It’s a big project that will require some big dollars to move it from the concept phase to construction.
A joint meeting last night (Wednesday) between Grand Forks park… city…and consultants to talk about the feasibility of building a new aquatics center and indoor turf complex.
Consultants reviewed several sites for both facilities before recommending a 10 lane pool adjacent to Choice Health and Fitness. A 208,000 square foot turf building would sit on land south of the Alerus Center.
The cost of the two amenities – based on a 2025 construction date – is estimated at some $140 million dollars. Grand Forks Mayor Brandon Bochenski says it’s a big number. “We can have all the wants in the world but if we can’t figure out a way to fund it…it doesn’t really matter.”
Consultants say a public survey found 79% of respondents would probably or definitely support extending an Alerus Center sales tax to help fund construction. That could result in an investment of $50 to $80 million dollars. City Council President Dana Sande says that still leaves a huge gap. “Not only is the entire community going to have to vote to extend the sales tax…everyone will have to reach into their own pocket to come up with some cash to help build the facilities. We haven’t even talked about operational costs.”
The consultants will continue to work on data ranging from economic impact to operational costs prior to a March meeting.
Mayor Bochechski:
President Sande:
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