Costly construction sites Building firms want too much money from the city
Bonn · The renovation of Ria-Maternus-Platz has been delayed once again. The city says that the companies who responded to their tender are asking for too much money. Meanwhile, work has begun on the Mehlem Market Square.
It’s bad news for those awaiting the renovation of Ria-Maternus-Platz in Bad Godesberg. Building firms responding to the city’s tender turned in bids which the city considers too high. But at the Mehlem Marktplatz, construction work began on Monday and is expected to continue until October 12. This work follows the beautification of Klufterplatz in Friesdorf. Work is expected to start soon in Lannesdorf.
Renovation work around the Bad Godesberg train station was already supposed to have started at the end of the year. But according to information from the Civil Engineering Office, four companies responded to a city tender, wanting fifty percent more money than had been estimated. "Due to the current economic situation and the capacity of companies, the price level for civil engineering projects is currently very high," read a statement from the city. The audit office has decided to cancel the tender because of the "unreasonably high prices". At the beginning of 2019, another bidding process is expected.
Town square pavements in poor condition
Mehlem: For Friesdorf and now Mehlem, the old pavement is being demolished and taken away, said site manager Pascal Lenzen. Local groups and residents agreed about how the town squares would look following the renovations. Marc Hoffman of the city press office, said the transformations should improve the quality of living. The trigger for the work was the poor condition of the grounds, with many loose stones underfoot.
According to the city, seven trees had to be cut down, but three new ones will be planted in new tree beds. Some seating is being renewed and old showcases taken away. Historic decorative outdoor lighting will be rearranged and new information cases set up, according to Hoffman. Pedestrian crossings will be made more accessible and new trashcans and bike racks will be installed.
Friesdorf: "The place has become friendlier," said one of two young mothers who was out enjoying the sun in the morning, sitting on a bench. "But even more could have been done for the children." For example, something like the red climbing locomotive on soft mats which can be found at Bottler-Platz and Clemens-August-Platz. In any case, their children are not allowed to climb the basalt fountain, because the edges are too dangerous. The Klufterplatz will be officially inaugurated on Sunday, September 16 at 12pm; the public is invited.
Lannesdorf: Work at Brunnenplatz is expected to begin on October 22 and go until November 16. The ground will be improved, walls renewed and tree beds enlarged. A ramp will go to Deutschherrenstraße, and in the center of the square there will be a new stand for the Christmas tree.
(Orig. text: Richard Bongartz / Translation: ck)
