The planned recreation complex will occupy this land between Highway 3 and Marquis Road. (Alison Sandstrom/paNOW Staff)

By Alison Sandstrom

Hot topic

P.A. Construction Association throws support behind new rec centre development

Oct 29, 2020 | 5:27 PM

Days after an anonymous group accused Prince Albert city council of overpaying on a land deal for the city’s new multi-million dollar recreation complex, the Prince Albert Construction Association is speaking out in favour of the project.

In June, the city agreed to buy the 16 acre parcel from Signature Development Group for $6.5 million in a decision that split councillors 5-4. The company still owns the surrounding land and plans to develop an entertainment district that will grow in tandem with the rec centre.

“Our association extends its full support of the project, based on the substantial social and economic benefits for Prince Albert and its residents,” Ryan Court, chair of the P.A. Construction Association said in a media release.

In an interview with paNOW, Court said the potential for job creation was huge.

“Not only with the rinks, but with the potential of hotels and restaurants and stores that will go into this development as well,” he continued.

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Asked about whether the timing of the public endorsement was in response to recent controversy over the project, Court said there had definitely been some negative public perception.

“We, as an association, decided to release this letter, to let everyone know that we were excited about [the project],” he said, adding he believes the city did its due diligence and followed proper protocol.

The city plans to break ground on the $60 million recreation centre next fall and have it open to the public by fall of 2023. The federal and provincial governments will contribute $44 million, with the remaining $16 million being funded by the City of Prince Albert.

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alison.sandstrom@jpbg.ca

@alisandstrom