Pickleball courts still over budget – but approved by council
Courts at Marden, Rockwood parks to cost close to $800,000
BRUCEDALE – The proposed pickleball courts for both Marden and Rockmosa parks returned to council on Monday – and they’re still over budget.
The original budget for the project was $562,000 for the courts and a multi-use pad. However, during a June 8 meeting, council was presented with a tender for $1,243,809 excluding HST.
Parks and facilities manager Jeff Myer presented updated tender results to council on June 22 after he was directed to enter negotiations with the lowest bidding company, Bomar Landscaping.
Following negotiations, Myer told council the cost of the work is now anticipated at about $793,000 excluding HST, to be funded through the Dolime and Rockwood Hydro reserves.
The first proposal included added amenities such as shade buildings, extended pathways, fencing and landscaping. The new, lower cost is a result of reduced amenities as well as deferral of the multi-use pad.
Councillors again expressed concerns about the price tag, but agreed the project is a necessary investment for the community due to the popularity of the sport. They unanimously approved the updated cost estimate.
Myers told council the courts will be constructed this year and he wants “shovels in the ground” as soon as possible.
