SPRINGFIELD – On Feb. 2, the Springfield City Council adopted an alternate contracting method for repairs of the historic Springfield Depot and railcar, advancing the renovation process on track.
At the Jan. 12 work session, the council provided direction to proceed with a design-build contracting method for deferred maintenance at the depot. A public hearing was needed for the project to proceed to a request for proposals (RFP) for the council to award and approve.
A design-build contract allows the city to use a single contract for both the design firm and the construction contractor. This method simplifies project delivery by eliminating the need for separate contracts.
According to city documents, “Timeliness is a key consideration for delivery of this project because all repairs are proposed to occur while the current tenant remains on-site.”
Renovations are needed for the siding, deck, roof, railing, gutters, and HVAC system. The railcar outside the depot building also needs repairs to its doors and windows.
The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was constructed by the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1891. Now, the depot is home to the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce and the visitor’s information center.
When the floor opened for public comments, six folks encouraged moving the deferred maintenance project forward.
Community member Gary Schwieger announced to the council that the Chamber allows The Willamette Cascade Model Railroad Club, a group of about 73 people, to use the freight room at the depot for its monthly meetings.
“By using an alternative bidding approach, special care can be taken in the deferred maintenance of the structure and railcar. I agree with the council briefing memorandum and the proposed resolution,” Schwieger said.
The president of the Willamette Cascade Model Railroad Club, Walt Mulford, also provided public testimony about the deferred maintenance.
“I, too, agree with doing the deferred maintenance on the railroad car and the depot,” Mulford said. “Both have historical value to the city, and they certainly have a lot of interest to folks in the city as it really represents part of what Springfield is, with the railroad coming through and helping build the city.”
The Springfield Area Chamber also commended the city’s proposal. Vonnie Mikkelsen, chamber president and CEO, said a few words on their behalf.
“Just imagine how stunning the improvement to that asset into the gateway of downtown Springfield will be with the dollars that are being considered for this reinvestment,” Mikkelsen said. “I believe truly, having sat in the seat inside that chamber for years and seeing the eyes light up for kids to the elderly adults, that it’ll be enjoyed for generations to come.”
Council approved the design-build method and authorized staff to prepare and issue an RFP for services. The final contract with the selected proposer will return to the council for award and decision at a future meeting.
