Despite estimated costs coming in nearly $400,000 over budget, the Lake Forest City Council has approved construction of a new pavilion at Waveland Park.
At its Sept. 15 meeting, the council unanimously passed a $1.34 million contract, including a 5 % contingency, with Efraim Carlson Construction. The contract covers demolition of the existing 1975 pavilion and construction of a new approximately 2,100 square foot open-air structure featuring a fireplace, water bottle station, modern bathrooms, and a gabled and arched roof design.
Council members spoke of “sticker shock” with the higher-than-expected bids but decided to proceed.
“This is about as basic a structure as we can possibly design,” said Alderman Edward “Ted” Notz (2nd Ward), who called the pavilion the most deficient park amenity in the city.
Alderwoman Nancy Novit (1st Ward) agreed, adding, “It’s not going to get cheaper. It’s owed to the neighbors in the (second ward) to have a fully functioning pavilion. It’s just time to do it.”
City staff had originally estimated the project at $950,000. Earlier this year, the city received four bids, with the lowest at roughly $1.24 million. That contractor later increased its proposal by $137,000, citing higher plumbing and electrical costs. Efraim Carlson Construction then emerged as the lowest bidder at $1.34 million, while the highest bid topped $1.6 million.
Assistant Public Works Director Jim Lockefeer said all aspects of construction came in higher than anticipated, particularly electrical and plumbing work. City Manager Jason Wicha noted that while staff estimates are typically accurate, fluctuating commodity prices and contractor demand can create volatility.
“We hear the frustration and will continue to find ways to improve what is admittedly an inexact science,” Wicha said.
Lockefeer added that the city expects cost savings from other large capital projects, including both the Deerpath Road and Bank Lane streetscape improvements, the McClory bike path, and a fire station renovation design project.
City spokeswoman Dana Olson said Lake Forest’s Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Fund budget is nearly $40 million, with $25 million allocated for the expected renovation of the 1925 Field Court building into a new police headquarters. At the end of the last fiscal year, the fund balance stood at $30.5 million.
Demolition of the old pavilion by the end of September. Construction is scheduled for Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with Saturdays as needed. The pavilion’s interior is expected to be completed this winter, with the new facility opening next spring. Restrooms will be unavailable during construction.
Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
