Space planning and cost estimating methods

Aug 12 · MinutesFirst mention

Consultants explained how they would plan space and estimate costs for the building. For space, they interview the people who will use it, look at current buildings, and study how the departments work. They try to balance what is ideal with the budget and future growth. For costs, estimators use current market prices, costs from similar projects, and counts of items like doors and windows, not just average cost per square foot. They suggested bid alternates, which are extra features priced separately that can be added later if money allows. They also suggested a contingency, which is money set aside for surprise costs. Consultants said recent projects have seen costs rise 4 to 5 percent a year, and that keeping the same team from design through construction helps avoid scope creep, which is the project growing beyond its plan.

Aug 19 · Minutes

SMP said construction is only one part of a full project budget. Legal costs, bond counsel (the lawyers who handle the borrowing), contingencies (money set aside for surprises), permitting, and other costs should also be in the funding request. SMP said it prefers to bring in a construction manager early to give more certain costs, make independent estimates, and help manage risk. SMP said its past projects have stayed within approved budgets and have not needed to go back to voters for more money.

Sep 2 · Video

The committee reviewed a first-draft space plan from SMP Architects. The plan covers police, fire and emergency management needs. It shares space such as the lobby, training room, kitchen, meeting rooms and fitness room. The total is about 17,000 square feet, with just over 14,000 for police and fire space alone. The earlier goal was just under 15,000. A committee member said the draft will be cut back, and the police and fire departments will meet the architect to work on a second version. The draft is not a real layout. Whether the building has one floor or two depends on the site results. A committee member said one floor may cost less because it avoids an elevator.

Nov 12 · Agenda

The committee will review where the estimate stands for the public safety building. This is a heading on the agenda only.