The cost of renovations to the aging Victoria Road Recreation Centre has gone up $2.5 million.
The project, which includes extensive renovations and expansion at the east end facility, will now cost $15.1 million.
Guelph City Council approved the budget increase on Monday night by a 13-0 vote.
"Through the detailed design process, a number of issues have been identified that have brought the cost of this renovation over the initial project budget," said the staff report asking for the increased funds.
The report called the renovations to the 41-year-old rec centre a move that takes "an aging and outdated recreation centre to an updated, more inclusive and accessible facility."
Renovations expected to get underway in early April cover everything from sewer and lighting upgrades to a new pool insert and front entrance.
The entire rec centre will be closed from April 4 to Sept. 30, then the ice surface will be made available to minor hockey while the rest of the facility remains closed until a scheduled full opening in June 2017.
City staff said the extra $2.5 million will be funded through three areas: $1.55 million from the Baker Street redevelopment reserve, $466,000 from recreational development charges and $500,000 from the city-wide parkland dedication reserve fund.
Staff told city council that delaying the project until the next round of budget discussions could increase the overall cost of the project because of the aging nature of the facility.
Staff also wants to get shovels in the ground as soon as possible in order to be able to keep the hockey rink open for practises for minor hockey next season.
Melloul-Blamey Construction Inc. was the successful bidder in the tender process that saw seven bids.
One thing that will disappear from the rec centre is the fitness room. Meeting accessibility requirements and limited space led to its demise.
