A last-minute upgrade to replace a malfunctioning sprinkler system at the LaTrenta recreation complex will boost field improvement project costs nearly 20 percent, said the borough engineer.
Borough Council members approved a $70,000 change order July 14 for a new sprinkler system to be installed at the LaTrenta-Chestnut Ridge recreation complex, in addition to two new synthetic turf infields and drainage improvements recently installed there.
The last-minute change order represents a 19.9 percent increase and boosts the project’s total cost to $421,289.00
The field is undergoing long-needed improvements, expected to be completed by September, although it was unclear whether the new sprinkler system would delay the opening of fields. The complex, at 18 Heather Ridge Lane, includes two ballfields and two tennis courts.
The initial project bid from Dakota Excavating, Hackensack, totalled $351,289.00, and included replacing two infields with synthetic turf and installation of underground drainage in grass areas surrounding the infields.
Their contract also included any repairs to the existing sprinkler system where their work distrurbed the sprinkler piping, said Borough Engineer Andrew Hipolit, of Maser Consulting.
“Dakota Excavating has completed their work associated with replacing the infields with synthetic turf. As part of that work, Dakota located and tried to operate the existing sprinkler system. Based on an evaluation of the sprinkler system by Dakota and Maser Consulting, it is evident that the sprinkler system is in total disrepair and in need of a total replacement,” Hipolit told council members July 9 via email.
While field improvement work is ongoing, said officials, the LaTrenta tennis courts will be accessible.