City council has approved a $1.9-million project to build a new pavilion and make other upgrades at Surerus Park, replacing the current temporary washrooms.
The pavilion is among several upgrades the city has scheduled for the park at 86 Street and 100 Avenue. It will include four individual restrooms, storage for various kinds of equipment, a second-storey staff area, and an event rental space.
City staff told council the $1.9-million contract was the lowest bid received.
“A new pavilion is required for Surerus Park as a result of the old washrooms being taken out of service,” staff wrote in their explanation for city councillors. “The current pavilion was closed in spring 2025 because the bathrooms no longer (met) public-use standards. Temporary washrooms were utilized throughout the summer.”
In an initial budget created by the parties, around $1.7 million was allotted for construction, which came in $232,500 over budget. The pavilion is expected to be ready next September.
According to staff, the contractor said it could be ready for June, but it would cost an additional $205,000, so staff opted against it.
This new structure will be where the playground with wooden structures once stood near the baseball diamonds in the park.
A replacement play area is in the works, and city staff said they are reviewing four potential design options. Currently, they said they are asking schools for feedback on the structures and layout. The new area is planned to be located between the current building and the tennis courts and old playground equipment can no longer be used safely and will be recycled or salvaged.
Other improvements under consideration include paving the parking lot with lighting, adding four new pickleball courts with sunshades and windscreens, and building a new basketball court.
Fort St John city council approved the upgrades to the park last year.
