TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON—The Township Council is expected to vote on a proposed $4.8 million Department of Public Works (DPW) facility at its Dec. 16 meeting, with council members requesting cost comparisons between steel and brick-and-mortar structures before making a final decision.
The two-story, three-bay design for the new DPW garage includes approximately $900,000 in site work and engineering costs, a 10% contingency fund for unforeseen expenses, a 6% inflation adjustment, and a $200,000 on-site salt shed. Township Administrator Mark DiCarlo described the $4.8 million estimate as “a worst-case number,” adding that the final cost may be lower.
Council President Michael DeSena requested DiCarlo provide a cost estimate for a steel structure to compare with the proposed brick-and-mortar design. Steel buildings are generally less expensive but may have shorter lifespans and higher maintenance needs compared to brick-and-mortar structures.
“I’ve been fielding calls and emails from residents asking about the cost difference between the two types of buildings,” DeSena said, estimating that steel structures could cost 25–30% less. He noted, however, that the durability of any structure depends heavily on construction quality and maintenance.
Mayor Peter Calamari said the township will present cost comparisons for steel and brick designs at the Dec. 16 meeting.
The current proposal follows a Nov. 12 council meeting where Calamari introduced a revised $4.2 million plan, reducing costs by downsizing the building from five bays to three. The new design reserves the second floor for DPW operations and storage, and equipment storage needs are being addressed with off-site options.
“The DPW feels this would fit their needs, and there are cost savings,” Calamari said, noting the department collaborated with Beckmeyer Engineering to refine the design.
The township’s original DPW building was demolished three years ago due to soil contamination from leaking fuel tanks dating back to the 1970s and 1980s. The site has since been remediated to meet state environmental standards.
Engineering costs for the new facility were described as “very reasonable” by township officials. During a brief straw poll at a recent meeting, the council voted 4–0 in favor of the revised DPW building concept.
The council must finalize its decision soon to avoid further delays. Calamari emphasized the importance of moving forward: “This is a necessary project for the township.”