Lloydminster city council has approved a major downtown construction project, with work expected to begin this spring and continue into the fall.
The Central Business District Replacement Program Phase 1B was awarded to ASL Paving Ltd. for just under $2.9 million, with an additional 15 per cent contingency approved to account for unknowns and potential schedule incentives.
The project will see a full reconstruction of 50 Street between 50 Avenue and 51 Avenue, including underground infrastructure, sidewalks, and streetscape improvements.
While the project passed unanimously, council discussion made it clear there are still concerns around timelines, communication, and how the work will impact local businesses.
Balancing speed and disruption
A key feature of the project is the use of “site occupancy days,” a system designed to incentivize contractors to finish work faster by offering bonuses for early completion and penalties for delays.
Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson said the approach comes with both benefits and risk.
“This is a little bit of a risk and reward type of situation in my mind, which I think is a good thing,” Gustafson said.
Administration confirmed the system has been used before, though bonuses have rarely been paid, meaning projects typically finish on time or result in penalties.
Coun. Alex Taylor, however, raised concerns about how timelines will be perceived by the public, especially after frustrations during previous downtown work.
“I think this is going to be a huge communication battle,” Taylor said.
“We saw it all through social media where you have residents going, ‘Why isn’t it working? It’s a beautiful day.’”
City officials acknowledged those concerns, noting weather delays, safety requirements, and material logistics can all impact visible progress on any given day.
Communication lessons from past projects
Administration said efforts are already underway to improve communication with businesses and residents ahead of construction.
That includes early engagement, regular updates, and a commitment to weekly progress reports once work begins.
“We started our communication back in last November,” administration told council, outlining ongoing meetings with affected business owners.
Updates during construction will include what has been completed, what is coming next, and any expected disruptions.
Coun. Gustafson also pressed for clarity on how those updates will be shared publicly.
“What is the way you’re communicating… not only with the business owners, but also with the wider public?” she asked.
Administration confirmed updates will be shared both directly with stakeholders and through city communication channels.
Concerns over contingency and transparency
The project also includes a contingency allowance of more than $430,000, which drew questions from council about transparency and reporting.
Taylor said residents will want to understand exactly how that money is used if costs increase.
“I think a breakdown… would be really much appreciated,” he said.
“I don’t disagree with contingency, but we need to see where that money goes.”
Administration noted contingencies are commonly used in projects involving older infrastructure, particularly in the downtown core where underground conditions can be unpredictable.
Why the work is needed
City officials said the project is necessary due to aging infrastructure, with some underground systems dating back decades.
The work is also part of a broader downtown revitalization effort aimed at improving both function and appearance in the city’s core.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026 and be completed by late October, weather permitting.
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