q-Plex: questions and quandaries

The federal government announced that they will be adding additional money to the fund to build the Quispamsis qPlex, citing increasing construction costs.

This announcement led me to think a bit more about the project, reinvigorating some previous concerns I had and adding some new ones.

First, I wonder if construction costs have increased since the initial budget was prepared. I would think with global prices for steel declining, that costs to build such a project would decrease.

Second, I wonder how a project can be built to LEED standards when it is replacing a wooded nature park area with built structures. Further, what technology will be used for ice making that is environmentally sustainable? If such technology exists should the rest of greater Saint John consider converting the rest of our arenas?

Third, I think the pool should be brought inside the complex so that the town can get more utility from it. I think an outdoor pool is great, but the cost to build, secure and maintain an outdoor pool must be pretty high when such a pool will only be used for three to four months of the year.

Fourth, I think Rothesay and Quispamsis have to work together on this and similar projects. It doesn’t make sense for two communities with similar demographics and a practically invisible border to be building facilities in silos – if Rothesay put money into this, I’m sure Quispamsis would respond by helping fund a new gymnasium, the recreation facility on Rothesay politicos’ wish lists.

Finally, I think a co-operative agreement must be reached between Saint John, Quispamsis and Rothesay to develop an “event-worthy” facility that is near enough amenities (such as hotels) that tournaments can be hosted (assuming that hosting is actually good for the communities, rather than just a point of pride).