Background/Discussion
The Entertainment District located between 23rd Avenue and I-80/29, and from 24th Street to 35th Street is a premier destination location within the City of Council Bluffs. The area includes the Mid-America Center, Horseshoe Casino, Bass Pro Shop store, and several hotels and restaurants. The recent construction of the Field House, Iowa West Sports Plex, and another hotel are adding to the amenities offered in the area.
The parking lots that surround the Mid-America Center are owned by the City. The paving has degraded to the point where maintenance is difficult and there are safety concerns because of the poor condition.
A study was performed in 2011 and updated in 2015 which recommended the replacement of the parking lots. The conceptual plan suggested that the work could be performed in multiple phases over a few years. Proceeding with replacement is now necessary, and a total of five phases have been programmed in the CIP.
Phase 1 included the lot south of the convention center and a portion of the west lot. Phase 2 included the lot just west of the south lot near the convention center.
Phase 3 includes finishing the west lot and a portion of the lot north of the west lot (see-attached map).
This project was included in the FY22 CIP with a budget of $350,000 from General Fund-Gaming and 650,000 in GO Bond funding.
The Engineer was selected based on their previous involvement with the project site and their successful project history. HGM helped to develop the overall improvement plan and phasing strategy for the area, and it is fully expected that the knowledge already gained during Phase 1 and Phase 2 will benefit the current project. It is appropriate for HGM to continue their role as project engineer.