Taking action on what many see as a much-needed project, the Oakdale City Council has unanimously approved a $156,200 contract to retrofit lighting at Field 1 in Kerr Park, Oakdale’s largest park. The project aims to modernize outdated floodlights, paving the way for night games long requested by the community.
Council members voted 5-0 at their June 2 meeting in favor of awarding the construction contract to Modesto Executive Electric, which submitted the sole bid in the informal bidding process. The approved contract includes $142,200 for base work and a 10 percent contingency of $14,200. Funding will come from the Parks Replacement Fund (Fund 549 – CP2414).
Located along the Stanislaus River, the 14-acre Kerr Park features picnic areas, a playground, and three baseball fields, which are in use nearly year-round. Upgrading the lighting on Field 1 has been a longstanding community priority.
“The community has been asking for this forever,” said Carina McDonald, Capital Projects Manager.
According to McDonald’s report, the scope includes reusing existing light poles and conduits, removing and replacing 22 outdated 1500W metal halide fixtures with 1200W LED sports lights, installing new ballasts, and adding a lockable on/off control box. The project also includes the safe disposal of old fixtures, in compliance with California state requirements.
“The community will appreciate this very much,” said Councilmember Jarod Pitassi.
Two other contractors – Vintage Contractors and National LED – were invited to bid but did not respond.
Modesto Executive Electric’s itemized estimate includes $63,000 for light replacement, $21,000 for panel and lighting control, and $16,000 for lift rental, among other costs. The lighting system is designed to deliver 50-foot candles of illumination in the infield and 30 in the outfield, with a minimum 50,000-hour lifespan per fixture.
The approved resolution authorizes the city manager to execute the agreement and oversee the project, which is expected to begin later this year.
The measure passed with full Council support and no public opposition.
