A capital project slated for 35th Street in Battleford is proceeding to tender, but how much paving they can get done will depend on what bids they get back.
The project is paving on 35th Street from 2nd Ave. to 24th St. in Battleford. The issue is how much work can fit into the originally-budgeted $243,000 amount for capital projects in Battleford in 2020.
Based on latest numbers the town received Monday, $243,000 is now estimated to cover a shorter distance, up to around 28th Street.
Chief administrative officer John Enns-Wind told council the cost of doing the entire length to 24th St. was upwards of $400,000. This was based on an engineers’ estimate which included other costs such as engineering contingency fees and taxes.
Council ultimately made clear they were reluctant to go over budget to do the entire road, given the other uncertainties with COVID-19 impacts on the town.
“We should stick to budget on this just because we know our expense,” said councillor Kevin Russell.
“With all that’s going on the last few months we probably ought to stick to budget,” said coun. Shelley Boutin-Gervais.
“I think it’s too late to change gears as to changing location in what we are going to do. I think we need to get the tender out because our construction season’s a short season.”
Ultimately, what town council decided on Monday was to approve administration tendering for 35th Street from 2nd Ave. to 28th Street up to an amount of $243,000. If bids come in under that budgeted amount, Enns-Wind indicated the town will then determine whether the rest of the money can pay for any further paving work past 28th Street.
The indication from Enns-Wind was the tender notice would go out the day after the council meeting, on Tuesday.
