The City of El Paso will vote today on an item to award a $4.5 million contract to construct the next phase of the San Jacinto Plaza renovation project. City staff has recommended Basic IDIQ, Inc., a construction firm with an office in El Paso, for the project.
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| This rendering shows a shade structure that will protect the Los Lagartos sculpture. (City of El Paso) |
The bid includes construction of several amenities, including a shade structure and a reflection pool for the famed Los Lagartos sculpture which is currently in Ohio undergoing rehabilitation. The piece of public art will be located in the center of the plaza.
Another major feature is a full service café, which will be located on the western side of the park. It will be constructed to the City’s specifications, but no word has been released on whom will occupy the space.
An interactive water feature will also be built in the park, and may be built on the eastern side of the plaza. The site plan shows a “Splash Deck” in this area. Both vertical and arching sprays of water will be featured and lit by LED lights that will change color.
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| San Jacinto Plaza's renovation site plan. (City of El Paso) |
The City has also opted to include two weathered steel bridges in the park that will cross small arroyos which will be built into the landscape. Concrete pavers will cover one bridge deck while the other will be covered by faux wood.
Other amenities include café tables and chairs, bike racks, drinking fountains, benches, and activity spaces for table tennis, chess, a horseshoe/washer pit, and a stage. The contractor will also install signage throughout the plaza.
The contractor will have 360 days to complete the project, though must “substantially” complete work within 11 months. City Council will vote on awarding the contract at its January 2, 2014 meeting.