Press release
The Athens City Council met in Special Session on Friday, September 29, 2017 to discuss and consider all matters related to entering into an agreement with Gallagher Construction Company, LP for Construction Management Services of the highly anticipated renovation of the Cain Center.
If this company name sounds familiar, it is because they are already working here in our community on another very exciting project. In 2016, Gallagher Construction was selected by the Athens Independent School District (AISD) Board of Trustees to be the construction manager on the 59.9 million dollar bond issued for the construction and redevelopment of Athens schools.
“Gallagher comes highly recommended by AISD officials,” said Interim City Manager Gary Whittle. “Not only does Gallagher bring decades of construction experience to the project but we have witnessed first-hand their diligence and dedication to the work being done at our schools. We look forward to getting started with them to revitalize the Cain Center.”
As a part of the approved contract, council selected the Construction Manager as Advisor delivery method. This form of construction management allows for governmental entities to select construction managers based upon qualifications. It is the same method used by AISD on the $59.9 million bond issuance.
“What I find particularly attractive about the CMA method of delivery is that it’s more transparent than other methods when it comes to the bidding process, and it provides more opportunities for local businesses to join the project if they have the ability to bid competitively,” said Councilwoman Toni Clay.
The estimated project budget for the Cain Center renovations is $7.2 million. Gallagher’s construction management fee is based upon the construction estimate and project schedule; the fee is fixed at $468,000.
“Now that Gallagher is on board we are going to begin working very conscientiously with them and PGAL Architects to find value engineering opportunities, in effort to reduce the project cost wherever possible,” said Councilman Ed McCain. “All of the council wants the Cain Center to thrive when it reopens but we need to handle the construction phase of the project sensibly,” he added.
The present timeline for the Cain Center project calls for construction to begin next spring with the project finishing in February of 2019. Nasi Kombos, Assistant City Manager, emphasized that, “From the public forums and meetings held, we know just how important the facility is to residents. Over the next several months we will be working very hard to stick to deadlines and so we can reopen the doors of the Cain Center on schedule.”
Athens Mayor Monte Montgomery said, “Having built a career in the construction industry, I understand that the selection of the appropriate construction manager for an important project such as this needs to be very carefully thought through. Therefore, the decision to approve Gallagher Construction was not taken lightly. I am eager to see the progress of the Cain Center renovations and like you, look forward to seeing the Cain Center brought back to life!”
For any questions or more information regarding this project please contact City Hall at 903-675-5131.
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