Replication of Chain Ferry Arbors (Roll Call)

City Council Agenda Item Report

FROM:

Scott Herbert – Public Works Superintendent

MEETING DATE:

May 12, 2025

SUBJECT:

Replication of Chain Ferry Arbors

DESCRIPTION: Description of Work – Chain Ferry Structural Maintenance and Improvement Plan The City of Saugatuck Department of Public Works (DPW), in coordination with the City Engineer and the Historic District Commission, has developed a comprehensive, three-phase plan to maintain, preserve, and improve the structural elements of the City’s historic Chain Ferry. This phased approach prioritizes public safety, protects historic character, and ensures long-term functionality of this iconic asset.

Project Overview – Three Phases Phase 1: Safety Repairs for 2025 Season To prepare the Chain Ferry for safe operation in the 2025 season, DPW staff is completing minor structural repairs to the decking and ramp components. This work includes reinforcement of key areas and is being conducted in-house. The scope has been reviewed and approved by the Historic District Commission. Phase 2: Chain Ferry Arch Replacement DPW, in collaboration with the City Engineer, has coordinated with Diversified Welding & Fabrication, LLC (Holland, MI) to replicate and replace the structural steel arches. The scope of work includes: • • • • •

Field measurements and development of shop drawings Fabrication of new structural steel arches Sandblasting and application of marine-grade epoxy coating Removal of existing arch structures Delivery and installation of the new components

Planned Improvements: To improve longevity while preserving the historic look of the structures, two material upgrades will be incorporated:

1. Thicker structural steel: Vertical columns will be fabricated from 3/16" steel instead of the original 1/8", increasing strength and resistance to wear. 2. Epoxy protective coating: A marine-grade epoxy finish will help protect the new arches from corrosion in the waterfront environment. Estimated Cost: $17,000.00 Originally scheduled for spring 2025, this work is now tentatively planned for fall 2025 to avoid disrupting seasonal ferry operations and to allow time for formal City Council review and approval. While DPW sought quotes from two other metal fabricators, no estimates were received. Diversified Welding has proven to be highly responsive and easy to work with throughout the planning process. Phase 3: Ramp Structure Redesign The final phase will involve working with the City Engineer to develop improved ramp structure designs. These will enhance long-term durability, safety, and ease of maintenance, while maintaining the ferry's historic character. A detailed scope and cost estimate will be presented to Council in a future proposal.

BUDGET ACTION REQUIRED: This is a budgeted item for the 2024/2025 fiscal year. COMMITTEE/COMMISSION REVIEW: Historic District Commission LEGAL REVIEW: N/A SAMPLE MOTION: Motion to approve the work proposed by Diversified Welding & Fabrication, LLC. to replicate the steel structures of the Chain Ferry arbors, contingent on approval from the Historic District Commission.

Diversified Welding & Fabrication, LLC. 4189 Blue Star Hwy. Holland, MI 49423 US (616) 738-0400

Estimate

ADDRESS

SHIP TO

Scott Herbert City Of Saugatuck 102 Butler St Saugatuck, MIchigan 49453 United States

Scott Herbert City Of Saugatuck 102 Butler St Saugatuck, MIchigan 49453 United States

ESTIMATE #

DATE

9960

02/28/2025

SALES REP Rich SERVICE

QTY

RATE

AMOUNT

Field Welding & Fabrication Estimate for City Of Saugatuck to replicate and rebuild chain ferry arches including the following - Shop drawing - Field measurements - All structural steel materials - Fabrication - Sandblasting - Epoxy paint - Removal of existing arches - Delivery - Installation

8,500.00

17,000.00

Field Welding & Fabrication T&M rate to repair/reinforce ramps sections for before the season starts

100.00

2,000.00

TOTAL

Accepted By

$19,000.00

Accepted Date

City of Saugatuck 102 Butler St PO Box 86 Saugatuck, MI 48823 (269) 857-2603 Fax (269) 857-4406

Certificate of Appropriateness Historic District Approval P-HIS-25024 Issued: Expires:

This permit conveys no right to occupy any STREET, ALLEY, or SIDEWALK, or any part thereof either temporarily or permanently.

04/17/25 04/17/26

Other SEC 152 Type of Construction:____________________________________________Code Section:___________________________

LOCATION 102 BUTLER ST 57-300-186-00 Plat/Sub:

Work Description:

Lot:

PROPERTY OWNER

APPLICANT

CITY OF SAUGATUCK

CITY OF SAUGATUCK

PO BOX 86 SAUGATUCK MI 49453

PO BOX 86 SAUGATUCK MI 49453

Ph.: Fx.:

Ph.: Fx.:

Replacing decking at chain ferry landing with Like for Like material.

Stipulations:

The City of Saugatuck Historic District finds that the project as approved meets the standards as found in Chapter 152 of the City Ordinance . Issuance does not absolve the applicant from its obligation to comply with the Zoning and Building Code requirements of the city or other applicable local, state or federal requirements. This permit shall be kept at the site of the work and available for inspection at all times during the project and until an occupancy permit has been issued or until its date of expiration.

Luke Thompson - Zoning Administrator