Paradise issues first change order for new sports field

By Mark Squibb/November 25, 2021

Just about a week after turning sods on a new multi-sport field, the Town of Paradise has approved its first change order for the project.

Councillor Elizabeth Laurie explained that to capture the entire Diane Whalen Memorial Soccer Complex plans, staff, in conjunction with community groups, thought it would be prudent to complete a concept plan for what future and final plans of the entire complex will look like.

“This was actually not a part of the original RFP and contract; therefore a change order is required,” explained Laurie. “The contract will include a consultation with our stakeholders, and will review connectivity and foot traffic between our fields, vehicle traffic and parking, suggested signage placement, spectator viewing for all fields, and possible future storage areas and future road development, beautification, and accessibility, as well as possible location for a future building.”

The change order will cost $7,475, HST included.

Change orders of varying amounts are common on many municipal public works projects in the region.

“I think this is probably pretty positive,” said councilor Patrick Martin. “We’re going to get a whole concept plan of what the future area could look like. We’re thinking ahead before we even get to it, so I think it’s positive that staff went ahead and did this. I think it’s good, I think it could be an eye-opener for us to, with some future development.”

Mayor Dan Bobbett agreed it was nice to have a plan laid out before moving ahead with the project.

Construction of the new multi-sport turf began two weeks ago on November 9.

Council had ratified a June 22 e-mail decision to award the Dianne Whalen Multi Sport Turf Field contract to GTR Turf Inc./Shaw Sports at a cost of $2.5 million, HST Included, at the July 6 council meeting.

The original budget for the project was $1.9 million.