Dig deeper, sports asked

Photo: Kevin Rothwell

Sports groups planning on using the new Greater Vernon Athletic Facility at Okanagan College will be asked to dig deeper to finish the project .

The running track and sports field is already facing an $800,000 cost overrun on a $7.5-million budget.

“The Vernon Minor Football Association has already ponied up $16,000 for the football uprights, and Vernon soccer associations will be asked to help with $8,000 for soccer nets,” said Bob Fleming, construction committee chairman.

“Track and running clubs will be approached to acquire hurdles,” he added.

Team showers have already been cut from the budget, which saved hundreds of thousands of dollars. Equipment to manage the artificial turf was also sourced for $50,000 less than budgeted.

“Unfortunately, the cost savings were eaten up by cost overruns in other areas, and if we want a finished product, we have to move ahead. There is $65,000 in a contingency fund, and it's possible some or all of it will have to be used,” said Fleming

“Every opportunity for sponsorship is being approached,” said Fleming.

A request for proposals for the naming rights of the field is being prepared. Donation plaques on bleachers and signage sponsorship are also being investigated by the committee.

The facility is scheduled to open in late June.