Redevelopment Commission Agenda & Packet 08.13.26

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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – July 23, 2026 Page | 3 Lidya Abreha, Project Engineer, recapped the Band Shell Project and the funding approved by the Redevelopment Commission in March 2026, including $250,000 for preliminary design. The project will construct a covered outdoor performance venue at Howard Park’s Event Lawn to support touring acts, festivals, and community events while attracting more visitors downtown. She reviewed the project scope, which included the stage, support facilities, fencing, landscaping, and site improvements, and shared renderings from the 10% design package. Lidya reported that the preliminary design has been completed, the consultant has been authorized to proceed with the 40% design phase, and the City is currently procuring a Construction Manager as Contractor (CMc). She also noted that the project has secured a $3 million READI grant and an additional $250,000 in tourism funding. The request before the Commission is for an additional $300,000 to complete the remaining design work. The project schedule anticipates selecting a CMc by October 2026, bidding in February 2027, beginning construction in April 2027, and reaching substantial completion by December 2027. Commissioner Gooden-Rodgers asked what the total cost was. Ms. Abreha stated $6 million which includes design. Vice President White asked how many other outside performing venues the City has? Mr. Molnar responded, Potawatomi Park has an amphitheater and Seitz Park’s existing stage is small. The proposed Howard Park stage would support larger events, allow simultaneous performances during festivals, and expand programming opportunities. Much of the necessary infrastructure, including truck access and electrical service, was already installed during the 2019 Howard Park redevelopment. President Relos asked, will this funding complete the design phase and provide the bid documents, with approximately $2.5 million still needed for construction? Mr. Molnar stated, yes. This funding will complete the remaining design work and prepare the project for bidding. Based on current estimates, about $2.5 million will still be needed to complete construction. However, more than $3 million in outside funding has already been secured, covering over 50% of the total project cost. Mr. Molnar anticipates returning to the Redevelopment Commission to request TIF funding for the remaining balance once final project costs are known.