Civic Center Transformer/Boiler Project
Program Description
The Civic Center Facilities Dept. proposes the replacement of the old transformer unit with a modern device. Also, this project proposes moving the new unit from the basement area to an area that complies with codes outside the building.
Why this matters
The current transformer is an aging device that is located in the Civic Center in the basement. This violates modern construction code. In addition, the current transformer is an ancient device that is less than reliable. Replacing the transformer with an updated device will dramatically increase both reliability and safety in the Civic Center basement.
How is this eligible?
The United States Department of the Treasury allows local governments that lost revenue (i.e. lost taxes, utility payments, etc.) during the COVID-19 pandemic to use ARPA funds, up to the amount of revenue lost, for government services. This category is extremely discretionary and allows for funds to be used for any service traditionally provided by a government. Treasury’s Final Rule allowed local governments to claim a standard allowance of $10 million in lost revenue. The City of Great Falls (which did not experience financial losses during the pandemic) took this standard allowance and may spend up to $10 million of its total allocation to pay for its traditional government services.
Status Updates
The City Commission approved the contract for Cushing Terrell to complete the engineering and design for replacement of the transformer at the 12/7/22 commission meeting. Cushing is working on the design to enable the project to go out to bid in December 2022.
The Design was completed, and the project was advertised for Bid in Feb. 2023. The Project was awarded to AT Klemens at the 4/7/23 Commission Meeting. The construction process will begin as soon as equipment has been ordered.
Preliminary work on equipment selection and ordering has begun. Construction is scheduled to start in Spring 2024.
