Saskatoon central library project delayed after construction bids exceed budget

The project to replace Saskatoon’s central library hit a major bump late last month, and the opening will likely be pushed back to 2027.

In a statement, the Saskatoon Public Library (SPL) said construction bids received in late August were “substantially higher” than the project’s budget allowed. As a result, the tender has been cancelled and the library is delaying the project while taking a new approach.

The project’s website says the total budget for the replacement project is $134 million, including all costs.

The SPL said the next steps include issuing a request for proposals for construction management services.

“This approach will result in a construction manager working alongside the design and engineering teams to provide pre-construction services, helping to identify efficiencies and cost savings through changes to the design,” the SPL said in the statement.

Exterior design of the new central library in Saskatoon. (Saskatoon Public Library)

“The extent of the design changes required will not be known until early 2024 and SPL will not be requesting additional borrowing approval from the city at this time.”

The SPL said five independent cost estimates were completed between 2021 and this year “showing the project was on budget,” but the construction bids still ended up being much higher than cost estimates.

Construction was slated to begin this fall, but the issue with the tender means shovels will not likely go into the ground until 2027, “with the specific date dependent on the extent of design changes required.”

Adding another hiccup is the fact the current central library has been sold, with the deal going into effect in December of 2026, just before construction of the new building is expected to begin.

Jim Siemens, the SPL’s board chair, said the situation is disappointing, but only represents a temporary setback.

“We firmly believe that Saskatoon needs a new central library and we remain committed to delivering a building that supports the lifelong learning needs of our community,” Siemens said in a statement.

“It will just take us a little longer to get there.”