SUBJECT
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Approve Consultant Services Authorization (CSA) with Dewberry Engineers, Inc. for Circle B Bar Reserve Recreation and Habitat Enhancements. ($187,498.43 one-time expense)
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DESCRIPTION
The scope of work is for project management, engineering design, permitting services and construction oversight to enhance opportunities at Circle B Bar Reserve. This project relates to water quality benefits, habitat improvement and increasing facilities for nature-based public outreach programs.
Circle B Bar Reserve was jointly acquired, by the Polk County and the Southwest Water Management District primarily for protection of the water resources as part of the headwaters for Upper Saddle Creek and Lake Hancock which flow into the Peace River. In addition, acquiring the property would allow for restoration of the Banana Creek marsh system, improving water quality and providing for additional water storage in the restored marsh system.
Much of the property had previously been converted to pasture, but in 2005 and 2006, restoration projects were completed to restore much of the original hydrologic function of the lands. In November 2008, construction of Polk's Nature Discovery Center was completed. This center provides educational opportunities for Polk County public schools and is open to the public. Exhibits in the center showcase and explain environmental and hydrologic functions of Florida's natural resources. Nature trails, picnic pavilions and outside exhibit areas are for use by the public on the grounds adjacent to the center. Approximately 6,000 visitors per week to Circle B enjoy these amenities.
To further educational outreach and recreational opportunities, staff are proposing several enhancements. The scope of includes providing engineering services necessary to update the Reserve's Master Site Plan, design elements for water quality improvement, education and recreation improvements and assist COUNTY in successfully permitting all aspects o...
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