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Your contribution fuels the stories that shape Decorah—make a difference today. DECORAH — The Decorah Parks and Recreation Board gave its consensus Thursday to move forward with a new bid package for the Decorah Athletic Complex, recommending a base bid that includes eight pickleball courts and two ballfields. Board members agreed during the June 19 meeting that the configuration would help build public support while leaving room for future add-ons. The city previously rejected the original bids for the complex due to cost concerns. "The recommendation to reject the bid, come back with a new bid package, largely surrounding removing asphalt… the council made a recommendation first," City Manager Travis Goedken said. The revised bidding plan separates additional amenities—such as irrigation, sod, batting cages and a paved parking lot—as alternates that can be priced separately. "If the funding is not there to make the award of the alternate at that time, they can at least know… it's a good goal to fundraise to get that additional 'alternate' that you want to see as part of the project," Goedken said. City staff emphasized that this rebid would use unit pricing instead of lump sums. "We will know what the actual cost for linear foot of fences, what the per ton of recreational line [is], per ton of earthwork moved," Goedken said. "That makes it easier to do the alternates as well because you're breaking down the project into smaller segments." Nancy Nelson, a member of the fundraising committee, spoke during public comment to propose adjustments to naming rights. "We feel like going from four courts to eight courts really makes us feel like it's a pickleball plaza," she said. Nelson recommended offering naming rights to the entire eight-court area for $75,000, and individual court sponsorships at $25,000, allowing up to four families to sponsor one court. The board chose to delay a decision on naming rights until a future agenda, as it was not listed for formal action. If the revised plan proceeds without delay, the new bid package could be released by July 7. "We wanna get a new bid out there July 7 to possibly still catch this construction season," Goedken said. Board members acknowledged the risk of repeating last year's delays if funding falls short again. "If we do a base bid with two fields and eight courts… we're really stuck," board member Benji Nichols said. "[If] we have to go to a third bid on this project? We are in trouble." Still, most agreed the expanded base could help ignite public momentum. "That's what the committee is trying to generate, some excitement, and get the general public going on this, and show them that we're really serious about raising the money," board chair Rich Gaard said. A special closed joint work session with the City Council is scheduled for June 30. At that time, further discussion on naming rights and rebid details may occur. Become a part of the exclusive circle! Subscribe to the newsletter for free and gain access to special offers, bonus content and insider perks.

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Decorah Parks Board Supports Eight Pickleball Courts, Two Ballfields in Complex Rebid