Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into contract with Elford for the Fran Ryan Center Project. The contract amount being authorized by this ordinance is $5,000,000.00.
This project’s mission is to support the ability of the Recreation and Parks Department to meet the needs of Columbus residents by creating facilities that are stimulating, providing support for the arts and creative community, as well as providing important park space for the Olde Towne East Community. This four acre site, formerly the Douglas School and located at 51 South Douglass Street, was purchased in 2020. With the procurement of this property, the Recreation and Parks Department acquired a unique opportunity to develop an innovative senior-focused community center and park. This will allow the department to offer expanded and more efficient space for new programs, services, and recreational opportunities for the surrounding community. This space will also be senior-centric and support the programming that took place at the former Golden Hobby Shop and Martin Janis Center.
The department has previously entered into contract with Pizzuti Companies and Moody Nolan architectural firm in to complete the design of the center and to aid the Recreation and Parks Department in its delivery. During this time extensive community outreach and input has taken place. The plans for this facility are nearly complete. Of note, this project has had some name changes. It was formerly known as the Community Creative Campus and later became known as the Broad Street Arts and Senior Campus. Finally, the facility and project is now officially known as the Fran Ryan Center. The new building’s designation honors former councilmember Fran Ryan, a City of Columbus Hall of Fame member and champion for Columbus’ older adult community.
The Recreation and Parks Department proposes to deliver this project using a Construction Manager at Ri...
Click here for full text