Skip to content

Inflation boosts cost of proposed Innisfail aquatic centre

Estimated cost increased by $4 million to $28 million
32268320_web1_230328-rda-innisfail-aquatics-pool_2

Soaring inflation has boosted the potential price tag by $4 million for a proposed aquatic centre in Innisfail.

Originally, $24 million was budgeted for the facility, but a recent report to council estimates the 22,600 square-foot facility will cost $28.3 million. The increase includes $2.1 million to cover potential risks, including coming national energy code changes.

“The escalation that the market has experienced between 2021-2023 has been the worst escalation period since the 1980s which has drastically impacted the cost of construction,” says a validation report, which went before town council at its March 20 Agenda and Priorities Meeting. “The aquatics sector has been particularly impacted as large quantities of commodities and specialized equipment are required.”

Innisfail’s facility would include a six-lane lap pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna, multi-purpose room and other spaces. It will also include a retractable pool obstacle course called NinjaCross.

Other features include a 114-kilowatt solar power system on the roof, high-efficiency pool and mechanical systems and a high-performance building envelope. It would be built next to the town’s twin arenas.

The estimated cost is based on detailed design starting in October with construction beginning in spring 2024 for a November 2025 completion.

In light of the “rapid and unpredictable escalation in costs” the construction industry has seen in recent years, the design team undertook a high-level costing exercise before starting design, says the report. Consultants also looked at the new Drayton Valley Aquatic Centre to use for comparison.

Mayor Jean Barclay expected the NinjaCross amenity be to be a big hit.

“I know in Edmonton there’s a big NinjaCross facility and it’s crazy busy with kids because it’s so much fun. I love the idea.”

Coun. Cindy Messaros liked what the consultants had come up with.

“I think the design looks beautiful. It’s very exciting. I can’t wait to get started and make some decisions about it.”

The validation report is expected to come back to council next month. It will debated and a decision made on whether to move the project forward.



News tips

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter