Brownsville Metro Assistant Director Clarifies Delay on Completion of Downtown Parking Garage

From the editor:  The article below was originally included as an addendum to the previous article, but it contains enough added information to stand on its own as a followup.

Andrew Munoz, Assistant Director of Brownsville Metro called this morning to discuss my concerns about the delay in completing the downtown parking garage.  Mr. Munoz was absent due to illness from last night's meeting of the Transit Advisory Board held at 5:30 PM on the second floor of the multi-modal facility.  On the agenda for last night's meeting, listed as point # 2 was:  "Update on Multimodal Project-Parking Garage(Andrew Munoz).  Due to Mr. Munoz' absence, that item was tabled.

Multi-modal Bus Station
Viewed from Parking Garage Location

Mr. Munoz mentioned in our phone conversation that the figures in my original story were basically correct, except that the vehicle spaces would actually number 190, according to the architectural plan. 

The garage is limited to 3-1/2 stories(actually 4 levels with the top level being uncovered)by Heritage Foundation requirements that it not overwhelm local architecture.  The height would be approximately level with the multi-modal exclusive of the dome.  Funding also plays a role in the number of levels.  Mr. Munoz estimated another level would add $800,000 to the overall cost.

Munoz explained that the city's purchase of speculative real estate did not affect the garage project's funding as those come through the Brownsville Economic Development Council, which initially approved the original $4,100,000.  Now, Munoz states, the original agreement is in the process of being reworked to reflect the actual current cost to complete the project, $5,100,000.  The paperwork for that adjustment was initiated 45 days ago, a time frame Munoz described as "short" in these situations. 

Project Sign with Original Completion Date

Another factor in the delay has been the routing of electrical power for the building.  Initial plans, Munoz stated, called for underground electrical cables, but that was found to be cost prohibitive.  Current plans are being considered with P.U.B. for more traditional overhead power service.  

As to the $390,000 needed for American Disabilities Act compliance with respect to the surrounding sidewalks and the garage itself, Munoz confirmed that the change order will be funded separately under a New Freedom grant.  The parking garage will be linked with the bike trail, with a bike rack out front not taking away from garage space for motor vehicles.