DUNMORE, AB – Cypress County Council has directed Administration to move forward with preparing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the design-build of a proposed recreation centre in Dunmore.

Council has established a global project budget of $65 million, with funding anticipated to come from a combination of municipal reserves, debentures, grants and sponsorship opportunities.

The proposed facility concept may include twin sheets of ice and up to six sheets of curling ice, along with supporting spaces and amenities. Through the RFP process, Council will be able to further evaluate design options, project costs and the scope of the facility within the approved global budget.

“Council recognizes that a project of this scale is a significant investment in the future of Cypress County,” said Mayor Dan Hamilton. “Moving to the RFP stage will give us the information we need to better understand what can be delivered within the $65 million budget while ensuring we continue to make responsible financial decisions on behalf of our residents.”

The direction follows preliminary planning and community engagement undertaken by the County. Feedback received through the recent recreation facility survey was positive overall, demonstrating community interest and support for enhanced recreation opportunities in the region.

The proposed Dunmore Junction location provides an opportunity to develop a modern regional recreation facility that supports residents, families, community organizations and user groups while contributing to the continued growth of the area.

Council’s direction to prepare the RFP does not represent final approval of the facility’s design or full scope. Responses received through the competitive procurement process will provide Council with additional information on design, construction costs and available options before further decisions are made.

Cypress County will continue to pursue available provincial and federal grant opportunities, partnerships and sponsorships to help offset the municipal contribution to the project, with the intent of moving the project forward without increasing residential property taxes.

Further information will be shared as the RFP process progresses and additional decisions are made by Council.

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For more information or to request an interview, contact Sean Rooney, Cypress County Communications Coordinator at sean.rooney@cypress.ab.ca or call 403-526-2888.