Selkirk residence re-vamp a go
By Contributor
Selkirk College is pleased to announce that the design–build services contract for the renovation of the Tenth Street student residence in Nelson has been awarded to Wildstone Construction and Engineering.
This is the end of a two-phased tendering process which began in January of this year. Phase one involved the selection of three companies deemed to be the most qualified from a very impressive list of fourteen submissions. The successful applicants were then requested to submit full proposals for completion of the project.
Because Selkirk chose to go with a design-build approach, it was necessary for all bidders to come forward with a team of firms capable of delivering complete design and construction services within a single contract.
The all-BC team pulled together by Wildstone for this project includes electrical contractor, Kootenay Lake Electric of Nelson, and the mechanical engineering firm of Venture Mechanical Services of Castlegar. Other key team members include Bunting Coady Architects and Aerius Engineering, both of Kelowna.
Wildstone, which is headquartered in Penticton, brings extensive experience with design-build projects, a history of working with clients and projects similar in nature to Selkirk College and the residence renovation, an understanding of working with projects being completed to LEED certification standards, as well as a familiarity with the area and the ability to engage the local workforce.
When asked about the company’s approach to local content, Wildstone Project Manager Grant Rae stated “Our philosophy is to operate with a ‘site specific’ focus. In other words, local trades, labourers and suppliers get first crack at providing services and materials. If cost and quality are competitive, Wildstone goes local”.
Mr. Rae went on to state that, at the peak of the project, there will be days when there are 40 to 50 workers on the site. The vast majority, if not all, will be local.
Work inside the residence is expected to begin by mid April. In the meantime, the installation of geothermal technology is well under way in a field adjacent to the residence with an expected completion date for early April.
Those interested in gaining employment on the work site should watch for the announcement of a Wildstone job fair to be held in the next couple of weeks. Those seeking employment are also invited to visit www.wildstone.com/career_form.php to complete an application form.
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