GF County parking ramp repairs (update)

Faced with some expensive projects down the road – like a jail expansion and new juvenile detention build – the Grand Forks County Board is now wrestling with potential repairs to the downtown parking ramp.

A consultant has labeled the structure to be in poor condition for its age. The immediate fix will cost around $2.4 million dollars.

Jay Kleven of AE2S engineering says it still makes financial sense to invest in the structure.  “The net present value of the repairs needed now is under the 30% of replacement cost – under industry threshold to proceed with repairs.”

A 20-year maintenance plan carries a $5.1 million dollar price-tag. Razing the ramp is also a possibility in favor or surface parking.  Although no action was taken the commission admits a decision is needed sooner rather than later.