Park Drive development plans moving forward
Weirton Council members participate in work session to discuss project
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WEIRTON -- Plans for the proposed Park Drive development are moving forward, although city officials say additional funds will need to be freed up to cover the costs.
Members of Weirton Council called a work session to discuss the project, meeting Tuesday with representatives of Park Drive Development LLC, the Business Development Corp. of the Northern Panhandle and McKinley and Associates.
Ward 3 Councilman Fred Marsh explained officials had received an email several weeks ago detailing potential cost overruns for the project, with bids having been received from multiple companies in mid-June for the early phases of construction.
"We are here tonight to discuss what our options are," Marsh said.
Kaleb Knowlton, program manager for the city's Planning and Development Department, reviewed the lowest bid package for council, breaking down the costs of the base proposal, as well as the costs of three alternatives involving aesthetic features such as turf and a fountain.
This phase of the project includes the construction and installation of various infrastructure, including water and sanitary lines, roads and parking lots.
Thomas Wippenbeck of McKinley and Associates explained much of the issue could be attributed to the increase in costs for construction materials over the last year.
"From McKinley's perspective, that's what we're seeing across the board," Wippenbeck said.
Finance Director Diana Smoljanovich said there is the possibility the city could use a portion of its American Rescue Plan funding with the project, as it would include water and sewer infrastructure installation. She is checking with state officials to see if it would be approved.
"I've already submitted to the state Auditor's office," she said. "They haven't responded yet."
Smoljanovich also noted there is more than $3 million available through the city's Tax Increment Financing funds, which are derived from a portion of real property tax revenues involving the Three Springs Business Park. The project is located within the business park.
Marvin Six, executive director of the BDC, explained, typically, a TIF District is in effect for 30 years. Weirton's TIF District covering the Three Springs Business Park was established around 2005.
Adding to the concerns is that bids for the actual structures in the development are due in two weeks, but Utilities Director Butch Mastrantoni said construction on those buildings could not move forward without at least having water lines installed.
"We don't have fire protection if we don't have water lines and hydrants," Mastrantoni said.
J.J. Bernabei, of Park Drive Development LLC, said while he and others with the group understand the investment required of the city, they, too, are making a large investment in the development, and they want to make sure it is top notch.
"It's a big commitment on our part," Bernabei said. "We want to build it with the backdrop of a Cadillac. That's what we're shooting for; nothing less."
Several on council agreed they would like to see the project move forward with its full proposal.
"That's what's going to make it outstanding," Ward 2 Councilman Mike Adams said. "Otherwise it's another strip mall."
It was recommended an ordinance awarding the bid on the infrastructure be prepared for the regular council meeting Aug. 9, with funds distributed based on what response is received from the state.
Marsh said the important thing is for the project to move forward, noting he has been waiting more than a year for construction to begin.
"I want shovels in the ground," he said.
The Park Drive development is proposed to include multiple structures featuring both retail and residential spaces. The initial phase of the development will be located on 7.2 acres along Park Drive, with an entrance across from the Wal-Mart Supercenter. A grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration also will assist with the funding for the project.