$7.8 million estimate for garage

Estimates from Eissmann-Pence Architecture/Landscape put the cost for the Minden garage at more than $7.8 million, well over the the previous $5.5 million estimate.

"Right now, that's their best guess," said County Manager Dan Holler. "This is a phased project. Once the design is completed, we'll have a ballpark figure. Then we can start the value engineering, bringing the project in line with the budget.

"I was hoping to come in with a total to $5.5 to $6 million, but with projected cost increases it's tough," he said.

County commissioners ordered staff to move ahead with plans for the project in July.

Construction costs, like concrete and steel, are escalating. Acquiring the funding to complete the project now rather than spending more to finish it later is one option commissioners could face, Holler said.

"The cheapest alternative would most likely be completing the project now," he said. "But we could do that in the future. We always have those options."

Commissioners could award a $562,000 contract to Eissmann-Pence Architecture Ltd. to design the garage in downtown Minden Thursday.

Located behind the Minden Inn on the corner of Fourth Street and Mono Avenue, the structure will provide 209 parking spaces for Douglas County employees and the public, as well as overflow parking for downtown Minden businesses and special events at Minden Park.

The $7.8 million estimate includes a three-and-a-half-story structure, commercial space, and a facade along Esmeralda, Third and Mono streets.

County officials want the new building to add to the historical look, feel and character of downtown Minden, but construction prices could short-circuit some of those plans. The project will be financed through revenue-supported bonds totalling about $6 million, Holler said.

According to a schedule created by Eissmann-Pence, the project could start as early as Oct. 15. The contract would be awarded in August of 2007 and the 21-month project completed by July of 2008.

In other business:

n Recommendations for management of a 60-mile stretch of the East Carson River from its headwaters in the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness to Ruhenstroth Dam south of Gardnerville will be presented by the United States Forest Service.

n Commissioners could approve the purchase of 5.42 acres at 456 Genoa Lane for $1.02 million, the property to be set aside for open space, flood plain preservation and future public access.

State Question 1 funding has awarded 75 percent of the property cost. The remaining 25 percent will be funded from a seller contribution of $80,000 and $175,000 from Park Residential Construction Tax funds.

n Susie Vasquez can be reached at svasquez@recordcourier.com or 782-5121, ext. 211.