The estimates to build a washroom and bus terminal facility downtown have come in more than double the initial budget.
Brian MacDonald, director of public works and engineering for the town of Collingwood asked the Development and Operations Standing Committee at a meeting April 23 to increase the pre-existing $225,000 budget by another $250,000 and suggested using Federal Gas Tax funds to cover the extra costs.
The washroom facility and terminal is a response to the local transit system’s growth recently with the Wasaga Beach and Blue Mountain links. The design and construction of the terminal was approved in the 2017 budget process. However, staff have come back to request the budget for the project be increased.
The terminal will be located at the corner of Pine and Second Street in the municipal parking lot. The building will occupy a spot about 56 square meters, and will include a waiting area, two washrooms, a water bottle filling station, a janitor’s closet and a mechanics room.
Due to the location, the facility is also required to match the heritage specifications for the area.
In response to the request for proposal, the town received five qualifying bids, the lowest of which was $457,000 plus HST, which was submitted by W. E. Marshall Construction.
MacDonald attributed the higher cost to several aspects of the project. The building must be fully accessible, it will include vandal-resistant panels and the construction materials will meet the heritage guidelines on the exterior of the building.
The interior of the building will also include commercial grade floors, walls, windows and doors throughout.
MacDonald said it will take about a month after the budget is approved before crews will start work on the project.
The standing committee approved the budget increase using Federal Gas Tax money. Council will have final say on the matter at its meeting April 30.
