New K-9 school delays

Sharon McLeay
Times Contributor

 

There have been some delays in the construction of the K-9 school and regional recreational facility since its ground breaking on Oct. 18, but that may mean good news for those funding the project.
“Since that time there has been a number of meetings with regard to looking at approval processes with Alberta Education and Alberta Infrastructure, as far as the design of the school,” said Project Lead Mark Brown, who presented the update at the Dec. 7 Strathmore town council meeting.
The schematic designs have been approved, and now mechanical, electrical and structural designs are being developed, prior to the project tendering process. Tenders are expected to go out in January 2017 and the hope is that work can begin in the spring of 2017, with completion set for 2018.
Some of the innovations in the project are value engineering, waste elimination and efficiency measures that will also increase value for money spent.
Brown said the delay of work starting in spring will also mean some savings, as construction in winter conditions is more costly.
“It looks like we will have a greater certainty on the town’s budget and commitments, because we will know what the total project will cost, as it will be happening in the spring,” said Brown.
The sponsorship committee is looking for fundraising strategies for some of the unfunded components of the complex and they will work with the school division for approvals on initiatives selected. They are considering the hiring a consultant, who would work with in-house staff to secure money that goes along with naming rights, marketing and sponsorship assets that accompany events held in recreation facilities.