of bond funding
remaining in this project will be approximately $65,000. In November 2020 the Bond Oversight
Committee approved the reallocation of these funds to the North Lakes Tennis Center project.
Sculpture is under construction and will be installed in late Summer 2021. COMPLETED
34. Emergency Action Plan – Lake Forest Dam
The outcome of the engineering plan will cover construction documents, cost estimates of
construction, financial considerations, project scheduling, 404 permitting (permit through EPA for
discharge of dredged material), water rights through TCEQ, dam breach mapping, and an Emergency
Action Plan (EAP), dam rehabilitation design, dredging plan, operations and maintenance plan, and
construction administration through construction phase.
This project will be funded with $250,639 in General Obligation (GO) Bonds reallocated from the
Clear Creek Heritage Center project and $95,361 in aggregate savings from other parks capital
improvement projects in the amount of $448,902. Assessments and construction drawings have been
completed and funding to the total of $3,000,000 from the FY19-20 budget has been allocated for
construction. The project was bid in November 2020. Bids came back higher than expected and staff
identified an additional $300,327 to bridge the funding gap. Council approved the project and
construction began in April 2021. The contractor is currently moving sediment from the pond. The
project will be delayed due to the amount of rain received in the spring.
35. Public Art for Parks
The 2014 bond program included $180,000 for public art related to public parks projects. The City
has issued $180,000 in bonds for these projects, and to date, $100,000 has been spent on two sculpture
projects at City Hall (Morales) and the Civic Center (Surls). The Public Art Committee (PAC) voted
March 7, 2019 to proceed with a $35,000 public art project at North Lakes Dog Park comprised of
$20,000 in bond funds and $15,000 from the committee’s 2019 Hotel Occupancy Tax budget.
Similarly, the committee voted April 4th, 2019 to proceed with a $35,000 public art project at the Vela
Soccer fields, comprised of $20,000 in bond funds and $15,000 from the committee’s 2019 Hotel
Occupancy Tax budget. Additional funding of $65,000 was allocated from the Vela Athletic Complex
construction account to assist with the procurement of the sculpture.
The committee determined a site for placing public art at the North Lakes Tennis Center but delayed
assigning a budget and funding source(s) until the tennis court design is completed. The PAC has
selected the artist for Vela, received City Council approval, and this project is now in fabrication. The
original proposed art for the North Lakes Dog Park project was rejected by the subcommittee. Staff
rebid the project, bids were received, and a concept was approved by the PAC on April 16, 2021. The
concept and contract were be presented and approved by City Council in May 2021.
Planned dedications of sculptures are as follows:
“Fetch”, North Lakes Dog Park – Dedication September 10, 2021
“Vela’s Trophy”, Vela Athletic Complex - Dedication September 18, 2021
2019 Bond Election:
1. Bonnie Brae (Phases V, VI, VII)
The 2019 Bond Program provides funding for Phases V, VI, and VII to widen approximately three
miles of Bonnie Brae Street from Scripture Street to Loop 288 and build a continuous four lane divided
roadway along this route. Phase VI is currently at 100% design with right-of-way acquisition
underway and construction projected to start later this year. Staff is coordinating closely with the
Denton Independent School District with a goal to have Phase VI substantially complete in Q2 of
2023, with staff aiming to coordinate lane openings with the opening of the new Denton High School.
Phase V and VII both need to be designed and additional project funding needs to be identified for
completion, with Phase VII to be designed and constructed by the Texas Department of Transportation
(TxDOT).
2. Hickory Creek (Phase 3)
The 2019 Bond Program provides funding for the widening of approximately one mile of Hickory
Creek Road from Riverpass Drive to FM 1830 (Country Club Road) to a four-lane divided roadway
including a bridge designed to accommodate expansion at some time in the future as demand
increases. This project is often referred to as Hickory Creek Phase 3. This project is currently at 90%
design and right of way acquisition is actively underway. Project construction is anticipated to start
by Q2 of calendar year 2022 and is projected to be complete by Q2 of 2024.
3. Street Rehabilitation Program
The 2019 Bond Program provides funding for the design and reconstruction of aging street
infrastructure throughout the City. In addition to the street itself, curb and gutters, sidewalks, traffic
signals, turn lanes, medians, and other components may be included in a street rehabilitation project.
Programming for these streets and the associated impacted infrastructure is ongoing. Construction
solicitations for the first two bid packages of the 2019 Street Rehabilitation Bond were advertised on
January 11, 2021, a contractor has since been selected and construction for the first bid package of the
2019 Street Rehabilitation Bond initiated the week of July 14, 2021, with scheduled completion in Q4
of 2021. Construction for the second bid package of the 2019 Street Rehabilitation Bond initiated on
July 19, 2021, with scheduled completion in early Q1 of 2022.
On June 22, 2021, the City Council approved a design amendment with Freese and Nichols, Inc. (FNI)
to complete the design of the first phase of the Southeast Denton Street Reconstruction Project, which
will reconstruct 22 street segments approved as part of the 2019 Street Reconstruction Bond. Staff
anticipates the first phase of the Southeast Denton Street Reconstruction Project will begin
construction in Q2 of 2022. A second bid package utilizing the Construction Manager at Risk
methodology will complete the remaining 51 street segments in the Southeast Denton neighborhood.
