Summary
5:30 P.M. - WORK SESSION (TRAINING ROOM)
At its work session, Council reviewed the latest design and budget progress for the Chanhassen Bluffs Community Center. Representatives from BKV Group, Sports Facilities Companies and RJM Construction provided an overview of the project’s updated renderings, site plan refinements, interior layouts, and current cost estimate. The total project estimate is $80,092,184, which includes a $2 million design contingency and a $2.4 million construction contingency. This keeps the project close to the original $80 million target approved by Council, even while accommodating inflationary pressures and market conditions, and it preserves every amenity and program area included in the voter-supported plan.
The design team walked through updates to the community room, field house, fitness and studio spaces and the large community terrace. The lower level continues to include two ice sheets, support spaces and shared locker rooms. The field house remains sized for nine pickleball courts or multi-sport use and includes the 30-by-30-yard turf practice module. Council also reviewed potential bid alternates such as digital signage, wood gym flooring, a roof over the terrace, a precast form liner for exterior elevations, operable partitions and rubber flooring for the elevated walking track.
The project schedule remains on track. The team intends to advance the design into the construction documents phase, refine bid alternates, coordinate with staff on operational details and prepare a bid package for release in spring 2026. Council will receive an updated cost review and full construction documents before the bid process begins. Construction is anticipated to start in 2026 with completion targeted for 2028.
Council expressed support for the current direction and agreed to continue moving the project forward. The community is encouraged to attend a public open house on this topic on January 7 at the Chanhassen Rec Center (4 to 6:30 p.m.). Residents will be able to meet with city staff, review updated materials, ask questions and share feedback. This open house will include renderings, amenity details and space for general discussion.
