Item 21 - Construction Contract for the Santa Ana Zoo Hive Building

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Construction Contract for the Santa Ana Zoo Hive Building September 16, 2025 Page 2 6. Approve an Agreement with Berg & Associates, Inc., for Construction Management and Inspection services for the Santa Ana Zoo Education Hub Building A — Phase 1 Project, in an amount not to exceed $374,315 for a three- year term beginning September 16, 2025 and expiring September 15, 2028, with an option for two, one-year extensions. (Agreement No. A-2025-XXX) 7. Determine that, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the recommended actions are exempt from further review. Categorical Exemption Environmental Review No. ER-2025-62 will be filed for Project No. 23-2601. GOVERNMENT CODE §84308 APPLIES: Yes DISCUSSION The Public Works Agency Engineering Services Division (PWA) is responsible for the administration and oversight of all Capital Improvement Projects in the City. The Santa Ana Zoo Education Hub Building A — Phase 1 (No. 23-2601) (Project) involves the construction of a new educational facility, known as the Hive, within the Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park. This Project is the first phase of a multi -phased initiative to expand and modernize the Zoo's educational infrastructure. The Project includes the construction of the Hive building, which will serve as a flexible space for educational programming, community workshops, public events, and after-hours rentals. The Project location is immediately adjacent to the Zoo's large event lawn and amphitheater space which will enhance the functionality of those spaces (Exhibit 1). The Hive building is designed to support both indoor and outdoor learning experiences and will incorporate sustainable building practices, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant access, and Zoo - compatible architectural elements. This project supports the goals outlined in the Santa Ana Zoo Master Plan and aligns with the broader City vision of enhancing public spaces, promoting environmental education, and improving community -serving amenities. The Hive will strengthen the Zoo's role as a regional attraction and a vital resource for students, families, and educators. The project is necessary to meet the growing demand for structured educational programming and to replace outdated facilities that no longer meet current or future needs. The educational reach of the Zoo is broad, with nearly 500 school visits in 2024, representing over 33,000 students. The education team has led over 600 programs for the public, including 29 park pop -ups, 421 animal presentations, and 90 story time programs. Construction is anticipated to begin in November 2025, with project completion expected by November 2026. The construction of this Project is coordinated with planned improvements at the Zoo including future development phases of the Education