By Geoff Smith (@GeoffSmithLNN on Twitter)

Aquatic portion behind, but ATB Centre still on target for spring open

Dec 18, 2018 | 11:07 AM

LETHBRIDGE – The city says construction on Phase Two of the ATB Centre is still on target for a spring opening, even though work on the aquatic portion has fallen behind.

“Construction is difficult to predict. We are still right on target for spring of 2019 and I think that everything is as planned,” project coordinator Ashley Matthews said in an interview. “We fall behind in one area, and catch up a little further in another area, and it goes back and forth type of thing.”

He said the waterslides are in and some finishing work is being performed in the pool areas, with tile going in for the deck. Elsewhere, the gymnasium flooring is down and the lines are in.

Matthews said while at one time the city hoped the building would be complete by the end of December, he said it will likely be another month, with the aquatic area still needing the most work. By February, into March, he expects the YMCA, which will operate the facility, will be able to start installing equipment and furnishings.

Staff training will not take place until all of the systems have been tested, he added.

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“We’re satisfied with the progress that Stuart Olson, our general contractor, is making,” Matthews explained. “They’re doing a fantastic job, really. So, it’s just the final stage right now as far as getting everything completed and all the finishing work, which always takes a little longer than what you had hoped. But that’s where we are right now and we’re happy with where we are as far as the schedule is concerned.”

He also said it’s on budget, despite the variables that come with a $110 million project.