Pasadena : Two Contracts Approved

Two contracts totaling more than $5.4 million were approved Tuesday by the Board of Directors.

The first, for $4.1 million, was awarded to Epstein Construction Inc. to build a 44,000-square-foot office and warehouse to house the Parks, Solid Waste and Field Operations divisions of the Public Works and Transportation Department. The project, including landscaping and furniture, will cost $5.8 million and will be built at the City Yard at 323 W. Mountain St.

Although City Director Kathryn Nack was concerned that Epstein’s bid was too low--$1 million lower than the city engineer’s estimate for the work--a city staff report found that it was reasonable.

The second contract, for $1.3 million, was awarded to Steiny & Co. Inc. to replace 182 traffic signals and modify 87 signals to conform with the automated traffic signal system to be installed by the city. The system will include 269 computerized traffic signals, a closed-circuit television for traffic surveillance, changeable message signs and low-power radio to provide information to motorists.