Title
Funding Request - Township Road 531A (114 Avenue) Widening
Proposed Motion
That Council approve $200,000 of funding from Long Term Sustainability Restricted Surplus for the Township Road 531A (114 Avenue) widening project.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motion, as presented. Due to delays in acquiring the right of way and changes in the original cost estimate a new debit borrowing bylaw is required.
Purpose
Council initially approved debt financing for this project, anticipating that design and construction would begin within a year of budget approval. However, delays in securing the right of way and changes to the original cost estimate have made a new borrowing bylaw necessary. As a result, approval of a new funding source is required to cover the costs associated with the work completed to date.
Summary
This project was initially funded under the 2022–2025 Capital Infrastructure Program, with design work commencing in 2023. Throughout the design process, a series of reviews and revisions revealed that a small portion of additional right-of-way is required to complete the project. Although the area needed is minimal, it affects the front parking lot of a local business.
Efforts to negotiate a purchase price for the required right-of-way have proven difficult, and despite numerous attempts, Administration has been unable to reach an agreement. As a result, expropriation is now necessary to move the project forward. This step is critical to ensure the project's completion, which will significantly enhance safety in the area.
The delay in acquiring the right-of-way has impacted the construction timeline and changes to the original cost estimate have made a new borrowing bylaw necessary. To date, approximately $200,000 has been spent on design work and efforts to secure the necessary land. Administration will incorporate the remaining scope of work for this project in the proposed 2026 Capital Budget and will also present a new borrowing bylaw for Council’s consideration and approval.
Therefore, Administration is requesting that Council authorize funding of $200,000 from Long Term Sustainability Restricted Surplus to fund expenditures incurred to date on this project.
Historical Information:
Report to Council outlining Borrowing Bylaw BL22-018
Bylaw 2022-05 Township Road 531A (114 Avenue) Widening Infrastructure Borrowing Bylaw
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
Pillar A - Complete Communities - To ensure the County infrastructure meets the needs of residents, businesses, and industry
Pillar B - Strategic Economic Diversification - To explore strategies that encourage new businesses to locate in Parkland County, with strategic emphasis on Acheson and the Wabamun area.
Financial Impact:
Cost: $200,000
Source of Funding: Restricted Surplus