PAC – Construction going well, costs are in good shape, City council told

Work on the new Kamloops performing arts centre is coming along just fine, and costs are in good shape, City council was told today (Sept. 1. 2026).

Matt Kachel, the City’s infrastructure delivery divisional manager, told council the project’s highest-risk early construction work, including excavation and shoring, are nearing completion.

“The project’s risk register is currently forecasted to be approximately $5 million under budget, reflecting favourable tender results and the successful retirement of several project risks,” he said of the $211 million theatre complex.

Kachel said the focus will soon shift to foundations, with upcoming procurement including structural steel, mass timber, concrete, waterproofing, electrical systems, HVAC, plumbing and wall systems.

Councillors asked several questions about construction details, including one from Coun. Stephen Karpuk, who wondered where dirt from the excavation is going. Kachel replied that it’s being removed to several sites, including City landfills where it’s used for cover.

Kachel said he expected little impact but as construction costs become more certain, the City may adjust annual borrowing requirements, which could help reduce long-term debt-servicing costs.

He said savings could be used to reduce the overall cost. He also unveiled updated artist’s renderings of the building, which vary somewhat from earlier versions but retain the towering glass lobby area.