Save for a few minor touch-ups, the expansion at the Armstrong Spallumcheen fire hall is complete.
And over budget.
The approved budget for the project was $1,924,130. Actual estimated costs are $2,091,981 which equals an overage of 8.7 per cent on the project, or about $172,000.
“There are a lot of work orders when you do an addition as opposed to a brand new building,” said Armstrong Mayor Chris Pieper.
A couple of the major issues resulting in the cost overrun included an upgrade to the load-bearing masonary walls, a relocated storm line, a new water service connection, new sanitary lines, additional paving (which was not in original budget) and electrical lighting.
Pieper sits on the Armstrong Spallumcheen Fire Commission, and said the commission was kept abreast of the changes during the construction.
“We now have a great building that’s 99 and three-quarters complete,” said Pieper.
The additional touch-ups include some outdoor painting, which will happen in the spring.
The Township of Spallumcheen is responsible for 60 per cent of the overage, which amounts to $103,200. The city’s share is 40 per cent or $68,800.
Spallumcheen Councillors Christine Fraser and Todd York believe the money is well spent.
“It looks really nice,” said Fraser of the expansion. “The guys are super happy with it. It’s a facility geared for the next 15-to-20 years. We’ve spent the money now and it’s well worth it.”
“It’s a highly functional facility,” added York. “It will be the centre of community pride.”
A public open house, including a barbecue, will be held at the fire hall in April.