The tender for the construction of the Aquatics and Wellness Multiplex closed Thursday with one bidder.

Wright Construction Western Inc. of Saskatoon submitted a bid of $104,273,000 for the facility. It will be part of the Community Knowledge Campus and connect to the Coca-Cola Centre, the Gymniks building and St. Joseph High School at 68th Ave. and Wapiti Road.

“We are awaiting further details today for a specific breakdown of projected costs on various components of the building,” says Community Development Co-ordinator Felix Seiler. “We will see how these compare with our estimates.”

City Council serves as the steering committee for the project.

“We will consider the tender in relation to our budget and discuss what options we have for completing the multiplex,” says Mayor Dwight Logan. “This venue will serve regional aquatics and recreation needs while providing another jewel in our crown of attractions. Now we will look at how to best achieve that.”

Construction on the facility is due to begin this fall. It is expected to take up to 32 months to complete. The cost had been pegged in the $90-million range.

“We know from the display we had at Prairie Mall on Saturday and earlier feedback that there is great excitement and anticipation for this facility in the community and the tender gives us figures to work with,” says Seiler.