Preliminary work on downtown Warren's new 658-space parking garage could begin in less than a week.

On Wednesday, city officials opened bids from financial institution to provide up to $6 million in interim financing for the parking garage, which will be stretch along the north side of Clark St. from Liberty St. to near the rear of the Times Observer building.

City Manager Ken Dupont said six bids were received for the interim financing and are under review by Dupont, solicitor Greg Hammond and an attorney acting in a an advisory capacity.

"There are quite a few variables" in the six proposals, said Dupont.

Before a decision is made on which of the six proposals in most advantageous to the city, Dupont said, "We have to look at the alternatives people have provided."

Dupont said he hopes a recommendation on which of the proposals to accept will be made to Warren City Council at its next meeting, Sept. 13.

The interim financing is needed until the city actually receives the money the state has promised to pay for the garage. Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell has earmarked $7.95 million from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program for the parking garage and other elements of the Warren's downtown and riverfront revitalization project.

The state money, said Dupont, is "promised but not here."

Dupont said the full $6 million in interim financing may not be needed.

"We asked for up to six million dollars," said Dupont. "We can draw down as we need to pay contractors."

Dupont said he talked to the general contractor (Perry Construction) for the parking garage earlier this week.

"He's planning on getting some things started next Thursday (Sept. 9)," said Dupont.
The first step in the process, said Dupont, will be laying out the "footprint" of the parking facility, which will be constructed primarily of steel.

Before winter weather arrives, said Dupont, the contractor "is hoping to get as much in as he can."

The garage is a key component of "Impact Warren," replacing the parking lost to new construction related to riverfront reviatalization at the "Island" parking lot. The garage will also provide parking for employees of Northwest Savings new corporate headquarters and a proposed riverfront motel and small convcention center on Clark St. Three new housing projects in downtown Warren will also increase the need for parking.

Spaces in the five-story garage will be leased by the month at a projected rate of $35.