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Construction of a dual-hotel complex at the University of Saskatchewan is 12 months behind.
James Cook is manager of business opportunities with the University of Saskatchewan. He said the developer, P.R. Hotels Ltd., had expected to start construction of the 10-storey hotel complex around this time last year. He said the delay stems from challenges with getting the land zoned and serviced.
“It has taken us a little bit longer to get to where we are … but that’s all been completed and agreements are in place and they’re full steam ahead to get things going as soon as they can,” Cook said.
The 203-room complex will feature two hotels, a Holiday Inn Express and Staybridge Suites spread over two-acres. The building will also feature conference room space, mid-to-high-end rooms and apartment-style rooms with kitchens.
Breakfast facilities will be available for both hotels, and there are no plans for a hotel restaurant. Cook said catering services will be available through the hotel, and as far as permanent food services in the area they will come as development of the College Quarter progresses.
“There will be more development in that area and it is a mixed-use area and we expect there will be other restaurants and food services built in the area so that will all look after itself,” he said.
Cook said he expects the developer to apply for building permits right away. As far and he knows they are working on drawings right now and are proceeding full speed ahead with the project.
The College Quarter development consists of 146 acres bordered by College Drive, Preston Avenue, 14th Street and Cumberland Avenue.
The hotel complex will add to the university’s ability to bring in guest speakers and lecturers as well as give them more options to accommodate other schools in Saskatoon for sport tournaments and other events run in the city.
If ground is broken before the snow hits, Cook expects an 18-month construction of the complex before it opens in 2017.
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