Consider Removal Without Replacement of the Flintwood Terrace Boardwalk

Over the Winter of 2004-05 city staff constructed a 300' foot long boardwalk in Wetland #114P parallel to the existing bituminous trail in the park. The purpose was threefold—one to access the sanitary sewer manhole within the wetland for maintenance purposes (denoted in the attached Location Map as 'Gravity PO121'.  Second, to provide visual and physical access to the open water areas of the pond for area trail users—and third, as unique recreational amenity with the swinging bench overlooking the water, which was popular for birders and people relaxing on their longer walks.

The boardwalk had served its intended purpose well for 15+ years, however during recent Winters, ice-loading has shifted and strained the 4" x 4" support posts, kinking them significantly under the 8' wood deck. Additionally, many of the wood boards are decayed and broken apart or missing, (photos within second attachment).  Due to overall condition of the boardwalk, it is no longer repairable and thus the purpose of this case is for the Commission to issue a recommendation on the disposition of the boardwalk—removal and replacement, or removal without replacement.

For evaluation and to inform the Commission on the disposition of the boardwalk, staff obtained a quote for the removal and disposal of the existing boardwalk by a contractor, which was $12,000.  Replacement of the boardwalk (following removal) would be in excess of $94,000. While the boardwalk was a valued amenity when in good condition, presently it is not fully functional and may be considered an eyesore and potentially a hazard.

In light of the above, the Commission may find it is in the public's interest to remove the boardwalk without replacement—as there are future boardwalk projects in the city where an approximate $100k in new boardwalk investments may provide more utility and connections, with the third attachment representing one example.

The funding required on this topic depends on what is proposed—removal costs if performed by Public Works staff may be able to be accommodated by the 2023 parks General Fund Budget (no special authorization), if performed by a contractor, the Capital Replacement Fund would be the logical source, if the boardwalk is to be replaced.

If the boardwalk is to be replaced, again, the Capital Maintenance Fund would be the primary funding source, perhaps with some Sanitary Sewer Utility funds, as the boardwalk was useful to access the manhole in the wetland.

Staff's recommendation is to remove the boardwalk utilizing in-house resources, understanding that the boardwalk could be replaced at a later date if it is determined to be a worthwhile expenditure.

Motion to recommend to City Council the removal of the boardwalk without replacement.

Or,

Motion of other.