A new sign at Tudhope Park will cost more than expected.
In December 2020, city council approved a $90,000 budget for a double-sided digital pylon sign, similar in style to the one at the Orillia Recreation Centre. After a request for proposals was issued, the city received two submissions, the lowest being $93,659, plus HST.
While negotiating with the contractor, it was indicated there was an increase in construction costs of 20 to 30 per cent.
Staff recently noted in a report the additional costs associated with the project include about $6,000 to prepare the site, remove the existing sign, upgrade electrical service and pour a concrete pad.
Staff also requested a 10 per cent contingency be created to cover any further increases that might arise.
Marcia Russell, the city’s manager of recreation services, said the additional costs can be found in the existing budget for the overall Tudhope Park improvement plan.
Coun. Tim Lauer asked if that would affect the “level of service” for other projects in the plan. Russell said that would not happen, that it would simply be a “reallocation” of funds.
Council approved staff’s request.
