Peachland’s Pickleball Project Faces Financial Hurdles: Plans to construct four outdoor pickleball courts in Peachland’s Lambly Park are running into budgetary obstacles, potentially requiring the project to be scaled back. Earlier this year, the council allocated $200,000 for the courts, but recent developments indicate the costs could far exceed that amount.
Rising Costs Force Reconsideration
Community Services Director Cory Labrecque informed the council that consultants now estimate the project could cost upwards of $315,000. To safeguard against unforeseen expenses, an additional 30% contingency fee has been factored into this new estimate.
- The original budget of $200,000 may not cover the full scope of the project.
- Consultants have advised an updated estimate of $315,000, which includes a contingency allowance.
Community’s Efforts to Secure Funding
The local pickleball society is actively working to secure additional funding through grants, but as of the latest update, no extra funds have been confirmed. Council members acknowledged the society’s efforts but recognized the financial gap remains.
- The Pickleball Society is pursuing grants, but no funding has been secured yet.
- The project depends on successful external funding to cover cost overruns.
Council’s Next Steps: Request for Proposals
In response to the growing uncertainty surrounding costs, Mayor Patrick Van Minsel encouraged the council to move forward with issuing a request for proposals (RFP). This would allow the town to obtain more accurate pricing for the construction of the courts. The process does not obligate the town to commit financially but would provide clarity on what the project will ultimately cost.
- A request for proposals will help determine the actual cost of the project.
- Mayor Van Minsel emphasized that proceeding with the RFP would not lock the council into any commitment.
Coun. Terry Condon further clarified that the RFP would only give the council pricing options, not an official green light for the full project.
Location of the Courts Still Under Review
While Lambly Park has been proposed as the location for the courts, the council has directed staff to reconsider whether it remains the best choice. Lambly Park’s location along Highway 97 raises potential concerns about noise and accessibility, which could affect the long-term viability of the facility.
- The suitability of Lambly Park is still under review.
- Concerns about noise and accessibility are prompting the council to reassess the park as a location.
Timeline for Construction
If this pickleball project moves forward, construction is not expected to begin until late spring or early summer at the earliest. Community Services Director Labrecque emphasized that the timeline remains tentative, contingent on securing additional funding and finalizing plans.
- Construction is likely to start in late spring or summer, depending on funding and approvals.
Budget Limits and Council’s Stance
Administrator Joe Creron reiterated that the council has only allocated $200,000 for this pickleball project, meaning the scope would need to be adjusted if costs exceed this amount. If the final estimates suggest the project can only afford one court, the council will revisit the matter.
- The council has committed to a $200,000 budget and will scale back if necessary.
- If the cost estimate exceeds the budget, the council may opt to build only one court.
Public Opinion on Pickleball
Recent survey results indicate that pickleball is not a top priority for Peachland residents. The findings of the municipal survey will be discussed at the next council meeting, where councilors will review community feedback before making a final decision.
- A municipal survey shows that pickleball is not a high priority for residents.
- The council will analyze the survey at the next meeting to gauge public opinion.
News in Brief: Peachland’s Pickleball Project Faces Financial Hurdles
Peachland’s plans to build four pickleball courts in Lambly Park face rising costs, with an updated estimate of $315,000. The council is considering issuing a request for proposals to determine the true cost. While the local pickleball society seeks additional funding, no grants have been secured. A municipal survey showed that pickleball is not a high priority for residents, and the suitability of Lambly Park as the location is under review.
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