Surprise find means extra $65,000 cost for Gelatin Factory Park project in Grayslake
When village contractors began work to turn the site of the former Grayslake Gelatin Co. into a new park, they unearthed something unexpected.
While working near the railroad tracks in July, they discovered the concrete foundations of since-forgotten buildings likely associated with the old gelatin company.
"We're not sure what it used to be and we don't know where they came from," Assistant Village Manager Brett Kryska said.
Berger Excavating went underground and removed the concrete structures so the grading work could continue.
Because removing the concrete foundations was not part of the project's scope, Berger has asked the village to pay an additional $65,000. The village board will consider approving that expense at its meeting Tuesday.
Even with the added expense, it is likely the project's cost will still be lower than first anticipated. Initially, it was expected to cost around $2.5 million. But in April, Berger Excavating's bid for the grading portion came in at just under $1.3 million, about $600,000 less than expected.
The park is north of Center Street and the railroad tracks, where the Grayslake Gelatin factory operated from 1922 to 1982. The land was purchased by the village in 2015.
At last month's Color Aloft Balloon Festival, officials dedicated the park and opened the paved portions to the public. Much of the park is roped off because the newly planted grass still needs time to grow.
Work also is being done to preserve the iconic smokestack, the only structure from the old factory left standing at the park. In July, the village board approved a plan to pay Gerard Chimney Co. approximately $260,900 for masonry repair, steelwork and tuckpointing to the structure.
A formal park dedication is scheduled for Nov. 3.