Sicamous council has budgeted $300,000 for a sculptural concept to adorn the future roundabout on Highway 97A.
The concept was presented at last week’s council meeting. Designed by McElhanney Consulting Services, and funded by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, the proposed roundabout sculpture includes a layered mix of rounded horizontal and vertical panels, animated by lighting.
Four variations of the concept were presented to council, varying with the materials proposed for use. Construction costs for each range between $305,000 and $410,000 (plus GST and 20 to 30 per cent contingency). Council chose the least expensive, which includes panels of corten- and brushed-stainless steel.
About half of the budgeted cost is slated to come from general revenue, while Mayor Terry Rysz is hopeful the remainder (if not all) will be funded through grant money or other opportunities.
“Even though we’ve got it in the budget, the resources could come through possibly a grant or an association or regional district,” said Rysz. “I’m not expecting it to cost the taxpayer of Sicamous the full $300,000.”