Upgrades to the Vernon Recreation Complex have cost more than anticipated.
City council has approved an additional $118,749 for extra work required during the bridge, entrance and lobby renovation project.
“When you open up any old building, there are things you will encounter,” said Mayor Akbal Mund.
The original budget for the project was $1.3 million, with that money coming from the maintenance budget, reserves and a federal grant.
However, as the work proceeded, some deficiencies were discovered.
The bridge had to be replaced, as did a main water service line, a gas line and a storm line. Insufficient structural support was also found above two doorways and an electrical conduit had to be relocated.
The funds needed to pay for additional work came from savings within the recreation services budget.
Mund insists the upgrades to the recreation complex were necessary.
“Everyone would say it looks great,” he said.
Airport work takes flight
Improvements for the Vernon Regional Airport are moving ahead.
On Monday, city council provided early budget approval of $108,500 for the engineering of runway improvements, while $240,000 will go towards runway rehabilitation, relocation of visual guidance indicators and the construction of a turning button on the end of runway 23 for increased aircraft and service vehicle maneuverability and safety.
“They are overdue. This improvement will allow planes to land more frequently,” said Coun. Scott Anderson.
Support for the work was unanimous.
“It’s in the (airport master) plan and it’s all part of budgeted renovations,” said Coun. Bob Spiers.