Inflation, construction costs, accessibility, and sustainability requirements have ramped up the expected price tag of Saskatoon’s future east side leisure centre.

In 2023, the cost of the centre was slated to be around $65 million. Now, outlined in four options provided by City Administration, the centre could cost anywhere between $95 million and $107 million, depending on the scope of the project and who operates it.

Option 2, which Administration is recommending, would see the City advance the project under the original scope and schedule while simultaneously engaging with the YMCA to develop a pre-design operating agreement. This would cost between $102.7 million and $107.7 million, and also extend the completion date by an additional 6 – 12 months.

Other options are on the table, such as Option 3, which includes decreasing the scope and would cost the City the original $65 million.

Through the Major Capital Funding Plan, $65 million has already been approved and funded by ICIP and borrowing. If a pricier option is approved, Administration would update the plan for the additional $30 million by adding $15 million from future Neighborhood Land Development Fund profits and increasing total borrowing from about $56.4 million to $73.4 million, a $17 million increase, without requiring additional operating budget impacts due to existing financial flexibility.

The matter will be presented to City Council at Wednesday’s(wed) meeting.