A request for proposals to build a new arena and events centre in the city could be ready a few months earlier than planned, Mayor Brian Bigger said Wednesday.
Speaking at a news conference at Tom Davies Square where the city received $19.5 million over the next three years for infrastructure projects, Bigger said the RFP could be ready in March, rather than June.
"I'm sure it's doable,” he said. “There is a motion being brought forward at our next council meeting -- I believe it's on Sept. 13 -- to consider shortening that timeline.
“I just absolutely want to make sure that we have the full information to make a decision."
The city has approved as much as $275,000 to hire a consulting firm to first help develop the criteria for the RFP, as well as to finalize the document.
"We're making a decision that will have an impact for, in Sudbury Arena's case, the next 65 years,” Bigger said. “So that's why we're hiring experts and that's why we need to take whatever time it takes."
The mayor's comments come day after the new owner of the Sudbury Wolves urged city council to move as fast as possible in deciding where and when a new arena will be built.
Dario Zulich talked Tuesday about the stars being aligned to get government support for the project, with both the provincial and federal Liberals planning major infrastructure spending and asking cities to put forward shovel-ready projects.
"But they will not stay aligned forever,” Zulich said. “Timing is critical. This community could use a boost to the local economy. We shouldn't allow events such as major concerts and family shows and sporting events to bypass us (in favour of) newer buildings in other cities."
While wanting to move as quickly as possible, Bigger said that getting all the information they need and ensuring a fair process is their top priority.
"But we'll be dealing, as a council, with the suggestion that perhaps we can shorten the timeline to March,” he said. “I'm sure that any of the proponents that would bid on the proposal, we want to make sure they have enough time to put in proper bids. That's very key to us -- to make sure there is a competitive bidding process, which we do follow any significant procurement at the city of Sudbury."
