CSRD awards contract for Scotch Creek water system expansion

Photo: CSRD

A structure will be added to Scotch Creek Wharf Road community park to house water treatment infrastructure for the expanded Scotch Creek Water System.

The road to expansion of the Scotch Creek water system had its share of speed bumps, but is back on track.

With the conclusion of a public assent process and request for proposals, construction is scheduled to begin in the spring.

The Columbia Shuswap Regional District had sought grant funding for the project, but its first application was denied in 2019, and a scaled-back application was resubmitted in 2020.

It took until December 2021 for the federal and provincial governments to award funding.

"The unusually long decision process, coupled with cost escalations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain issues, caused concerns with cost overruns. When no additional grant money was forthcoming, the CSRD decided to use an alternate approach to tendering the project," the regional district says.

The negotiated RFP process involved the CSRD, engineering consultant and contractor working together to ensure the project fit the required budget. Mountainside Earthworks was the low bidder for the contract.

"It was a very worthwhile experience that will result in cost savings," CSRD manager of operations Darcy Mooney said.

CSRD directors approved third reading of bylaws to establish the new Scotch Creek Water System Service Area and authorize a loan for the remaining costs not covered by the grant – which was agreed to in a petition process that concluded Sept. 29.

The contract was awarded at a cost not to exceed $2.8 million.

Currently, work is underway on surveys, archeological assessments and geotechnical requirements needed to complete detailed design plans.

A structure to house water treatment infrastructure will be added to Scotch Creek Wharf Road community park, but won't significantly impact park space.