What was included in the land purchase for the new aquatic/twin pad arena project?
In total, the City purchased 25 acres of land at an average of $362,500 per acre. Included in this land purchase, the City received land with the following services:
- Lot cleared, graded, and clean fill brought in, ready to build on.
- City water service, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, service tie-ins.
- Road construction, sidewalks, curbs, and lighting.
- Relocation of power line previously running through property.
- Widening of Highway 3 and Marquis Road, adjacent to site.
- 2 Traffic light controlled intersections leading into property.
- 2 additional right-in/right-out intersections leading into property.
- Sask Energy, Sask Power, SaskTel and Shaw Cable leading to site.
- Approximately $1,000,000 in development levy fees will be returned to the City over next 3 years.
- Additional $45,000 per additional acre developed in “the yard” district will be returned to the City.
What was included in the R.M. of Prince Albert purchase of land for their new building and commercial development?
The R.M. of Prince Albert Administration have confirmed that their land purchase was for raw agricultural land only. Any additional work or services such as grading, site prep, servicing, etc. comes at a significant cost to the RM, which is above and beyond the initial purchase price. This land was also zoned for agricultural use at the time of purchase.
What are the subdivided parcels of land in “The Yard District” currently being sold for?
The “Yard District” is a private commercial development with lands for sale with asking prices in excess of $500,000 per acre.
When was this land purchase approved by City Council?
The purchase of the original 18 acres was approved at a public meeting of City Council on June 29, 2020. A subsequent purchase of an additional 7 acres of land was approved at a public meeting of City Council on May 20, 2021.
Did the City have this location in mind all along?
Yes, the location was identified in the funding application through the Canada Infrastructure Program. The vision for the facility was to make it an anchor for future complimentary developments such as hotels and restaurants to support residents and visitors using the facility for tournaments and family activities.
Saskatchewan Tourism estimates that on average a provincial sports event can result in approximately $115 spent per visitor, per day. This spending supports new and existing local businesses including restaurants, entertainment facilities, gas stations and hotels. These businesses in turn contribute property taxes which the City uses to support city amenities and services for residents.
No other location in Prince Albert provided the future development envisioned for this facility.
