Request for DDA Extension Due to
Weather-Related Construction Delays
To: City of Fresno
Attn: Georgeanne White
Date: Jan 10, 2025
Subject: Request for Extension on Current DDA for Downtown Fresno Project Project Overview
Project Name: Courtyard By Marriot Downtown Fresno
Project Address: 808 M Street, Fresno, CA 93721
Requested Extension Period: 1 year
Background
The Downtown Fresno Project has encountered significant delays due to unforeseen weather conditions. We seek an extension on our current DDA to accommodate these delays and ensure the successful completion of the project.
Weather Impact Overview
End of 2022:
From October to December 2022, Fresno experienced unprecedented rainfall due to a series of atmospheric river events. This period saw record-breaking precipitation, leading to widespread flooding and saturation of construction sites. The National Weather Service recorded up to 3 inches of rain in Fresno during late December alone, contributing to severe disruptions in construction schedules.
Early 2023:
The heavy rains continued into the first quarter of 2023, with January marked by several intense storms. These events further worsened delays, as saturated ground conditions and persistent wet weather made it challenging to proceed with critical construction tasks such as excavation, foundation work, and concrete pouring.
End of 2023:
December 2023 brought another bout of significant rainfall. The persistent wet conditions throughout this period again delayed construction activities, impacting site access, material deliveries, and overall project timelines.
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Specific Delays and Challenges
1. Excavation and Foundation Work:
• Waterlogged conditions prevented the timely completion of excavation and foundation tasks.
• The need to constantly pump out water from the construction site led to increased labor and equipment costs.
2. Concrete Pouring:
• Wet conditions delayed concrete pouring schedules, which are highly sensitive to weather.
• Several scheduled pours had to be postponed, causing cascading delays across subsequent project phases.
3. Site Access and Logistics:
• Flooded roads and access points hampered the delivery of materials and movement of equipment.
• Additional resources were required to manage and mitigate these logistical challenges.
Request for Extension
Given the unexpected and severe weather events that have significantly impacted our construction schedule, we respectfully request an extension of 1 year on our current DDA.
This extension will allow us to accommodate the delays caused by weather, ensure the quality and safety of construction, and successfully complete the Downtown Fresno Project.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter. Please let us know if you require any additional information or documentation to process this request.
Current Project Status
The Downtown Fresno Marriott project is progressing steadily, with the building now prepared for lath and plaster on the exterior. Inside, drywall installation is underway, marking significant progress on interior finishes. The switchgear has already been installed, and we are on PG&E's schedule for the transformer hookup, which will provide power to the site. From this stage, we typically anticipate obtaining occupancy permits within 6 to 8 months. Considering the current pace and unforeseen delays, a 1-year extension on the Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA) should provide adequate time to complete the project and address any remaining contingencies.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Randeep Dhillon
Metro Hospitality Services, Inc