UPDATE:
It may cost the City of North Bay at least $70 million to build the proposed community and recreation centre.
The tender process closed at one o’clock this afternoon.
Three companies, all from southern Ontario, submitted unofficial bids and JR Certus Construction Company, out of Vaughan, was the lowest at $70.8 million.
The project was previously estimated to cost about $52 million with $25.7 million coming from the federal government.
Council approved going to tender by a 6-5 vote in mid-February.
City officials say all bids were more than $20 million over the cost estimation, which was prepared by a third party.
Officials add staff will be exploring options for council’s consideration, including changes to the project. An update will be provided once next steps have been determined.
