RIVERWALK COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Approve the DuMor model 490 as an alternative bench option for the Riverwalk
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DEPARTMENT: Transportation, Engineering and Development
SUBMITTED BY: Andrew Hynes, P.E., Deputy Director of Transportation, Engineering and Development/City Engineer
BOARD/COMMISSION REVIEW:
The Planning Design, and Construction (PDC) Committee expressed general support for the DuMor Model 490 bench at the August 4, 2026, meeting.
BACKGROUND:
The Riverwalk currently has a standard bench in the Victorian style with powder-coated steel frames and ipe wood slats. Benches with recycled plastic slats in the east extension were tried but had problems in the past with vandalism. The wood slats are easier to sand or stain over the vandalism.
DISCUSSION:
The state funding associated with the NCC Riverwalk Park requires that the materials used in the project follow the Buy America Act. While Victor Stanley is an American company, some components of the standard Riverwalk bench do not meet the funding requirements.
An initial alternative bench was presented at the July 8, 2026, Riverwalk Commission meeting. Based on the Commission's input, the Riverwalk consultant team was asked to review other options. Two other alternatives (DuMor Model 490 and Signature Streetscapes Model ASM-TB4HA) that are a closer match to the current Riverwalk standard bench were identified. Photos and details of these new proposed alternatives benches are attached for the Commission's review.
Representatives of the North Central College (NCC) Department of Occupational Therapy (OT) conducted a review of the bench options from various accessibility aspects. The NCC OT Team recommended DuMor model 490 as their preferred bench option. A copy of their full review is included as an attachment.
Based upon the comments at the PDC meeting and support from the NCC OT Team, staff recommends approval of the DuMor model 490 as an alternative bench...
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