The City of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan has shortlisted three general contractors in the pre-qualification stage of the tender for construction of the City’s new Aquatic and Arena’s Recreation Centre. The three shortlisted companies are Graham Construction, PCL Construction, and Wright Construction. All firms have extensive experience in construction projects of this scale and specifically with recreation projects.
The prequalification process is used to give companies an opportunity to demonstrate their qualifications to complete a project of this size, complexity and cost.
“It’s good to see we have a group of highly qualified and reputable companies interested. Choosing a qualified contractor is a critical part of this project,” said Wes Hicks, director of public works for the City of Prince Albert. “There’s always going to be some challenges with a project this size, but an experienced contractor has an understanding of the timelines, costs, supply of materials, access to manpower and equipment and the proper insurance and bonding. In the long run this helps us avoid costly interruptions.”
There are 366 drawings and 1,617 pages of specifications prepared by the architects that cover elements of architectural, civil, landscaping, structural, mechanical, and electrical and controls for the facility. City Administration completed a 85 per cent review of the drawings in early February with comments regarding municipal bylaw and building code requirements, operational and maintenance considerations and engineering design and product selection. A 95 per cent review was completed in March.
With the drawings and specifications ready, the next step in the process will be the submission of comments from the general contractors on the drawings.
“Given supply chain issues these days, we are inviting the contractors to share with us any issues they see with the materials chosen for the facility,” said Hicks. “We’d like to be sure this is given that consideration early so it’s considered in the final tender prices.”
Final pricing and tender packages from the shortlisted companies are expected in April with the Architects providing a final review, summary and recommendation to City Council. Construction is expected to start this spring with the facility opening in 2024. Local businesses will be engaged as subcontractors for the project.
Featured image: The detailed design of the Prince Albert Aquatic and Arenas Recreation Centre has reached 95 per cent completion. (City of Prince Albert)
