A request for proposals released this week shows that Oak Bay Lodge is scheduled to be razed.
The new RFP from the Capital Regional Hospital District seeks a construction manager to “procure and manage the deconstruction and demolition of the existing buildings” on the 3.9-acre site at 2251 Cadboro Bay Rd.
The budget for the demolition is estimated at $1.4 million, and includes hazardous material removal.
It is likely the final end to any speculation about using the facility to house either the senior portion (over 55), or all, of the people currently sheltering in Victoria parks. B.C. Housing had already declined on pursuing the matter earlier this fall.
READ ALSO: B.C. Housing declines to pursue Oak Bay Lodge as shelter housing
A Dec. 9 CRHD staff report details the expected demolition and public consultation process.
“The demolition process will also run concurrently with the public engagement process and the pre-demolition hazardous materials assessment is already underway,” states the report.
The CRHD is in the process of planning that community consultation for early 2021, and will seek community feedback about on the future use of the Oak Bay Lodge site. The public engagement process will include significant notification to ensure that residents are informed of the opportunity for public input, said the CRD in a statement.
An environmental site assessment is also underway for the 50-year-old Oak Bay Lodge building with a report due this month. The demolition contract for Oak Bay Lodge is expected to be awarded in early 2021 and an application for the demolition permit made sometime in the first quarter of 2021.
“The successful construction manager will be responsible for engaging both the hazardous materials removal contractor and the demolition contractor,” says the report, as the demolition project will require permits through Oak Bay.
READ MORE: Oak Bay Lodge redevelopment continues, request for temporary use awaits answer
READ ALSO: Mayor not in favour of low barrier housing at Oak Bay Lodge
The CRHD will is launching a project website and hosting virtual open houses and small group meetings, plus physically distant pop-ups, beginning in January.
Last month Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps and Coun. Jeremy Loveday requested the province intervene and open at least a portion of Oak Bay Lodge to house people 55-over until demolition happens.
Do you have a story tip? Email: vnc.editorial@blackpress.ca.
Follow us on Twitter< and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
