The Dexter City Council is weighing whether to pursue a handicap lift for the gazebo at Monument Park after a new engineering evaluation estimated the project would cost between $55,000 and $60,000 and require ongoing inspections and maintenance.
City Manager Justin Breyer summarized the findings in a memorandum to council dated May 6. According to the report, the estimated cost does not include additional sidewalk work needed to connect the lift area to nearby handicap parking. The report also noted that contingency funds would likely be necessary if structural or site problems are discovered during construction.
Under Michigan building and elevator codes, the lift would need to be enclosed on all four sides, though a roof enclosure is not required. The report noted the lift would require a minimum clear platform size of 36 inches by 52 inches, with a recommended size of 42 inches by 60 inches to better accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
OHM Advisors recommended placing the lift on the north side of the gazebo near existing handicap parking along Central Street. The proposed location would minimize visual impacts from Main Street while allowing easier access to the existing sidewalk network.
The engineering report also called for new site improvements, including a striped crosswalk connection from the handicap parking area to a new curb ramp and sidewalk leading to the lift.
Council members are considering several possible next steps, including directing staff to prepare bid specifications for the lift project, rebidding a previously proposed ramp concept to seek additional proposals, postponing the project as part of future capital planning, or taking no action.
The low bid previously received for a gazebo ramp project was $50,915.65, according to the city council meeting packet.
114 North Main St Suite 10 Chelsea, MI 48118
