This Contract Modification No. 1 with Garbutt Construction Company is to establish the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) of $9,000,000 for construction services for the Waterworks Building Stabilization Project. The project will involve the extensive stabilization of the historic waterworks building located at the corner of Gwinnett Street and Stiles Avenue.

The Waterworks building was built from 1891-1893, designed by Thomas T. Johnston in a Romanesque Revival style. Originally a steam-powered water pumping station, it provided clean water from artesian wells, helping prevent disease and supporting Savannah’s growth. In the 1920's the City began constructing electric motor pumping facilities around the Savannah area to increase capacity and ease of distribution. In the 1940's the Waterworks facility became obsolete as improvements in technology and the addition of gas-powered back-up pumps had negated its role. The City had also begun the construction of the I&D Water plant in the late 1940's. After the building was no longer in use for pumping water, the City used it for storing materials and equipment. Over time, the building has suffered from deterioration due to age and exposure to the elements. The masonry and roof are in need of a substantial stabilization effort, and the City formally began the process to facilitate those repairs in 2025.

This GMP includes the abatement of lead paint and asbestos-containing materials, removal of existing tanks, and repair or replacement of deteriorated structural components. Structural elements, including steel trusses, will be repaired and strengthened, while the roof and rooftop monitors will undergo metal panel replacement, and the tower will receive new roof framing and membrane. The scope also encompasses masonry restoration, including repointing of brick, terra cotta, and stone coping, replacement of damaged terra cotta reliefs, and removal and replacement of non-historic brick with historically appropriate materials. Additional work includes reinstating historic windows, sealing and infilling unsealed penetrations, replacing gutters, drainage systems, and sealants, and revising exterior site grades to provide better drainage around the building.

Garbutt Construction Company was approved by Council for CMAR Pre-construction Services associated with this project on October 9, 2025.

Approval