Staff anticipates that the new Construction Manager and design firm will be selected for the second
phase of the Southeast Denton Street Reconstruction Project by November 2021. The design
amendment approved on June 22 with FNI also authorized eighteen months of Program Management
services for the 2019 Street Reconstruction Bond. Program Management services provided by FNI
include development of a comprehensive sequencing plan for all 2019 Street Reconstruction Bond
segments, the development of dashboards and other key reporting features that can be shared
internally and with the public regarding the status of project construction, preparation of cash flow
models and individual project estimates, project execution process tracking, and providing general
project implementation oversight. Staff and FNI currently anticipates completing all street
reconstruction segments included in the 2019 Bond by the close of calendar year 2026.
4. Sidewalks
Sidewalk infrastructure will be installed according to the City's sidewalk prioritization workplan. The
plan seeks to close existing sidewalk gaps and install new sidewalks within one-quarter mile of
schools, universities, parks/greenbelts, and public transportation within the City of Denton. A single
project manager has been assigned for the full implementation of the sidewalk prioritization workplan,
with focus on ensuring the timely completion of design and construction of segments utilizing the $12
million in sidewalk funding included in the 2019 bond and will help coordinate sidewalk projects with
roadway reconstruction and other infrastructure investments. In January 2021, staff received approval
from the City Council for a $2.5 million application to the Denton County Transportation Authority
(DCTA) for funding through the Transportation Reinvestment Program. DCTA confirmed the
application was successful in June 2021 and the funding will be used to complete the Safe Routes to
School sidewalk projects at Ginnings, Alexander, Nette Schultz, and Pecan Creek Elementary Schools
and augment funding for segments currently listed on the sidewalk work plan.
The new sidewalk work plan will be presented to the Committee on Persons with Disabilities, the
Traffic Safety Commission and the Mobility Committee for by the end of calendar year 2021. The
draft sidewalk work plan has also been used to inform the capital improvement plan for the upcoming
fiscal year.
5. Street Lighting
The 2019 Bond Program provides funding for the design and construction of streetlights along US-
380 (University Drive) between I-35 and Mayhill Road and where street lights were not added by
TxDOT during construction of its US-380 roadway project. This area carries a significant amount of
pedestrian, and vehicular traffic, and a portion of this segment is adjacent to Texas Woman’s
University. Staff recently initiated this project with DME and anticipates selecting a design firm once
the first bond issuance for this project becomes available in FY 2023-2024.
6. Ryan Road
The 2019 Bond Program will provide funding for the widening of approximately two miles of Ryan
Road, from Teasley Lane to Country Club Road, from a two-lane road to a three-lane road. On
February 23, 2021, the City Council approved a 30% design contract with Kimley Horn for this
project. The 30% design should be completed in Q3 of 2021. In order to ensure east/west access to
FM 1830 as Hickory Creek Road Phase 3 is under construction (extents for Hickory Creek Road Phase
3 are from Riverpass Drive to FM 1830), final design and construction of the project will be
coordinated so that construction will not begin on Ryan Road until construction of Hickory Creek
Road Phase 3 is completed. Staff currently projects a Q2 2024 completion date for Hickory Creek
Road Phase 3. Staff anticipates Ryan Road will take approximately one year to construct, but
construction will need to be coordinated to ensure access to Ryan Elementary. Staff tentatively
projects a Q3 2025 completion date for Ryan Road to account for project coordination with school
traffic.
7. Police Renovation Project
The 2019 Bond Program provides funding for the renovation of the existing Police Headquarters at
City Hall East (601 E. Hickory St.).
The City Hall East building was originally constructed in 1947 and expanded in 1965. The building
was donated to the City of Denton in 1990 and was renovated in 1992-1994 for city operations. In
2013, unfinished space was converted to create the Denton Public Safety Training Facility.
The Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) firm, Byrne Construction, started pre-construction
services earlier this year, after being awarded through a competitive Request for Qualifications &
Request for Proposal process.
The CMAR has solicit subcontractor bids from the 100% Construction Documents, which has been
received with the full participation and oversight by City and Peak Program Value (PPV). After a bid
analysis and award process run by the CMAR, and vetted by the City staff and PPV, the CMAR will
prepare a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) Amendment for City Council consideration. Council
approved the GMP on December 1, 2020. The project is starting construction in Q1 of 2021, and all
three facilities will be operational by Q2 of 2022.
The current budget consists of the issued GO/CO in the amount of $47M. Approximately $40M has
been spent or encumbered to date.
8. Police Substation Range
The 2019 Bond Program provides funding for the construction of a new Police Substation adjacent
to the existing Fire Station 7 on Vintage Boulevard. The substation is intended to house patrol,
neighborhood services, traffic enforcement, criminal investigation, and other operations and staff and
administrative support. See section 7 for schedule and budget update.
9. Police Indoor Firing Range
The 2019 Bond Program provides funding for the construction of a new Police Indoor Firing Range
adjacent to existing Fire Station 7 and the proposed Police Substation on Vintage Boulevard. See
section 7 for schedule and budget update.
Exhibits
1. Agenda Information Sheet
2. Summary of GO Funded Projects
3. Parks Bond Program Presentation
4. Capital Projects Bond Program Presentation
5. Facilities Bond Program Presentation
6. Bond Issuance Timeline
Prepared By: Respectfully Submitted:
Sunita Gautam Cassey Ogden
Financial Analyst Director of Finance